#Knitting & Hosiery

2025-05-28

The newest Lonati DC88 DE 2H2 presented in Japan

During the private show organized by UNION, held from May 20 to 23 in Amagasaki (Japan), Lonati presented the new DC88 DE 2H2 model, a double-cylinder machine designed to redefine efficiency and quality standards in the production of men's, women's, and children's socks. The DC88 DE 2H2 represents the latest evolution of the Lonati double-cylinder range: it is a full two-feeds machine developed to ensure maximum productivity and textile flexibility, thanks to a series of advanced technological solutions, including a new system that allows two-feed knitting even during reciprocation — ensuring all-time high productivity levels.

Lonati DC88 DE 2H2 presentation in Japan © 2025 Lonati

The DC88 DE 2H2 is equipped with a single HF magnetic needle selection system, enabling flexible management of rib structures, links, and Jacquard patterns.

It also allows tuck stitch knitting on the lower cylinder on both feeds, improving fabric structure and performance. The brushless motor with variable reciprocation ensures precise movements, even during heel and toe knitting phases, while HTD belts with automatic tensioners extend the lifespan of the transmission system. Cylinder positioning is controlled by a magnetic encoder integrated directly into the lower cylinder, ensuring maximum precision throughout the entire production cycle.

For heel and toe knitting, the machine uses 4 selection points that replace pickers and droppers, allowing for a wide variety of patterns in both single and double feed modes.

The newly designed knitting head is engineered to reduce compressed air consumption and enhance fabric quality. Fabric width is adjusted electronically on each stitch cam via stepper motors, with real-time automatic correction. All machine functions are electronic, featuring active self-protection and self-diagnostic systems supported by backup batteries. The user interface consists of an intuitive graphic keyboard, which allows easy access to machine data, documentation, and troubleshooting messages. Article programming is performed via the ORION graphic software, compatible with Windows environment. The machine can be connected to a LAN network and integrated with Nautilus and Arcadia systems for real-time production data collection and monitoring.

The DC88 DE 2H2 will be available in 3”1/2, 3”3/4, and 4” diameters, with gauges ranging from 9 to 22.

80% less air consumption and increased productivity: tangible benefits of the DC88 DE 2H2

Recent consumption measurements show that the two-feeds heel version of the DC88 DE 2H2 requires an average of 17 NL of compressed air per sock (short size 11). In comparison, a traditional one-feed double-cylinder machine consumes approximately 110 NL per sock. This results in an 80% reduction in compressed air usage — a major advantage in terms of energy efficiency and lower operating costs.

Productivity: +61.5% compared to one-feed machines

In addition to reduced consumption, the DC88 DE 2H2 delivers significantly higher productivity.

When producing the same article over one hour, the following results were recorded:

• One-feed machine: 24.49 socks/hour

• DC88 DE 2H2 (two-feed heel): 39.56 socks/hour

This corresponds to a +61.5% productivity increase, made possible by the “Integral” technology, which enables heel and toe knitting in double feed mode even during reciprocated motion.

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.

More patterns, less effort: the MULTI-MATIC® at Rohleder

Rohleder is one of Europe’s most modern weaving mills. For over 80 years, the family-owned company has been developing and manufacturing premium fabrics for brands, retailers and private customers – 100% Made in Germany. This success is made possible by a consistent focus on design, quality, and functionality, as well as by continuous investment in state-of-the-art production facilities. Rohleder also relies on innovative technologies in warp preparation and has been collaborating with KARL MAYER for many years. As recently as 2023, a MULTI-MATIC® was delivered to the company’s headquarters in Konradsreuth.

BASF opens global diaper and superabsorbents performance lab in Mumbai

BASF has officially inaugurated its new Performance Lab for diapers and superabsorbents (SAP) in Mumbai on August 18, 2026, which will provide technical and application services to superabsorbent customers globally. The new lab of BASF’s Hygiene Solutions business has been established in less than a year and is part of BASF’s Innovation Campus Asia Pacific in Mumbai, BASF’s second largest R&D site in Asia Pacific established in 2017 under BASF Chemicals India Private Limited.

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.