Principal warp knitting machine manufacturer Karl Mayer recently launched its latest RD 7/2-12 EL double needle bar raschel machine. The machine is the German company’s latest offering in the spacer fabric field and is suitable for the production of 3D knitted spacer fabrics for shoes, linings, orthopaedic bandages and supports, mattress covers, automotive interiors and furniture applications.
The RD 7/2-12 EL is available in gauges of E 18, 22 and 24 (needles per inch) and operates at a working width of 138 inches (3505 mm). The machine is based on the same principles as the RD 6/1-12 but has one guide bar more than its six-bar sister machine, enabling it to produce a wider range of patterns.
The RD 7/2-12 EL has two needle bars equipped with latch needles, two moveable knock-over stitch comb bars and seven ground guide bars. GB4 and GB5 are stitch forming on both needle bars and optionally GB3, GB4 and GB5 can be stitch forming on both needle bars.
The 2-12 in the RD 7/2-12 EL’s name refers to the range of spacer fabrics which can be produced, i.e. Fabrics of 2-12 mm thickness, which can be achieved via the moveable stitch comb bars. EL refers to the electronic control of the machine’s seven electronic guide bar drives.
Capable to run at a maximum speed of 425 RPM or 850 courses per minute and at a stitch density of 16 courses per cm, the specific model is equipped with Karl Mayer’s KAMCOS (Karl Mayer Command System) with Motion Control and Multi Speed for electronic control of basic functions and Pattern Control for electronic control of the ground guide bars.
