Japanese flat knitting machine manufacturer Shima Seiki has announced the release of a brand new computerized flat knitting machine that is said to be highly productive, energy efficient, and compact. The new machine, named SSR112, has been developed as a new machine for a new era of knitting.

"The worldwide economic slowdown has shifted production toward manufacturing centres which provide a large amount of basic goods at a lower price. Since the recovery of the economy, production has remained in these areas but with greater interest in capital investment," says Shima Seiki's Masaki Karasuno.

"Demand for computerized knitting machines has increased especially in emerging markets where hand-flat machines and mechanical machines are being phased out in favour of computerized machines with higher productivity. Providing quick, mass-production of basic knitwear, SSR112 is designed to support that demand," explains Mr Karasuno.

With a 45-inch knitting width and an ultra-compact double-system carriage, SSR112 is compact, and is said to allow up to 15% more machines to be installed within a given factory floor space. High speed knitting is possible with the proven R2CARRIAGE (Rapid Response Carriage) system.

In order to assure quality and consistency that is in demand more than ever by modern-day production centres, SSR112 features Shima's renowned DSCS Digital Stitch Control System as standard. According to Shima, it is also up to 25% more energy efficient compared with previous machines.

"Known mainly for its highly sophisticated technology and refined product quality, Shima's line-up of computerized flat knitting machines has traditionally been considered upscale. Because of this, some markets had been hesitant to adopt Shima Seiki machines despite the technological potential they offer," Masaki Karasuno clarifies.

"The addition of SSR112 rounds out Shima Seiki's line-up by offering the same uncompromising technology and quality at a more affordable range, leading Shima Seiki to anticipate further market penetration in both new and existing markets."

Shima emphasizes that SSR112 is considered an entry-level machine that excels in basic knitwear production suited for specific needs of certain markets, and that further needs would continue to be met by machines in its versatile range of computerized flat knitting machines.

"The fact that the new machine can open windows of opportunities for knitting companies to strive upscale for higher quality and higher profits while remaining with a brand you already trust, is the biggest advantage offered by SSR112," Mr Karasuno explains.