At INDEX 2026, Reifenhäuser Reicofil will present its latest developments for the nonwovens industry under the guiding themes “Grow Together”, “Expand Together” and “Transform Together”. On this occasion, the leading manufacturer of nonwoven machinery will be unveiling two brand-new technology advancements – RF 5.10 upgrade and RF Core – at the show.
Grow Together: Optimizing Performance in Established Markets
Under the theme “Grow Together”, Reicofil will present new technologies that take output, quality and operational reliability to a whole new level in already existing applications.
More than 10 Percent Higher Output and Improved Quality
With the new RF 5.10 upgrade, Reicofil further advances its established RF5 flagship technology platform. The upgrade enables at least 10 percent higher output, significantly improving profitability. In addition, RF 5.10 enhances nonwoven laydown quality and improves production quality. This minimizes contamination of the line, reduces cleaning requirements, and increases machine uptime. The upgrade is available both as a retrofit solution for installed Reicofil lines and for new systems.
RF Core: Standardized Entry-Level Solution Based on RF4 Technology
Reicofil will also introduce the new RF Core platform, a highly standardized RF4-based SS(MM)S 3200 mm entry-level line. This line configuration enables cost-effective production of high-quality nonwovens while combining low investment costs, high production performance, and easy operation. The platform is aimed at manufacturers seeking an economically attractive entry into nonwovens production while benefiting from proven RF4 quality and process technology – more accessible than ever.
RF Smart Assistants: Digital Support for Stable and Efficient Operations
In response to skilled labor shortages and increasing operational complexity, Reicofil is presenting two new digital RF Smart Assistants. The S2P Assistant (Start-to-Production Assistant) automates the critical
production phases – from a stable start-up process to full-speed production. The software standardizes workflows and automatically executes complex machine settings in parallel. This reduces ramp-up times, improves process stability and product quality, and enables reproducible production results.
At the same time, valuable process know-how is digitally stored and made accessible to all operators, independent of individual experience levels. The Smart Alarm Manager introduces intelligent alarm prioritization and guides operators’ attention toward critical events. An integrated AI chatbot based on Reifenhäuser NEXT.AI technology provides real-time support using knowledge from engineering, service, maintenance and process technology. Operators receive actionable recommendations directly via the chatbot interface, enabling faster troubleshooting, reduced downtime and easier operation – particularly for less experienced staff.
Expand Together: Unlocking New Market Segments on Proven Platforms
Under the theme “Expand Together”, Reicofil will present customer-specific add-on technologies that enable manufacturers to enter specialized application markets using existing assets.
One example is upgrading existing RF5 BiCo production assets to unlock XHL production capability and expand the product portfolio. XHL (Extra High Loft) technology enables exceptionally soft, bulky and drapeable nonwovens, primarily targeting hygiene applications such as diapers. The technology is based on the proven Reicofil BiCo spunbond process, combining two materials in one fiber to create highly crimped fibers with reduced fiber diameter. This enables nonwovens with up to 30 percent more thickness while simultaneously improving softness, drapeability and abrasion resistance. At the same time, XHL technology supports more sustainable production. The process reduces raw material consumption
through finer fiber diameters, enables inline recyclability using mono-PP materials and lowers energy demand by eliminating hot-air bonding.
Next Level of Wipes: Reicofil MPM
The new MPM (meltblown-pulp-meltblown) technology from Reicofil is setting new benchmarks for the production of wet wipes. With its compact machine design, the MPM line requires significantly less building investment compared to competing technologies, while also offering lower machine investment costs. Reicofil’s MPM technology delivers the best pulp dispersion available on the market, ensuring outstanding product quality.
Furthermore, the process allows flexible incorporation of additives as needed, empowering manufacturers to customize product properties to meet specific performance goals. Reicofil showcases the economic and technical advantages of the MPM process and its potential to redefine standards in the wipes industry.
Transform Together: Reinventing What Filaments Can Become
Under “Transform Together”, Reicofil will also provide insights into new application areas for filament-based technologies beyond traditional nonwoven markets. Together with partners, the company is developing solutions that process a broad range of materials including polymers, ceramics or proteins – into innovative filament-based products. The “Spin your ideas” portfolio demonstrates the innovative potential created through strong partnerships.