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What are the different types of circular knitting machines?

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What are the different types of circular knitting machines?

You can find three main types of circular knitting machines. These are single knit, double knit, and electronic jacquard. Each type has special features. This makes them good for certain fabrics and uses. The worldwide market for these machines was USD 644 million in 2024. It is still growing slowly. Many businesses use these machines. They make things like T-shirts, sportswear, and medical textiles. The table below lists what each machine type is used for:

Machine Type

Common Applications

Single-face circular machines

New fabric styles, four-needle channel models

Double-face machines

More complex fabrics

Rib machines

Ribbed fabrics, sweaters

Jacquard machines

Intricate patterns, fashion and upholstery fabrics


Key Takeaways

  • There are three main types of circular knitting machines. These are single knit, double knit, and electronic jacquard. Each type is used for different kinds of fabric.

  • Single knit machines work well for light and stretchy fabrics. They are good for making T-shirts and sportswear. These machines are quick and work well for simple clothes.

  • Double knit machines make thicker and stronger fabrics. These fabrics are good for jackets and sweaters. The fabric keeps its shape and does not curl at the edges.

  • Electronic jacquard machines can make detailed patterns and designs. They are great for fashion and special textiles. These machines use automation and can be watched in real time.

  • When picking a knitting machine, think about the fabric you need. Also, look at how fast it works and how easy it is to take care of. This helps you choose the best one for your business.


10.Double Computerized Jacquard Circular Knitting Machine SCMJ双面电脑提花PNG


Types of Circular Knitting Machines

Circular knitting machines come in three main types. These are single knit, double knit, and electronic jacquard machines. Each type makes stitches in its own way. They also arrange knitting parts differently. This helps you pick the right machine for your needs.

These types are important for making most fabrics in the textile world. How each machine forms stitches and sets up needles changes how the fabric looks and feels.

Single Knit Machines Overview

Single knit circular knitting machines have one set of needles in a cylinder. These machines make fabrics with one side, like jersey and piqué. The design is simple. This makes them fast and good for basic clothes.

Here is a quick list of single knit machine types:

  1. Single jersey machines for plain knitting

  2. Two-track and four-track single jersey machines

  3. Terry knitting machines

  4. Jacquard single jersey circular knitting machines

Single knit machines work quickly. You can use them to make T-shirts, polo shirts, and sportswear. The fabrics are light and stretchy. The edges might curl up.

Machine Type

Structure

Fabric Properties

Pros

Cons

Used For

Single Jersey Knitting

Single Jersey

Simple knit, high output

Makes lots of basic clothes

Edges curl, not very stable

T-shirts, Polo shirts, activewear

Fleece Knitting

Single Jersey

Warm, brushed fabric

Makes fleece, keeps you warm

Fabric is heavier

Thermal wear, warm clothes

Single knit circular knitting machines come in many sizes. Cylinder diameters go from 3 to 60 inches. Gauges range from E18 to E40. You can make thin or thick fabrics. Most machines run up to 1,200 rpm. This means they work fast.

  • Good drive systems keep the machine steady.

  • Oiled parts and good lubrication make it quiet.

  • You can change parts to switch machine types.

Single jersey fabrics are great for sportswear, casual clothes, and underwear. Piqué fabrics are also made with these machines. They are popular for polo shirts.

Double Knit Machines Overview

Double knit circular knitting machines use two sets of needles. One set is in the cylinder. The other set is in the dial. This lets you make double-sided fabrics. These fabrics are thicker and stronger than single knits.

You will find these double knit machine types:

  1. Rib knitting machines

  2. Interlock knitting machines

  3. Pique circular knitting machines

Double knit machines make fabrics that stretch well both ways. You can use them for jackets, sweaters, and furniture covers. The fabrics do not curl. They keep their shape.

Feature

Single Jersey Machine

Double Jersey Machine

Needle Arrangement

One set (cylinder)

Two sets (cylinder and dial)

Fabric Structure

One side

Two sides

Thickness of Fabric

Thin and light

Thick and strong

Elasticity

Good one way

Great both ways

Speed

Fast

Medium or slow

Cost

Lower machine and yarn cost

Higher cost and more yarn used

Applications

T-shirts, underwear, sportswear

Jackets, sweaters, furniture covers

Fabric Curling

Yes

Little or none

Pattern Complexity

Simple patterns

Advanced rib and interlock

Dimensional Stability

Less stable, can change shape

More stable, keeps shape

Double knit circular knitting machines are used in many areas. You can use them for clothes, sportswear, coats, home items, and special textiles. Common things made are jackets, hoodies, skirts, dresses, and blankets.

Electronic Jacquard Machines Overview

Electronic jacquard circular knitting machines use computers to control them. You can make detailed patterns and designs with great accuracy. These machines make it easy to change patterns and colors.

Many workers like the easy controls and real-time checks. You can watch production and check quality with less work.

Feature/Feedback

Description

User-friendly interfaces

Easy to use and makes work better

Real-time monitoring capabilities

Lets you check quality and work faster

Energy-efficient operation

Uses less energy but still works well

Integration of IoT technology

Connects easily and automates tasks

Production of intricate patterns

Makes complex designs fast for modern fabrics

Versatility

Works well for many fabric types and uses

Software learning curve

Some people think the software is hard to learn

Maintenance issues

Fixing and caring for the machine can be tough for some

Electronic jacquard machines handle many threads at once. You can save lots of patterns and switch designs easily. The software lets you change patterns, colors, and where things go with care.

Here is how electronic jacquard machines help make complex designs:

  1. Automate making detailed patterns that used to need hand work.

  2. Use computer controls for exact and repeatable results.

  3. Work with many yarns and fabric types for fancy and useful textiles.

You will see these machines in fashion, furniture, and special textiles. They are perfect for making special, high-value fabrics.


Single Knit Circular Knitting Machine Varieties

Single Jersey Machines

The single jersey circular knitting machine is used a lot in textile factories. This machine has a central adjustment system. It lets you change the gauge fast and easily. You can make single jersey fabrics quickly and with good quality. Most single jersey machines are between 16 and 44 inches wide. The gauges go from 16 to 36G. You can pick machines with 3, 4, or 6 feeders for each inch. This depends on how much you want to make.

Here is a table that shows the main types of single jersey circular knitting machines you might use:

Machine Type

Key Features

Technological Data

Single Jersey Circular Knitting Machine

Central adjustment, easy gauge change, popular for single jersey fabric

16’’-44’’, 16-36G, 3/4/6F/Inch

Single Terry Circular Knitting Machine

Knits terry fabric, Lycra attachment for stretch towels

26’’-34’’, 18-24G, 2F/inch

Open Width Single Jersey Circular Knitting Machine

Uniform tightness, top fabric quality, no creases

26’’-44’’, 16-36G, 3F/Inch

Single Reverse Plated Loop Circular Knitting Machine

Knits plush fabrics, reversed and normal cams

26’’-34’’, 18-28G

A single jersey circular knitting machine usually has a gauge of 20 or thicker. The diameter is about 30 inches. It can make about 15 to 25 kilograms of fabric each day if the gauge is 28 to 32G. These machines help you make T-shirts, sportswear, and underwear fast.

Pique Machines

A pique circular knitting machine helps you make fabrics with special textures and patterns. You can use different yarns and stitches to make many kinds of pique fabrics. The table below shows the main types of pique fabrics and what they are used for:

Fabric Type

Characteristics

Typical Applications

Cotton Pique

Breathable, comfortable, classic look

Polo shirts, casual wear

Double Pique

Thicker, durable, retains texture

Long-lasting clothing

Stretch Pique

Flexible, includes spandex or Lycra

Activewear, fitted clothing

Polyester Pique

Lightweight, strong, wrinkle-resistant

Uniforms, activewear

Waffle Pique

Textured, breathable, good water absorption

Towels, bathrobes, light blankets

Jacquard Pique

Detailed patterns, high-end feel

Fashion apparel, upscale home decor

Micro Pique

Soft, lightweight, smooth texture

Comfortable clothing

You can use a single jersey circular knitting machine to make many of these pique fabrics. The machine lets you control how thick and textured the fabric is. This helps you make the right fabric for the product you want.

Weft Knitting Machine Features

A weft knitting machine makes loops from side to side. This is good for making T-shirt fabrics and knitted jackets. You can use a single jersey circular knitting machine to make plain, rib, purl, and interlock fabrics. Each one looks and feels different.

  • You can make shapes and panels like pockets and collars. Flatbed weft knitting machines are best for this.

  • The most common fabric is plain or single jersey. You see this in most T-shirts.

A weft knitting machine gives you lots of choices. You can make many kinds of clothes and home items with just one circular knitting machine.


Double Knit Circular Knitting Machines

Rib Machines

Many textile factories use rib machines. A rib circular knitting machine has two sets of needles. These needles make fabric with up-and-down ridges. The ridges help the fabric stretch a lot. Rib machines are good for making cuffs, collars, and waistbands. Rib fabric is soft and stretches easily. The front and back of the fabric look different. Clothes made with rib machines fit well and feel nice.

Here is a table that shows how rib machines and interlock machines are different:

Aspect

Rib Knitting Machine

Interlock Knitting Machine

Fabric Elasticity

Very high

Moderate

Fabric Thickness

Medium

Higher

Fabric Surface

Different front and back

Same on both sides

Primary Use

Cuffs, collars, waistbands

T-shirts, underwear, sportswear

Stability

Moderate

Excellent

Interlock Machines

An interlock circular knitting machine makes thick, smooth fabric. Interlock fabric looks the same on both sides. The edges do not curl up. Interlock machines use two sets of needles for double knitting. You can make T-shirts, underwear, and sportswear with these machines. Interlock fabric stretches well and keeps its shape better than rib fabric. Interlock fabric feels soft and strong.

  • Rib fabric has lines you can see, but interlock fabric is smooth on both sides.

  • Rib circular knitting machines use knit and purl stitches. Interlock machines use a double-knit way.

Common Double Knit Applications

Double jersey circular knitting machines make many kinds of clothes and home items. You can use them to make jackets, sweaters, skirts, and blankets. These fabrics keep their shape and do not curl. Double jersey machines are also good for sportswear and uniforms. The fabric is thick and warm. Double jersey machines make strong and steady fabrics for many uses.

Tip: If you want fabric that stretches a lot, pick a rib circular knitting machine. If you want fabric that keeps its shape and feels smooth, use a double jersey or interlock circular knitting machine.

Double knit circular knitting machines give you many ways to make good fabrics.


Electronic Jacquard and Specialty Circular Knitting Machines

Electronic Jacquard Machines

An electronic jacquard circular knitting machine can make detailed patterns and bright designs. This machine uses a computer to move the needles. You can change designs fast by updating the software. Many factories use these machines for fashion, furniture, and special fabrics.

These machines help you make hard patterns that are tough to knit by hand. You save time and make fewer mistakes. You can also use many yarns at the same time. This lets you make special fabrics for clothes, home items, and even cars.

New technology makes these machines easier and better to use. Here are some big improvements:

  • Automation and smart tech help you run the machine and need less work.

  • Real-time checks let you see fabric quality as you knit.

  • Energy-saving designs use less power and help the planet.

  • Digital tools connect machines for better work and less waste.

You can trust electronic jacquard machines for great results and flexible work.

Specialty Machines (Terry, Auto Striper)

Specialty circular knitting machines give you more ways to design fabric. The Floating Terry Jacquard Circular Knitting Machine is great for making fancy, high-quality fabrics. You can use this machine for special textiles in fashion and home items. The special way it knits adds texture and style to the fabric.

Auto striper machines help you make stripes without stopping the machine. You can change colors by itself. This makes it easy to make sportswear, socks, and cool T-shirts.

Here is a table that shows what specialty machines can do:

Machine Type

Main Feature

Common Uses

Floating Terry Jacquard

Intricate, textured fabrics

Fashion, home textiles

Auto Striper

Automatic color changes

Socks, sportswear, T-shirts

You can use circular knit machines to make many kinds of fabric. Specialty machines help you meet the needs of today’s fashion and home styles. The types and quality of fabrics from circular knitting machines keep getting better as technology grows.

Tip: If you want to make special or fancy fabrics, try a specialty circular knitting machine. You will find lots of creative options.


Comparison and Selection Guide for Types of Knitting Machines

Warp Knitting Machine vs. Weft Knitting Machine

There are two main knitting machines in factories. These are warp knitting machine and weft knitting machine. They work in different ways and make different fabrics. The table below shows how they are not the same:

Attribute

Warp Knitting Machine

Weft Knitting Machine

Flexibility

Needs synthetic yarns

Uses almost any yarn, even natural ones

Yarn Direction

Yarns run up and down (vertical)

Yarns run side to side (horizontal)

Stretch and Stability

Very stable, not much stretch

Very stretchy, less stable

Machinery and Production

Uses special machines, works very fast

Simpler machines, slower speed

Production Speed

Up to 1,200 rpm

20–60 rpm

Dimensional Stability

High

Moderate

Common Applications

Jerseys, mesh panels, compression wear

T-shirts, base layers, leggings

Warp knitting machine makes fabric that is strong and does not stretch much. You see these fabrics in sportswear and special clothes. Weft knitting machine makes fabric that is soft and stretches a lot. These are good for comfy and everyday clothes.

Note: Warp knitting machine makes fabric that keeps its shape. Weft knitting machine makes fabric that is soft and stretches.

How to Choose the Best Circular Knitting Machine

You should think about what you need before you pick a circular knitting machine. The table below can help you compare the main types:

Type of Machine

Advantages

Disadvantages

Best For

Single Jersey

High output, smooth surface, easy to use, great stretch

Only for lighter fabrics

T-shirts, underwear, sportswear

Double Jersey

Keeps shape, many designs, good for thick fabrics

Harder to run

Jackets, sweaters, blankets

Rib Circular

Very stretchy, reversible, good recovery

Only ribbed textures

Collars, cuffs, waistbands

When you choose, look at these things:

  • Stability: Pick a machine that does not shake. This helps you get better fabric and less machine trouble.

  • Production Efficiency: Fast machines make more fabric, but they must work well.

  • Versatility: Choose a machine that can make many styles and fabrics.

You also need to take care of your knitting machines. Clean and check them every day. Oil and look at them every week. Check all parts each month. Do a full service once a year. This keeps your machines working well and saves money.

Factories use many kinds of knitting machines. You will also see straight bar knitting machine and flat bar knitting machine in some places. These machines help you make flat shapes and panels. If you want to make flat fabric or shaped pieces, try a straight bar knitting machine or a flat bar knitting machine.

Tip: Think about what fabric you want to make. Check your budget and how much care the machine needs. This will help you pick the best knitting machines for your business.

You now know that each circular knitting machine is good for certain jobs. Single knit machines make fabric that is light and stretches. Double knit machines make fabric that is thick and holds its shape. Electronic jacquard machines can make fancy patterns. If you understand these differences, you can do things like make tube-shaped fabric fast, pick machines for special designs, and save money while making more fabric.

To choose the best machine, do these things: First, think about how much fabric you want to make. Next, decide what kinds of fabric you need. Then, look at how much the machine costs and how well it works. Also, try to find machines that can work by themselves.

Keep learning about new technology so your knitting business stays strong.


FAQ

What is the main difference between single knit and double knit machines?

Single knit machines have one set of needles. Double knit machines have two sets of needles. Single knit machines make fabric that is light and stretches. Double knit machines make fabric that is thick and strong.

Can you make patterns with all circular knitting machines?

Most machines can make easy patterns. If you want hard designs, you need an electronic jacquard machine. This machine uses a computer to make detailed patterns.

How do you choose the right circular knitting machine?

Think about what kind of fabric you want. You should also think about how fast you need to work and how much money you have. Use this table to help you pick:

Need

Best Machine Type

Light fabrics

Single knit

Thick fabrics

Double knit

Fancy designs

Electronic jacquard

Do circular knitting machines need a lot of maintenance?

You need to clean and oil your machine often. Check the parts every week. Taking care of your machine helps it last longer and work better.

What fabrics can you make with circular knitting machines?

You can use these machines to make T-shirts, sweaters, sportswear, and blankets. Some machines can also make towels, socks, and special patterned fabrics.

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