#Knitting & Hosiery

2021-09-01

New tricot machine for the volume market

Thanks to its four-bar tricot machines, KARL MAYER offers a product family suitable for a wide range of applications. The highly flexible models produce elastic and non-elastic fabrics, can process various material combinations and work a wide variety of patterns. The use of an electronic guide bar control system offers even greater design possibilities, while machines with the appropriate configuration are also available for special requirements, such as the production of terry and pile fabrics.

The new TM 4-S expands KARL MAYER’s range of four-bar tricot machines

A new model has now been added to the wide range of four-bar machines available: the newcomer is called TM 4-S and is with its performance focused on the volume market. Its performance features include an exceptionally high speed – the maximum is 1,800 rpm – and a working width of 280?, which can be further extended by 10?. The TM 4-S therefore offers maximum productivity at an extremely attractive price, and the needle and guide bars were manufactured using proven carbon fibre technology to achieve high temperature stability and low weight.

The new development also relies on tried-and-tested operability and quality. The TM 4-S is extremely easy to handle thanks to KARL MAYER’s well-thought-out man-machine interface and meets the exacting requirements set by the Group of companies.

As with all models in the four-bar product family, the new machine covers an extremely diverse production spectrum. Lightweight silk net and lingerie articles can be converted just as easily and efficiently as raised velour fabrics, shoe fabrics, home textiles or even upholstery fabrics for the automotive sector.

The TM 4-S made its first public appearance as part of an in-house show at KARL MAYER (CHINA), which took place in June 2021 over the course of the ITMA ASIA + CITME. The performance demonstration for this rapid all-rounder was met with great interest here; numerous project meetings were held during the exhibition, thereby generating ideas for how to use the newcomer.

From the third quarter 2021, the TM 4-S will be sold. It is currently available in gauges E 28 and E 32, and the standard equipment includes a 4 x 32? beam frame.

The new RJ 4/2 EL revolutionizes body mapping and expands creative possibilities – from smart lingerie to sporty athleisure designs

With the addition of another member to its successful RASCHELTRONIC® family, KARL MAYER is opening up new possibilities for creative product development for warp knitting mills and brands. The RJ 4/2 EL offers with two stitch-forming Jacquard bars entirely new design options for functional sportswear and bi-elastic lingerie. Available in gauges E 28 and E 32, this new model helps manufacturers set their collections apart from the competition. The fine E-32 gauges, in particular, impress with their clean surface, a pleasantly soft feel, and an exceptionally elegant look.

The new RDJ 7/3 defines the design footprint of modern athletic shoes

Stylish, functional, and efficient to produce – spacer fabrics are the all-arounders among textile materials. These versatile fabrics are particularly in demand in the sports and casual footwear sector, as they combine comfort, breathability, and design freedom. At the same time, this industry is trend-driven, dynamic, and price-sensitive like few others. Innovations are therefore a decisive factor for success. With the RDJ 7/3, KARL MAYER offers a solution specifically tailored to these requirements. The particular strength of the new double raschel machine: its exceptional flexibility, thanks to its three jacquard bars.

SHIMA SEIKI brings new flat knitting technologies to FEBRATEX 2026

Leading flat knitting solutions provider SHIMA SEIKI MFG., LTD. of Wakayama, Japan, together with its Brazilian representative BRASTEMA TECNOLOGIA TEXTIL LTDA., will exhibit at the Brazilian Textile Industry Fair (FEBRATEX 2026) this month. On display will be a roundup of SHIMA SEIKI computerized flat knitting technology, represented by WHOLEGARMENT® knitting machines, computerized flat knitting machines featuring a brand-new model with high productivity and excellent cost performance, a glove knitting machine and the latest digital solutions.

More Jacquard. More functionality. More fashion.

Naia™ from Eastman strengthens western hemisphere textile connections at Apparel Sourcing Show Guatemala

As brands and retailers explore more diversified and responsive sourcing networks, the Naia™ brand from Eastman is strengthening its engagement with the textile and apparel value chain across the western hemisphere. From August 18–20, the company will participate for the first time in Apparel Sourcing Show Guatemala, a regional meeting point for apparel sourcing, manufacturing and nearshoring.

Dornbirn GFC 2026 expands conference program with new thematic sessions

For 65 years, Dornbirn GFC has stood for innovation and is one of the world’s leading conferences in the fiber industry. From September 16 to 18, 2026, the international fiber community will meet in Dornbirn, Austria, to discuss current trends, technological developments, and forward-looking solutions. More than 600 experts from industry and academia from over 30 countries are expected to attend. With around 100 presentations by renowned speakers, a 2,5-day conference program, and three parallel presentation rooms with moderated sessions, Dornbirn GFC provides a first-class platform for knowledge exchange, networking, and international collaboration. Together, participants will generate ideas and impulses that will sustainably shape the future of the global fiber industry.

Europe is committed to recycling end-of-life wind turbine blades

Starting in 2026, Europe’s wind energy industry has committed itself to ensuring that wind turbine blades do not end up in landfills once they reach the end of their service life. The EU-funded research project REWIND is exploring ways to reuse this composite waste. The German Institutes of Textile and Fiber Research Denkendorf (DITF) are one of 13 project partners from seven countries.

PERFORMANCE DAYS announces new focus topic & forums for October 2026

With its upcoming October 13–14, 2026 edition, PERFORMANCE DAYS is placing the spotlight on one of the textile industry’s most important transformations: “Bio-Based Materials – From Fiber to Fabric”, a two-part Focus Topic exploring the future of bio-based innovation across the textile value chain. Part 1, presented in October 2026, will focus on fibers and next-generation material developments, while Part 2 at the March 2027 edition will shift the perspective toward dyeing, finishing, additives, and processing technologies.