Single Jersey Circular Knitting Machine: The Backbone of Knitwear Production

Introduction

In the dynamic world of textile manufacturing, the Single Jersey Circular Knitting Machine holds a prominent position due to its versatility, speed, and efficiency. It is primarily used for producing lightweight and stretchable knitted fabrics, commonly found in t-shirts, undergarments, sportswear, and casual wear.

What is a Single Jersey Circular Knitting Machine?

A Single Jersey Circular Knitting Machine is a type of weft knitting machine that creates fabric using a single set of needles mounted on a circular cylinder. Unlike double jersey machines, it produces fabric with one face and one back side, typically having a smooth front (technical face) and a looped back (technical back).

Main Features

• Needle Type: Latch needles mounted in a cylinder.
• Cylinder Diameter: Ranges from 10 inches to 40 inches depending on fabric width.
• Gauge: Varies from 14G to 40G (needles per inch), depending on the required fabric density.
• Speed: Modern machines operate at high speeds, often over 20–30 RPM.
• Feeder: Multiple feeders (e.g., 90F, 108F) to increase productivity.

Working Principle

1. Yarn Feeding: Yarn is fed through feeders positioned around the circumference of the cylinder.
2. Loop Formation: Latch needles rotate and knit the yarn into loops.
3. Stitch Formation: As the machine rotates, loops interlock to form continuous fabric.
4. Take-Down System: The fabric is pulled downward and wound onto a roll.

Types of Fabrics Produced

• Plain Single Jersey
• Piqué Knit
• Lacoste Knit
• Striped or Auto Striper Jersey
• Slub Jersey

Advantages

• High production rate.
• Easy to operate and maintain.
• Versatile in fabric design with attachments.
• Low energy consumption.
• Suitable for both natural and synthetic fibers.

Common Applications

• T-shirts
• Sportswear
• Undergarments
• Fashion apparel
• Baby wear

Maintenance Tips

• Regular lubrication of moving parts.
• Periodic cleaning to remove lint and dust.
• Timely replacement of worn-out needles and sinkers.
• Calibration of feeders and yarn tension devices.

Conclusion

The Single Jersey Circular Knitting Machine is a staple in the knitwear industry, offering an efficient, cost-effective, and flexible solution for high-quality fabric production. As the demand for comfortable and stylish clothing continues to grow, these machines remain indispensable in modern textile mills.