GERMANY
Büfa Cleaning Systems, the Germany-based chemicals manufacturer, has introduced its new wet cleaning system. Büfa claims that Care 4.0 will allow a wide range of textiles to be cleaned in one load – for example, outerwear, such as suits with a high wool component or challenging cashmere articles, high-quality delicate clothes and linen from care or nursing homes, table and kitchen linen as well as staff uniforms from hotels and duvets.
The operating schedule is considerably simplified and the overall process time is reduced to just 60 minutes. Pre-sorting of material by composition or weight of textile is no longer necessary as an operator needs only sort into light coloured and dark coloured items.
Büfa Care 4.0 is a combination of an optimal cleaning and drying process with special designed products. It is based on four key products: Ozerna Polar as a powerful liquid colour detergent; Lizerna Carat as a new developed refiner; Lizerna Citro as a neutraliser; and Lizerna Conditioner as a high-performing finishing agent.
These additives result in 30% less product consumption and minimisation of the process time, said Pamela Krix from the R&D department of Büfa. Even challenging or delicate textiles are cleaned, gentle dried and finished with less effort within one hour. The entire programme cycle is oriented to maximum protection of the textiles. The drum stands still as the water runs in: the protective function of Lizerna Carat is already active when the mechanical processing starts. The reduction of water and agents coupled with short, high mechanical activity allows a very good washing effect. The mechanical washing activity is set at five seconds movement and 25 seconds rest. When the water runs out, the drum remains still. This ensures high fibre protection. In order to reduce the mechanical activity in the dryer and achieve short drying times, spinning takes place at highest possible speeds.
“We improved not only the cleaning performance but also the protection against shrinkage, felting, colour loss and wrinkle formation,” said Krix. “Damages of the textile fibres, of the forming and of the colours are virtually eliminated. This new process will convince everybody.”