The Nonwovens Cooperative Research Center (NCRC) at NC State University opened its new Partners Center of Excellence at a gala ribbon cutting and dinner on May 28, 2002. Dr. Behnam Pourdeyhimi was master of ceremonies and stated, "This new state-of-the-art Melt Spinning and Hydroentangling facility symbolizes and shows the resilience of the nonwovens industry not only in North Carolina but in the world". The new $12 million facility is the most comprehensive nonwovens and composite lab in the world.

Chancellor Marye Anne Fox and Vice Chancellor of Research and Graduate Studies, Charlie Moreland, cut the ribbon surrounding the new pilot facility.

NCRC Partners were recognized during the dinner and program. Nordson Fiber Systems was recognized for their contribution of the Meltspinning systems. Hills, Inc was recognized for the proprietary polymer distribution system that enables the melt spun fibers to be formed in bi-component cross sections. Innovent was recognized for the donation of a proprietary 3-dimensional forming drum. Fleissner was dually cited for their contribution of the AquaJet hydroentangling unit, as well as Sponsorship of the Grand Opening Event. Rockwell Automation participated in Partnering by supplying process control hardware and software including an umbrella control system for both meltspinning and hydroentangling. Russell Corp has supplied a Trutzschler card for the operation. PGI has donated a bi-component monofilament spinning range as well as a small spunbond tower for pre-screening of polymers. Finally, Freudenberg Nonwovens, NA made a significant cash donation to the NCRC Partners Center of Excellence. Cotton, Inc was the co-Sponsor of the Grand Opening Event. Approximately 170 industry, faculty and administration guests were present for the unveiling of the new Center.

The facility is near completion and 4 separate construction and electrical contractors are on site. Completion is expected by June 30, 2002. NCRC will debug and start up the processes over the following 6 to 8 weeks. The Hydroentanglement section will be available for trials in August and the Melt Spinning sections will be available for trials in September.

SELECT EACH PHOTO TO SEE LARGER VIEW.

(From Left to Right) Vice Chancellor of Research and Graduate Studies, Charlie Moreland; NCRC Director, Behnam Pourdeyhimi; NCSU Chancellor, Marye Anne Fox.	NCSU Chancellor Marye Anne Fox and Behnam Pourdeyhimi with NCRC Partners.
Grand Opening of NCRC Melt Spinning and Hydroentangling facility	NCRC Partners' Dinner in the College of Textiles Atrium.

Partners Center of Excellence
1017 Main Campus Drive
Centennial Campus
NC State University
Raleigh, North Carolina