Knitting Circular Machine
Presented by: MD. Riadul Islam
Department of Textile Engineering
Mawlana Bhashani Science and
Technology University
Introduction to Knitting
• Knitting is a process of forming fabrics by
interlooping yarns using needles. There are
two major types of knitting: Weft knitting and
Warp knitting. Circular knitting is a weft
knitting method, widely used in knitwear
production due to its efficiency and versatility.
Definition of Circular Knitting
Machine
• A circular knitting machine is a mechanical
device that produces fabric in a tubular form
using needles arranged in a circular cylinder.
The machine operates continuously in a
circular motion and is used primarily for
manufacturing garments such as t-shirts,
undergarments, and sportswear.
History of Circular Knitting
• Circular knitting machines originated in the
19th century as hand-driven devices.
Technological advancements led to the
development of automatic, high-speed
machines with computer-controlled systems
that ensure high productivity and fabric
consistency.
Types of Circular Knitting Machines
• 1. Single Jersey Machine – used to produce
light-weight, one-sided fabric.
• 2. Double Jersey Machine – produces thicker,
reversible fabrics such as Rib and Interlock.
• 3. Jacquard Machine – allows complex
patterns using programmable controls.
• 4. Terry and Fleece Machines – used for
thicker, textured fabrics.
Main Parts of a Circular Knitting
Machine
• 1. Cylinder: Holds the needles and rotates.
• 2. Needles: Form loops in the yarn.
• 3. Sinkers: Help in holding and forming loops.
• 4. Cams: Guide the needles' vertical
movement.
• 5. Yarn Feeder: Feeds yarn to needles.
• 6. Take-Down System: Pulls down the formed
fabric.
• 7. Fabric Roller: Rolls the produced fabric.
Basic Working Principle
• The yarn is supplied to the machine through
feeders. The cylinder rotates, moving the
needles through the cam tracks. The needles
perform upward and downward motions to
form loops. As the process continues, the
fabric is pulled down and collected in roll
form.
Needles and Cam System
• Latch needles are commonly used in circular
knitting machines. The cam system drives the
needles through a sequence: raising, clearing,
feeding, and knocking-over. This system is
critical for loop formation and directly affects
fabric quality.
Feeder and Yarn Guide Mechanism
• The feeder supplies yarn to the needles. The
yarn guide ensures accurate positioning and
proper tension. The number of feeders
determines the machine's speed and
productivity. Advanced feeders have positive
feeding systems for consistent tension control.
Detailed Loop Formation Process
• 1. Raising: The needle moves up.
• 2. Clearing: Old loop is cleared.
• 3. Feeding: New yarn enters the hook.
• 4. Knitting: Needle descends forming a new
loop.
• 5. Knock-over: Old loop is released and new
one is formed. This loop formation cycle is
repeated rapidly for fabric production.
Take-Down and Fabric Rolling
• The take-down system pulls the fabric
downward to maintain consistent tension
during knitting. The fabric is then wound into
rolls for further processing. This mechanism
ensures smooth and even fabric structure.
Types of Fabric Produced
• Circular knitting machines can produce various
types of fabrics such as:
• - Single Jersey
• - Rib Knit
• - Interlock Knit
• - Fleece
• These fabrics are used in t-shirts, sportswear,
underwear, and more.
Advantages of Circular Knitting
Machines
• • High-speed production with minimal labor.
• • Continuous fabric output in tubular form.
• • Less fabric wastage.
• • Ability to produce fine or coarse fabrics by
changing gauge.
• • Compatible with various yarn types.
Limitations of Circular Knitting
• • Limited design capability compared to flat
knitting.
• • Tendency of spirality in fabrics.
• • Tension variation can cause defects.
• • Needle breakage at high speeds.
Machine Gauge and Yarn
Requirements
• Gauge is defined as the number of needles per
inch on the cylinder. Common gauges include
18G, 24G, 28G, and 32G. The yarn must be
strong, uniform, and compatible with machine
speed and gauge. Cotton, polyester, and
spandex are widely used.
Applications in the Textile Industry
• Circular knitting machines are used in
producing:
• • Casual wear and sportswear
• • Undergarments
• • Hosiery
• • Industrial and medical textiles such as
bandages and tubing.
Maintenance and Cleaning
• Regular maintenance ensures machine
longevity. Key steps include:
• • Cleaning lint and dust from needles and
cams.
• • Lubricating moving parts.
• • Inspecting and replacing damaged needles.
• • Calibrating feeder tension and cam
alignment.
Modern Technological
Developments
• • Computerized pattern programming
• • Auto stop for yarn breakage
• • Digital monitoring systems
• • Energy-efficient motors
• These advancements have significantly
increased productivity and reduced manual
errors.
Future Trends in Circular Knitting
• • Smart knitting machines with IoT
integration.
• • AI for defect detection.
• • Sustainable practices using eco-friendly
yarns.
• • 3D knitting technology for customized fabric
structures.
Conclusion
• Circular knitting machines are a backbone of
the knitwear industry. Their efficiency,
automation, and adaptability make them
essential for modern textile production.
Proper understanding and maintenance
ensure high-quality output and reduced
waste.
