#Knitting & Hosiery

2026-09-14

KARL MAYER launches extra-wide HKS 3-M EL for increased productivity

Sportswear made from a fabric produced on the HKS 3-M EL demonstrates the machine’s potential for sports, activewear and athleisure applications. © 2026 KARL MAYER / AI generated

KARL MAYER has launched a new extra-wide version of its HKS 3-M EL tricot machine, designed to increase productivity particularly in the manufacture of textiles for sports, activewear and athleisure applications.

The new model has a working width of 330", which can be expanded by an additional 10", and reaches production speeds of up to 2,800 min⁻¹.

“With the HKS 3-M EL in 340", we offer the most productive machine in this configuration on the market,” says Michael Ahrendt, Global Head of Performance Fabrics at KARL MAYER.

In addition to its increased working width and production speed, the three-bar tricot machine incorporates energy-efficient technologies, automation solutions and features designed to reduce maintenance requirements.

Flexibility for a wide range of textile applications

The HKS 3-M EL can produce fabrics with a wide variety of designs and high stitch densities for applications in fashion and apparel, home textiles and technical textiles. KARL MAYER sees particular potential in the sports, activewear and athleisure segments.

Applications include soft and warm outdoor textiles as well as fluffy, napped or brushed fleece fabrics used, for example, in softshell products. The machine can also process sustainable yarns.

According to KARL MAYER, the flexible patterning options are intended to give manufacturers greater freedom in product development and enable them to respond more quickly to changing market requirements.

Fabric produced on the HKS 3-M EL © 2026 KARL MAYER

Available in two gauges and with four winding systems

The HKS 3-M EL is available in gauges E 28 and E 32 and with four different batching devices. The EL pattern drive controls the guide bars and facilitates pattern changes, while the Multi-Speed feature provides additional flexibility.

The new extra-wide HKS 3-M EL aims to be the “output champion” in its class. © 2026 KARL MAYER

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