As the demand for lighter, smarter, and more adaptable electronic systems continues to grow, textile-based circuit technologies are changing what’s possible in design and engineering. At NEL Technologies, innovation sits at the heart of everything we do and one of our most exciting advancements is Neltex®. A patented fabric-based circuit technology that bridges the gap between electronics and textiles. So, what is Neltex® and how does it work? Let’s take a closer look at how our unique technology transforms conventional fabrics into high-performance, multifunctional electronic solutions.
Defining Neltex®
Neltex® is a fabric-based circuit technology developed exclusively by us here at NEL Technologies. It enables standard textiles to be turned into functioning electronic assemblies. Incorporating circuits, heaters, sensors, or switches directly within the fabric itself.
Rather than relying on rigid printed circuit boards, Neltex® allows designers to embed functionality into a flexible, lightweight substrate. The result is a genuine textile solution that combines the durability and flexibility of fabric with the intelligence of modern electronics.
As our Neltex® product page explains, this technology has applications across a wide range of sectors including consumer electronics, healthcare, communications, defence, and wearable technology. All benefiting from its lightweight design and versatile performance.
How Does Neltex® Work?
Fabric as a Functional Substrate
At the core of Neltex® is the use of a textile substrate, a specially chosen fabric that serves as the base layer. Onto or within this layer, conductive materials are integrated to create circuits capable of carrying power or data. These conductors can be metallic traces, conductive yarns, or printed inks, all tailored to the electrical and mechanical requirements of the final design.
Integration of Electronics
What makes Neltex® truly innovative is its ability to integrate electronic functionality without compromising the flexibility of the fabric. Circuits are incorporated directly into the textile structure, allowing the finished assembly to bend, stretch, and conform to complex shapes. This approach removes the need for traditional rigid boards, enabling electronics to exist within wearable, form-fitting, or curved surfaces.
Heating, Sensing, and Switching
Depending on its configuration, Neltex® can act as a heater, sensor, or switching component, or a combination of all three. For example, a heating layer can be created by designing resistive pathways through the conductive fabric, while sensing elements can monitor parameters such as temperature, pressure, or strain. This adaptability makes Neltex® a perfect fit for smart textiles, wearable devices, and temperature-controlled systems.
Manufacturing Precision
As specialists in flexible heaters and thermal management, NEL Technologies applies decades of engineering expertise to every Neltex® design. Each project is carefully modelled in CAD, with conductive paths, resistive zones, and connection points customised to the client’s requirements. The result is a precision-engineered fabric assembly that performs reliably in even the most demanding environments.
The Advantages of Neltex®
- True Flexibility – Because the circuit is built directly into a fabric, Neltex® assemblies can flex, fold, and move with the product they’re part of. This makes them ideal for garments, curved housings, and lightweight structures.
- Lightweight and Compact – Textile circuits remove the bulk and rigidity of traditional electronics, offering a far lighter alternative that’s easier to integrate into compact systems or portable devices.
- Seamless Integration – Neltex® can be stitched, laminated, or bonded using standard textile manufacturing methods. This compatibility makes it perfect for wearable electronics or applications where aesthetics and comfort are just as important as performance.
Customisable and Scalable
Every Neltex® design is bespoke. Whether you need multiple heating zones, complex sensor arrays, or unusual shapes, NEL Technologies can adapt the design to suit your exact needs, from prototype to full production.
Multi-Functional Capability
A single Neltex® fabric can incorporate several features simultaneously. Such as heating, sensing, and switching, all within one lightweight assembly. This multifunctionality makes it a cost-effective and space-efficient solution for modern product development.
Applications of Neltex®
The versatility of Neltex® means it’s used across a wide range of industries:
- Wearable Technology – Jackets, gloves, or medical garments that include embedded heating or sensing elements.
- Medical and Healthcare – Smart garments, warming blankets, or diagnostic equipment where comfort and temperature control are vital.
- Aerospace and Defence – Lightweight, durable heating and sensor fabrics used in aircraft, satellite systems, or wearable defence gear.
- Industrial Equipment – Temperature monitoring and control in complex or curved machinery where rigid components aren’t suitable.
- Consumer Electronics – Integration of electronic features into flexible or textile-based enclosures.
By enabling electronic functionality to exist in fabric form, Neltex® gives designers and engineers the freedom to create products that are lighter, more adaptable, and more efficient.
Design Considerations and Best Practice
When developing a Neltex® solution, NEL Technologies considers every detail, from thermal mapping to material compatibility. The following best practices ensure performance and reliability:
- Thermal and Electrical Design: Power distribution, resistance, and circuit geometry are engineered for safety and efficiency.
- Material Selection: The correct textile, insulation, and conductive materials are chosen based on flexibility, temperature range, and environmental exposure.
- Connection Interfaces: Fabric-based circuits transition seamlessly to connectors, cables, or system components through carefully designed interfaces.
- Durability and Testing: Each assembly undergoes extensive testing for electrical integrity, thermal performance, and long-term reliability.
Our team at NEL Technologies works closely with customers to ensure that every Neltex® solution meets not only technical requirements but also regulatory and manufacturing standards.
Why Choose NEL Technologies?
As the creator and sole supplier of Neltex®, NEL Technologies combines over 35 years of experience in precision manufacturing, flexible heater design, and advanced materials engineering. We provide full turnkey support, from concept and CAD design through to assembly, testing, and delivery.
Our expertise in thermal management and flexible circuitry allows us to develop integrated, high-performance fabric-based solutions that redefine what’s possible in electronics.
Whether you’re developing a new wearable device, aerospace component, or medical product, partnering with NEL Technologies ensures you receive a reliable, proven, and innovative solution built around your needs.
So, what is Neltex® and how does it work?
It’s a breakthrough in electronic design. A fabric-based circuit technology that turns everyday textiles into advanced electronic systems. By integrating conductive pathways, sensors, and heaters directly into the fabric, Neltex® combines the flexibility of textiles with the intelligence of modern electronics.
From wearable technology and medical applications to defence and industrial innovation, Neltex® is redefining what’s possible in smart design. To find out more or discuss your next project, visit www.nel-ltd.co.uk/neltex/ and contact the team at NEL Technologies.