Case Study
Company:
University of Sheffield Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC)
Contact Name:
Mr Thomas Saxby
Position:
Technical Lead (Dry Fibre)
What challenge or need were you facing that led you to work with Cygnet Texkimp?
At the AMRC, we had invested in a Staubli Unival Jacquard 3D weaving loom as part of our advanced composites research programme. To operate the loom effectively, we required a creel system that could not only accommodate the number of ends needed but also ensure reliable tension and compatibility with the machine’s technical requirements. Off-the-shelf solutions were limited, so we needed a partner who could provide a bespoke, high-quality creel system tailored to our research needs. The AMRC identified Cygnet Texkimp as a company who could build a bespoke creel set capable of doing what we needed.
Why did you choose Cygnet Texkimp and its technical solution?
We chose Cygnet Texkimp because of their proven expertise in fibre handling and creel technology, as well as their willingness to work closely with us to understand our requirements. They were able to design and deliver a creel system that was fully compatible with the Staubli Unival Jacquard loom, giving us the confidence that the setup would perform reliably and support the advanced textile research we are undertaking.
How did you find the experience of working with our sales and engineering teams?
Our experience working with Cygnet Texkimp’s sales and engineering teams was extremely positive. They took the time to understand our technical requirements in detail and maintained clear communication throughout the process. The engineering team were responsive and knowledgeable, ensuring the creel system was designed and delivered to meet the specific needs of our Staubli Jacquard loom.
Where is the equipment being used, and who benefits from it?
The creels are housed at our Rotherham-based AMRC facility in the composites centre and feed fibre into our Staubli Unival Jacquard 3D weaving loom. The person managing the loom and creels is Chris McHugh, Dry Fibre Development Manager, alongside a growing team of engineers specialising in dry fibre processing technologies.
The AMRC supports a wide range of industrial sectors and UK businesses, ranging from Small and Medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to large multi-national companies.
What difference has the equipment made – any measurable results or improvements, any comparisons to be drawn with other systems or products you have used or evaluated?
The creels are housed at our Rotherham-based AMRC facility in the composites centre and feed fibre into our Staubli Unival Jacquard 3D weaving loom. The person managing the loom and creels is Chris McHugh, Dry Fibre Development Manager, alongside a growing team of engineers specialising in dry fibre processing technologies.
The AMRC supports a wide range of industrial sectors and UK businesses, ranging from Small and Medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to large multi-national companies.
What’s next, and would you work with Cygnet Texkimp again?
Based on our experience with Cygnet Texkimp, the AMRC would be happy to discuss working with the company again on future composite related projects. As well as the creels for the 3D weaving loom, we have used Cygnet’s products in other areas, such as the thermoplastic tape cell.




