Nine textile technicians at DP Dyers received in-depth training on a new colour weigh system at their facility in Huddersfield, with support from UKFT’s Young Textile Technician Fund.

DP Dyers, based in the heart of West Yorkshire, is one of the world’s leading commission piece dyers of natural and synthetic fibres for apparel and furnishing fabrics, catering to a wide range of materials. The company specialises in providing customised dyeing solutions for everything from commercial seating fabrics to the finest cashmere scarves, from polyester to vicuña.

The company’s managing director John Parry said: “Our dye plant relies on the skills and knowledge of our staff, running a labour-intensive colour weighing process. It’s a time consuming exercise that cuts into our productivity.”

DP Dyers recently installed a new digital colour weighing system from Adaptive Control Systems, which optimises, digitises and integrates a new colour weighing recipe management system. The new equipment streamlines the recipe formulation, chemical dispensing, check weighing and central system processes, explained John.

Adam Pursell, head dyer at DP Dyers said “There are only few businesses with this colour weigh system, it’s a revolutionary system install and we’re pleased to be one of the first to operate it in our region. Our technicians have transferrable skills that has equipped the business with the career knowledge needed in dyeing.”

When the system was installed, DP Dyers arranged for nine technicians to undertake the training modules, which were delivered in situ at the manufacturing facility in Huddersfield.

Adam “We’re always looking for ways in which we can better support our customer base, and ways that our staff can develop their skills. This system does both and has already demonstrated a return on investment.”

John added: “The feedback from them all has been very positive. They’re now adapting to the bar coding and colour weighing processes and we are seeing the difference in efficiency.”

Sam Williams, a dyehouse apprentice who received the training, said it was a vital stepping stone in his career. “I’m new to textiles and learning the ins and outs of the industry. I love working with the colour team and learning this new system. It was a chance for me to combine my love of textiles with my love of ICT, as this new programme is perfect for new industry entrants like me.”

Martin Jenkins, Director of Training at Textile Centre of Excellence (TCoE) visited DP Dyers to undertake a funding audit and conducted the interviews.

The Young Textile Technician Fund will cover 50% of the costs of in-depth training for young textile technicians, thanks to the generous support of The Worshipful Company of Weavers, The Worshipful Company of Clothworkers and The Worshipful Company of Drapers.

The Young Textile Technician Fund is now open to businesses applying to train textile technicians under the age of 35. To find out more, email katie.robinson@ukft.org

UKFT’S YOUNG TEXTILE TECHNICIAN FUND