#ITMA-Asia + CITME-2014

2014-07-23

The HKS 2-M, with an optimised cost:benefit ratio, is premiered

The HKS 2-M on the visitor’s focus at ITMA ASIA + CITME 2014 in Shanghai

Two-bar, high-speed tricot machines can now produce plain warp-knitted textiles even more efficiently. KARL MAYER launched the HKS 2-M onto the market at this year’s ITMA ASIA + CITME fair in June, thus presenting a machine that is roughly 20% faster than its predecessor.

At a working width of 180", the HKS 2-M can reach maximum speeds of 3,200 min-1. The version with a width of 210", which can operate at up to 3,000 min-1, is setting new standards. This increase in speed has been achieved by optimising the knitting motion and making the bars even lighter.

The HKS 2-SE is one of the models equipped with lighter knitting elements and was unveiled at the ShanghaiTex trade fair last year. In addition to increasing the speed, KARL MAYER’s engineers also focused on reducing the cost. Thanks to a number of clever modifications to the construction, the HKS 2-M is being offered at an attractive price. The 210"-wide machine is likely to be particularly well received by the market, thanks to its perfect cost:benefit ratio.

This flexible, medium-stroke machine is especially suitable for producing non-stretch fabrics with a low stitch number, loose yarn running, and gauges of up to E 32. These mainly include technical and semi-technical textiles, for example, mattress covers, velour fabrics for the furniture industry, nets, sports goods, shoe fabrics and printing grounds. But tulle, stylish, open mesh fabrics and plain fabrics for the clothing sector can also be produced on the HKS 2-M.

This all-round machine is also user friendly and operates reliably and accurately. This is due to its well-thought-out construction and its tried-and-tested components, such as the KAMCOS® computer platform, electronic speed control of the main drive, and electronic systems for controlling the fabric take-down and yarn feed.

More Jacquard. More functionality. More fashion.

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.

KARL MAYER's HKS 2-SE Expands Possibilities for Premium Stretch WARP KNITS

Warp knitted fabrics with a woven look are more in demand than ever in the fashion and apparel industries. Stretch WARP KNITS, in particular, impress with their freedom of movement, breathability, and virtually wrinkle-free wear – thereby opening up new style worlds such as smart casual or business casual. When it comes to the highly efficient production of premium-quality stretch WARP KNITS, the HKS 2-SE has long been the machine of choice. KARL MAYER’s best-selling tricot machine produces standard elastic fabrics characterized by high gauges, smooth, delicate surfaces, and a soft hand feel.

Footwear innovation enabled by warp knitting technology– insights from New Balance

The future of the athletic shoe is increasingly being shaped on warp knitting machines. For KARL MAYER, the footwear industry is one of the most important growth markets – and one of the sectors where innovative textiles can realize their full potential. In his keynote address at the opening of KARL MAYER’s TEXTILE INNOVATION CENTER in Obertshausen in April, Vishnu Prakash Muthusamy, Senior Textile and Materials Engineer at New Balance, explained the opportunities that warp knitting technology opens up for performance, sustainability, and faster development processes, and why textile manufacturers are transitioning from suppliers to development partners.

Rieter sees Barmag integration on track as orders and sales rise

The first half of 2026 was shaped by the successful completion of the largest acquisition in Rieter’s history. The Man-Made Fiber Division enables entry into the growth segment of man-made fibers and sustainably strengthens Rieter’s market position in the Asia region. The expanded Group is now the world’s leading system supplier for the processing of natural and man-made fibers. In the first half of the year, initial cost savings in material costs and operating expenses have already been realized. The targeted synergies are expected to amount to at least CHF 20 million by the end of the 2028 financial year. Due to the completion of the acquisition on February 2, 2026, the first half of the year for the Man-Made Fiber Division only amounts to five months.