The $3.3 million project is intended to meet the growing demand for more complex and precise colorations, enhanced product performance and improved environmental efficiency, according to the company.

The package dye process is a computer-controlled system which provides an extensive range of evenly colored yarns. Accurate color matches can be repeated. Also, shorter dyeing cycles means less fiber degradation.

Each vat can be loaded with exactly the amount of yarn needed and vats can be linked together to produce larger quantities of a single color. Thus batch sizes can range from as little as 5 pounds to as much as 4,500 pounds.

The new plant is also environmentally sound, using less water and energy than other dye methods, the company says.