Chomarat, a leader in technical textiles and composite reinforcements, is developing its Coatings & Films business at its French sites. The Group has just acquired an extruder and a graining line to increase its production capacities and develop new, more efficient solutions, particularly in the field of TPO (polyolefin thermoplastics).

These two technological investments are part of the EUR 35 million investment plan announced by the Group in mid-2017.

The graining line gives texture to the coated textile and provides a differentiation of appearance or a functionalization, such as non-slip or durability. “We will use this new technology to broaden the scope of material we process (including the production of TPO sheets with or without backing), and to improve the perceived quality by a better grain definition,” explained Philippe Chomarat, Director of the Coatings & Films business at Chomarat. “This technological investment enables the Group to increase its production capacities and offer new solutions for the automotive and luxury bag markets.”

The new extruder increases the Chomarat production capacity for coated textiles and allows production in larger widths. The technology consumes less energy and emits very low level of VOCs, in line with the Group's sustainable approach. It also supplements existing solutions for developing bio-sourced coated fabrics. “This is a strategic investment for Chomarat, as in addition to PVC, we will be able to work with new materials such as TPO, TPU and new bio-sourced materials. We will offer innovative solutions for all our markets – pipes, luxury bag, automotive and protection,” said Mr Chomarat.

Established in 1898, Chomarat is an international industrial textile group, involved in three businesses: Composites Reinforcements, Construction Reinforcements, Coatings & Films – Textiles. The company operates in France, Tunisia, the US and China to service its global customers. Chomarat offers strong technical know-how in fields ranging from automotive, aerospace, sports, energy, marine, construction, and also in markets requiring creativity and expertise, like luxury goods.

www.chomarat.com