Barmag Released Three Retrofit Automation Systems
Spinning plant operators can now automate critical maintenance tasks to boost efficiency and reduce manual labor.
Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Manufacturing
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Barmag has launched three retrofit automation systems for spinneret cleaning, knife sharpening, and spinpack handling. These modular tools allow operators to upgrade existing production equipment to improve safety and lower operating costs.
Why it matters
The new systems allow facility managers to implement selective automation on legacy hardware, reducing the need for manual intervention and improving operational output without requiring a total plant overhaul.
The automation upgrades delivered a 51% increase in spinneret service life and a 53% reduction in cleaning cycles compared to previous manual processes. These systems are designed for integration into plants operated by the company, which became part of the Rieter Group in 2026.
The players
Barmag
A developer of spinning plant technology and production equipment now integrated into the Rieter Group.
Rieter Group
A Swiss-based industrial supplier specializing in systems for manufacturing yarn from staple fibers.
The details
The suite includes a wiping robot to manage spinneret cleaning, which also cuts silicone oil consumption. The automated knife sharpening system maintains scraper blades for better precision, while the mobile electric spinpack changer allows for safe, torque-defined installation of heavy components. These upgrades can be retrofitted directly into existing production lines.
Timeline
2026: Barmag became part of Switzerland's Rieter Group.
Market Landscape
This release follows the 2026 acquisition of Barmag by the Rieter Group, signaling a focus on scaling proprietary automation technologies across an established manufacturing footprint. The shift toward selective, modular retrofitting reflects a broader trend among equipment makers to extend the utility of older production assets.
Plant managers should evaluate whether their existing spinning lines can accommodate these specific retrofit tools to reduce manual safety risks and maintenance downtime. Monitor cleaning cycle intervals and take-up efficiency metrics to determine if the capital expenditure matches your current volume output.
The takeaway
Selective automation can significantly extend the operational life of legacy machinery while reducing recurring maintenance costs. Operators should audit their current spinpack handling and blade sharpening processes to determine if these specific retrofits offer a clear path to increasing bobbin rates.
Further reading
For more on industry technology, explore our Manufacturing section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Innovation in Textiles.
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