In an interview with TEXtalks, Andreas Raas, CEO of ZIMMER AUSRIA Digital Printing Systems shares insights into the company’s technological advancements, sustainability initiatives, and strategic vision for emerging markets such as Pakistan. Zimmer Austria, a global leader in textile and carpet finishing machinery, is known for its state-of-the-art systems in digital printing, rotary and flat screen printing, coating, steaming, washing, and drying. In conversation with TEXtalks, Andreas Raas discusses the company’s most recent innovations, its focus on sustainable production, and Zimmer’s expanding footprint in Asia.
TEXtalks: What are the most recent innovations that Zimmer Austria has introduced in its textile printing and finishing equipment?
Andreas Raas: Last year, we focused heavily on lowering energy and water consumption in our machinery. One of our newest innovations is the Superfix unit—a unique drying and fixation solution for digital printing on woven fabrics. It enables drying and fixing of pigment and disperse polyester prints while using up to 80% less energy than conventional dryers.We also upgraded our standard dryers with moisture-controlled exhaust systems and incorporated a heat recovery feature to economize the drying process. In our rotary screen printers, we’ve introduced a system to recover print paste from color distribution pipes, which is returned to the storage tanks. For cleaning, we now use a mole system that significantly reduces water consumption.
TEXtalks: What technological advancements does the Colaris digital printer offer
Andreas Raas: In recent years, we’ve made significant progress in pigment printing. Our latest systems include on-head pre-treatment technology, meaning the pre-treatment is printed simultaneously with the colored inks. This eliminates the need for separate fabric preparation, reducing chemical and water usage.This advancement achieves strong performance in crock fastness, wash fastness, and other durability factors. It also works not just on natural fibers but on man-made fabrics, giving us access to applications like military and camouflage textiles.
TEXtalks: How does Zimmer Austria customize its systems for diverse customer needs?
Andreas Raas: That’s a very important aspect of our work. Zimmer is a fully integrated machinery manufacturer, we build machines from the ground up at our own facilities. We control the entire process: mechanical components, software, hardware drivers for inkjet systems, and even printhead servicing.
We also maintain technology centers in Klagenfurt and Kufstein, where we can simulate new printing and finishing processes based on customer requirements. This setup allows us to test ideas, refine them, and bring them into real-world production, customized to the needs of each end-user.
TEXtalks: What steps is Zimmer Austria taking to strengthen its presence in emerging markets like Pakistan?
Andreas Raas: Emerging markets come with their own set of challenges, but Zimmer has been active in Pakistan for decades. We have a solid installation base here. What’s essential in markets like this is a strong, reliable local partner, and we’re fortunate to work with Al Ameen Trading Corporation, who represent our textile division in Pakistan. They’re well-trained and technically strong. We make sure they stay informed about every new development at Zimmer so they can provide real-time support to our customers.
TEXtalks: How do you view Pakistan’s role in the global textile industry?
Andreas Raas: Although Zimmer has been operating in Pakistan for a long time, this is my first visit, and I’m genuinely impressed. The production intensity, technical expertise, and professionalism I’ve seen in Pakistani mills are commendable. These qualities are key to Pakistan maintaining and even enhancing its global textile position. We contribute by offering strong after-sales service, quick spare parts delivery, and remote machine support from Austria. Considering the current global shifts in trade and tariffs, I believe Pakistan is in a position to gain, and we’re here to support that growth.
TEXtalks: What has the response been like at IGATEX?
Andreas Raas: It’s my first time attending IGATEX, and I’ve been positively surprised by both the number of visitors and the quality of interactions. Our collabora-tion with Al Ameen, along with other partner brands, has created a dynamic environment.
It’s been a productive experience, and I look forward to seeing the outcomes in the weeks ahead.
