#Knitting & Hosiery

2019-08-28

More scope – thanks to a modular design

In 2016, KARL MAYER launched its OJ machine series under the brandname of LACE.EXPRESS, which was aimed specifically at the special requirements of the clothing market. At ITMA 2019, this manufacturer presented a complete, self-contained machine platform for the intimate apparel sector, which greatly impressed the visitors.

The LACE.EXPRESS, with its flexible platform concept and width of 134", is now targeting the intimates sector

A special feature of the range is that the models in the series are all compatible with each other. In keeping with the motto, “Create your own production machine”, every machine can be equipped to the technical level of its high-bar neighbours within the platform. Low-bar items can be produced on high-bar machines, without adapting the pattern data. This enables the customer to benefit from maximum flexibility.

Maximum productivity and the ability to adapt to specific requirements

This new machine platform combines the OJ models with different bar configurations in a uniform layout. The range includes the OJ 91/1, OJ 85/1, OJ 65/1, OJ 59/1 and OJ 42/1. All the models are available as B and F versions. The available gauges are E 24 and E 18 and the working width is 134", which are perfect for the intimate apparel sector. This modular platform concept enables the machines to be upgraded into higher bar versions.

For example, an upgrade kit is available for changing an OJ 42/1 into an OJ 91/1 – to expand the range of patterns it can produce. The patterns are also compatible with an increasing number of bars. Customers can change the design from an OJ 42/1 to an OJ 91/1, without having to make any modifications. This unique flexibility is complemented by an exceptionally high production rate. The machines increase output by 100 % for the same investment, compared to their predecessors. Customers are also able to profit from the general benefits of the LACE.EXPRESS series. LEO® reduces the energy consumption of the LACE.EXPRESS machines by 40 %, compared to the previous models. A mobile operator user interface simplifies the setting-up of the string bars and improves the view for monitoring production.

Start of production – with new machines appearing at specific time intervals

As the first model in the new LACE.EXPRESS platform, the OJ 91/1 is available immediately as F and B versions. The first lowbar machines will be available from October onwards.

New business momentum for the Turkish warp knitting industry

Warp knitting companies can look forward to new opportunities for their business development when they visit the KARL MAYER stand at ITM. At the important trade fair in Istanbul, the industry leader will be presenting selected solutions to support customers in a market that is as important as it is difficult. The focus will be on flexibility and speed.

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.

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.

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.

Febratex 2026 to be the largest edition of the leading textile trade fair in the Americas with 10 exhibition halls

Febratex 2026 will be the largest edition in the history of the leading textile trade fair in the Americas. Dedicated to the textile and apparel manufacturing industries, the event will take place from August 18–21, 2026, in Blumenau, Santa Catarina, Brazil, with a strong focus on technology, sustainability, and business generation.

Cotton Brazil Dialogues field trip brings international stakeholders closer to Brazil’s cotton production chain

How do you build trust across the global textile value chain? By opening the farm gates. This is the principle behind the Cotton Brazil Dialogues. At the end of July, the programme welcomed its first group of international participants for a five-day immersion into Brazilian cotton production, combining field visits with technical workshops to showcase the quality, sustainability, innovation and traceability behind one of the world’s leading cotton origins.

ITMA ASIA + CITME 2026 Shanghai showcases intelligent and sustainable manufacturing

From 20 to 24 November 2026, the textile machinery industry will gather in Shanghai for ITMA ASIA + CITME 2026, Asia’s leading business platform for textile machinery, to be held at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai). The exhibition will occupy seven halls, with a total gross exhibition area of about 180,000 square metres. The exhibition has expanded by 10% over the last edition which reflects the continued industry interest in the region.