Camouflage has always played a major role in military operations. This is becoming increasingly difficult with the use of technical detection aids. It is therefore no longer possible to rely solely on camouflage patterns, many of which were developed before or during World War II. Today not only the design and colouration matter, but more camouflage elements are required. The use of a night vision device will destroy a camouflage which is good in daylight. This is where the corresponding infrared (IR) signature becomes a must. Setting an exact IR reflection corridor for each individual colour within a design is a basic requirement for good camouflage during the day, at twilight or at full night darkness.

Camouflage is not the only challenge. Due to the variety of textiles used in combat operations, multitude functionalisation’s are applied to meet the requirements.

Final products can be combat suits, rain protection, bullet proof vests, ponchos, protective gears for NBC (nuclear, biological, or chemical warfare), nettings to hide technical equipment, tents, carrying systems, parachutes, webbings or hook and loop (quick-fix-and-release batches) just to mention some of the major use cases. Especially for wearables such as combat suits or rain protection, the comfort and functionality are largely on a par with high-tech sportswear, except that they also must withstand much tougher mission requirements.

Zimmer Austria: Partner to the Industry from Early Years of Modern Camouflage

The base for volume production of modern camouflage printing was laid by the development of the rotary screen-printing system, which was introduced by ZIMMER AUSTRIA in in 1955. Already in the early 1960s ZIMMER AUSTRIA was involved in support to the textile production for military applications. From experience over a period of more than six decades, it was clear that ZIMMER’s mission is to involve themselves into present as well as future demand in military textile production.

R&D Services: Highly Advanced Technology Centres in Austria

The foundation stone for the future-oriented camouflage technology is laid at ZIMMER AUSTRIA’s innovation hubs, which are embedded in the middle of the picturesque mountain scenery of Tyrol and another one in the lake district Carinthia. State-of-the-art laboratory equipment and a group of highly motivated and dedicated specialists from the fields of chemistry, mechanics, electronics, and software development enable ZIMMER AUSTRIA to be and remain the pioneering partner for technical textile producers including manufacturing of such dedicated products like the military applications.

Not only the developments are made in Austria, but also customised R&D and continued support for specialised solutions in close cooperation with the industry, handled under strict confidentiality agreements, are a daily routine for the Austrian pioneers in printing and finishing. This makes ZIMMER AUSTRIA the preferred supplier of machinery for printing, coating and finishing including such distinctive products like military textile.

COLARIS Digital Inkjet Printing System: The Game-Changer in Stealth Camouflage Technology

COLARIS was initially developed as a digital textile printer. Increasing demand by customers for large repeats in designs and shorter production runs, which are both hurdles for economical production with conventional printing systems, have brought another innovation. The demand of new camouflage designs, increased number of colours within a design and most of all repeat size requirements have triggered a further upgrade to the COLARIS Digital Inkjet Printer Family which enhances stealth and concealment for military applications through key features like digital IR-reflectance control and the ability to print on textiles up to 5 metres wide. This enables the creation of vast, uninterrupted patterns, crucial for effective camouflage.

What sets the COLARIS system apart is its unique ability to generate randomised, continuously evolving patterns automatically, closely imitating the unpredictable nature of the surrounding environment. This innovation significantly complicates detection efforts by technical aids enhancing stealth capabilities of military forces.

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Each textile piece produced by COLARIS can be individualised, with the absence of repeat patterns that could potentially reveal or track military assets. The development of COLARIS reflects a proactive approach towards the ever-increasing demands of military stealth technology. As surveillance and detection methods improve, there is a growing need for more sophisticated concealment solutions. ZIMMER AUSTRIA’s forward-thinking in creating the COLARIS system demonstrates a commitment to maintaining a competitive edge in operational stealth and camouflage.

In summary, COLARIS by ZIMMER AUSTRIA is more than a technological breakthrough; it is a strategic enhancement for military operations. It is a step forward in the ability of armed forces to remain undetected. It is a clear statement for ZIMMER AUSTRIA’s role as a leader in military textile innovation.

ROTASCREEN: The Apex of Camouflage Pattern Creation

At the forefront of ZIMMER AUSTRIA’s offerings is the ROTASCREEN screen printing system, an early step into volume production of camouflage patterns, offering precise reproducibility. Rotary screen-printing machines with the magnetic application system have revolutionised handling a vast spectrum of dyes and chemical additives to produce textiles that not only blend seamlessly with various surroundings but also withstand the tough conditions required by combat environments.

The ROTASCREEN system’s versatility is unmatched, accommodating an extensive range of textile materials. Whether it is lightweight fabrics for parachutes or robust materials for equipment covers, ROTASCREEN ensures optimal results, tailored to meet the diverse requirements of different military contexts. Moreover, its design emphasises high-volume production, making it an essential asset for military suppliers who must meet large orders without compromising on the details of camouflage patterns.

MAGNOROLL: Elevating Textile Functionality

Complementing the ROTASCREEN and COLARIS printing technologies, the MAGNOROLL system introduces advanced coating and finishing techniques that enhance the functional properties of camouflage textiles. This system allows for the application of various finishes such as waterproofing, UV protection, flame retardancy, thermal shielding and more—each crucial for maintaining the integrity and effectiveness of military textiles under diverse operational conditions.

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MAGNOROLL’s precision in applying coatings guarantees consistent coverage, essential to retain the fabric’s comfort and breathability while improving its protective features. It represents a fusion of innovation and adaptability, to meet specific military needs, from thermal radiation shielding to antimicrobial finishes, thus broadening the scope of military textile applications.

The Future of Military Camouflage Textiles

The integration of ZIMMER AUSTRIA’s ROTASCREEN, MAGNOROLL, and COLARIS can address all the stringent requirements of textiles used in modern military operations and offer solutions that are not only innovative but also practical and efficient.

The ROTASCREEN, MAGNOROLL, and COLARIS systems provide the precision, versatility, and efficiency necessary to produce textiles that not only conceal but also protect, ensuring that military forces have the advantage in a variety of operational environments. As the landscape of military operations changes, the importance of advanced textile solutions will continue to grow, highlighting ZIMMER AUSTRIA’s innovative solutions in shaping the future of military camouflage technology.