Annual technical and marketing event to attract leaders in the global needlepunch business

CARY, NC — January 19, 2009 — Market trends, new equipment, the latest technologies and green manufacturing processes will highlight the seminar program at the Needlepunch 2009 International Conference, scheduled for March 24-26, 2009 at the Marriott Grande Dunes in Myrtle Beach, SC.

The three-day conference will attract leaders in all aspects of needlepunching, including raw material and equipment suppliers as well as converters and end users. Ample time for both formal and informal networking opportunities will make Needlepunch 2009 the premier event for this industry of the year.

Technical sessions during Needlepunch 2009 will focus on a range of topics vital to manufacturers and end users. Among the sessions are New Equipment/ Technology, Competitive Technologies, Military Applications, Flame Retardancy, Acoustics/Insulation, Medical and Filtration.

In addition, a topical section focusing on Green/Energy Reduction will explore options and opportunities in developing sustainable products and processes. Moderated by Gale Shipley, of PGI Nonwovens, presentations in the session include “Demand Side of Alternative Energy Opportunities,” by Tom Hamilton, CedarGreen & Associates; “Nonwovens: Office Environment,” by Dennis Beard, Compression Tech; and “What Does ‘Green Building’ Mean to Manufacturers of Nonwoven Fabrics?,” by Bae-Won Koh, AIA, LEED AP, Innovative Design, Inc.

Among the other highlights of Needlepunch 2009:

• A special keynote address on “Low Tech Innovations” will be presented by designer and inventor Liora Manné. She will speak on the combination of artistic creativity and needlepunch technology that is producing cutting-edge products ranging from rugs and placemats to handbags and jewelry. The keynote lunch is sponsored by American Truetzschler Nonwovens, Dilo Inc., NSC Nonwoven and Oerlikon Neumag-Carding Division.
• A Needlepunch Tutorial will be led by Edward A. Vaughn, Professor Emeritus, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Clemson University. Dr. Vaughn will teach the basics of needlepunching technology and products in an entertaining, informative atmosphere.
• INDA Table-Tops will provide attendees with the opportunity to meet with corporate and university representatives at the INDA table-top display. The latest and greatest in needlepunch fabrics, raw materials and machinery will be on display.
• The Foster Needle “Cheddarhead 2009” Reception is open to all attendees to enjoy the finest Wisconsin beer, brats and cheeses. Cheddarhead is a Needlepunch tradition.
• The Groz-Beckert Cocktail Reception will provide time for fun and great conversations, another important Needlepunch tradition.

For more information: http://www.inda.org/events/np09/