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A complete garment knitting machine able to knit ultrafine gauge garments more than twice as fast as previous models has been launched by Shima Seiki.
The MACH2X153 18L machine is the latest addition to the company’s MACH2X series. It features a special large-hook version of Shima Seiki’s SlideNeedle mounted on four needlebeds at 18-gauge needle pitch, which effectively yields very tight, high-grade 15-gauge texture fabrics.
Being able to produce ultrafine gauge knitwear using a Wholegarment machine has particular benefits as labour required for linking and sewing such fine gauge items is specialised and would have difficulty matching the speed, quality and consistency with which garments can be produced by the 18L model, according to Shima Seiki.
Productivity is on par with other MACH2X machines, with a maximum speed of 1.6 metres/second and Shima Seiki’s Rapid Response R2CARRIAGE for quicker carriage returns after each course.
In order to keep up with the increased speed, Shima Seiki’s famous i-DSCS Digital Stitch Control System with Intelligence has been upgraded to a new system - i-DSCS+DTC, featuring Dynamic Tension Control. i-DSCS+DTC permits variable electronic control of yarn tension, thereby supporting high-speed knitting of delicate yarns to reduce the chance of yarn breaks, said the company.
Other new features of the MACH2X153 18L include a yarn gripper and cutter system equipped with a new lint remover for reduced maintenance. A USB interface has been positioned directly below the control monitor for improved access in data exchange and the network connector has been repositioned to improve access for factory data management with Shima Network Solutions. The fabric collection tray has also been integrated within the machine frame, saving space.
Shima Seiki began shipment of MACH2X153 18L in January and has been exhibiting the machine at private shows in various markets.
05 March, 2010 by admin