Introduction
For small-to-medium enterprises and startups in the textile industry, selecting the right sock knitting machine is critical to balancing production efficiency, quality, and cost. This article focuses on single-cylinder sock knitting machines-a versatile and cost-effective solution for producing 200–400 pairs of socks daily-covering their technical specifications, operational benefits, maintenance requirements, and industry applications.
Structure and Function
Single-cylinder sock machines, also known as single-jersey knitting machines, are designed with a single cylindrical needle bed and are ideal for producing basic sock styles such as sports socks, mid-tube socks and ankle socks. They use hooks to interweave yarn into a continuous cylinder, which is then made into socks through an automated process.
Key Components
Cylinder: Can accommodate up to 220 needles, depending on the needle size of the machine
Feeding system: Delivers yarn from the bobbin to the needle head, supporting a variety of yarn types (cotton, polyester, spandex).
Programmable control: Adjusts stitch pattern, tension and speed through a digital interface.
Stitching mechanism: Automatically sews the sock toe after knitting is completed, reducing manual labor.
| Model | WSD-7FP | WSD-7FP-I |
| Cylinder Diameter | 3.5 inch/3.75inch | |
| Needle Number | 72-220N | |
| Max Speed | 350rpm/min | |
| Running Speed | 280-300rpm/min | |
| Function | 1: Making all kinds of plain ,invisible socks | |
| 2: One main feeder(9fingers),6 jacqard feeder(17fingers) | ||
| 3: Double elastic system | ||
| 4： Knitting high heel,left and right foot.180°against sock mouth,two colors sock toe and heel | ||
| Main Features | All mechanical parts are installed in high precision CNC mechancal positioning mode and standardized assembly,which makes the machine working more stably and improve component interchangeability | |
| Keyboard and touch screen operating platform,UPS backup system for power off protection and automatic error detection. | ||
| High speed,big memory CPU capacity on board for easily modify chain program and pattern | ||
| Power Requirement | Drive Motor | 1.35KW |
| Fun Motor | 1.1KW | |
| Control box | 0.8KW | |
| Voltage | 220V/380V/415V | |
| Floor Space | 160X120X250CM | |
| Net/Gross Weight | 320/380KG | |
| Packing Size(LxWxH) | 110X75X175CM | |
Daily Maintenance
Cleaning
To ensure the smooth operation of your knitting machine, it is crucial to perform daily cleaning. Remove lint and debris from the needle bed and yarn paths. Lint accumulation can cause the yarn to snag or break, leading to production delays and poor-quality output. Use a soft brush or compressed air to gently clean these areas, making sure to reach all the nooks and crannies. Pay special attention to the spaces between the needles, as lint often gets trapped there. Additionally, wipe down the exterior of the machine to keep it free from dust and dirt, which can also affect its performance over time.
Lubrication
Applying food-grade oil to the moving parts of the knitting machine is essential for reducing friction and wear. Components such as cams, hooks, and other mechanical linkages need regular lubrication to function optimally. Before applying the oil, make sure the machine is turned off and unplugged for safety. Use a small dropper or applicator to carefully apply the oil to the specified lubrication points, following the manufacturer's guidelines. Avoid over-lubricating, as excess oil can attract dirt and lint, creating more problems. After lubricating, run the machine at a slow speed for a few minutes to distribute the oil evenly and check for any unusual noises or movements.
Needle Inspection
The needles are one of the most critical components of a knitting machine, and their condition directly impacts the quality of the stitches. Inspect the needles daily for signs of bending or wear. Bent needles can cause stitch irregularities, such as dropped stitches or uneven tension, while worn needles may not hold the yarn properly, leading to skipped stitches. Replace any bent or worn needles immediately using the appropriate tools. When installing new needles, ensure they are inserted correctly and are in the proper position within the needle bed. This simple daily check can save you a lot of time and frustration in the long run.
Preventive Maintenance
Monthly Checks
In addition to daily maintenance, it is important to conduct monthly checks on your knitting machine to keep it in top condition. One of the key tasks is to calibrate the tension sensors. These sensors play a vital role in ensuring consistent stitch tension throughout the knitting process. Use a calibration tool or follow the manufacturer's instructions to adjust the tension sensors as needed. Also, verify the stitch count accuracy by knitting a test swatch and counting the stitches. Any discrepancies should be addressed promptly, as inaccurate stitch counts can result in garments that do not meet the desired specifications. Additionally, check the alignment of the yarn guides and other components to ensure the yarn is feeding smoothly and evenly.
Annual Servicing
Annual servicing is a comprehensive maintenance procedure that helps to extend the lifespan of your knitting machine and maintain its performance. During the annual service, replace belts, bearings, and electronic components such as control boards. Belts can stretch or break over time, leading to inconsistent machine operation, while worn bearings can cause excessive noise and vibration. Electronic components may also fail due to wear and tear or electrical issues. By replacing these components regularly, you can prevent major breakdowns and costly repairs. After replacing the components, perform a thorough inspection of the machine, including checking the electrical connections, lubricating all moving parts, and testing the machine's functionality. This annual servicing will ensure that your knitting machine continues to operate at its best for years to come.
Moisture-wicking fabric
The socks feature a special polyester-spandex blend that has excellent moisture-wicking properties. The polyester fibers in the blend quickly wick sweat away from the skin and transfer it to the outer layer of the sock, where it can evaporate faster. This keeps feet dry during intense activity, reducing the risk of blisters, chafing and odor. The addition of spandex gives it excellent elasticity and recovery, ensuring a comfortable fit without hindering movement.
Reinforced heel/toe
To enhance the durability of the socks, the heel and toe areas of the socks are reinforced with programmable patterns. The heel and toe are where the socks are subject to the most pressure and friction during exercise. The programmable pattern is carefully designed to provide additional reinforcement in these high-wear areas. This not only extends the life of the socks, but also ensures that they retain their shape and function over the long term. The reinforced design is able to withstand repeated bending, stretching and friction.
Fashion Socks
Customized Colors/Patterns
Fashion socks are all about expressing your personality, and they offer the ability to customize colors and patterns to suit your style. By quickly switching up the design, you can easily match the latest seasonal trends. Whether it's bold and bright colors for summer or soft and sophisticated tones for autumn and winter, these socks allow you to express your personality through your shoes. The range of customizable patterns is wide, from classic stripes and polka dots, to trendy geometric shapes and even delicate floral patterns.
Eco-friendly Materials
In order to create a sustainable fashion collection, fashion socks are made from eco-friendly materials such as bamboo fiber or organic cotton. Bamboo fiber is a highly renewable resource that grows quickly without the use of pesticides or fertilizers. It is also naturally antibacterial and hypoallergenic, making it a great choice for people with sensitive skin. Organic cotton is grown without the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, reducing the impact of the growing process on the environment.
Children's Socks
Soft Fabrics
Children's socks are made from soft, skin-friendly fabrics such as cotton or bamboo fiber, which are perfect for sensitive skin. Cotton is a breathable and comfortable natural fiber that allows air to circulate around the foot, keeping it cool and dry. As mentioned earlier, bamboo fibers are also hypoallergenic and antibacterial, making them ideal for children who are prone to skin irritation. These soft fabrics ensure that the socks feel comfortable on your child's feet without causing any discomfort or itching.
Fun Prints
To appeal to young buyers, children's socks feature fun prints that are easy to design. From cute animals and colorful cartoon characters to popular superheroes and princesses, these designs are sure to spark your child's imagination. Fun prints make wearing socks a pleasant experience for children.
Key features to consider
Needle gauge: 144-176 needles for medium-weight socks; 200-220 needles for delicate fabrics.
Automation level: Semi-automatic models (such as the Soosan S-500) strike a balance between cost and efficiency.
Yarn feeding: Multi-feed systems (4-6 feeds) allow color changes without stopping the machine.
6. How do single-tube sock machines adapt to the environmental protection trend? What sustainable production solutions do they support?
Single-tube sock machines respond to green manufacturing needs through material compatibility and energy consumption optimization:
Yarn adaptation: Support organic cotton, recycled nylon, and other environmentally friendly materials, and use low-tension weaving technology to reduce fiber damage;
Energy-saving design:
Servo motor: Automatically enters sleep mode when not running, standby power consumption ≤5W;
Circular production:
Waste yarn recovery: Collect waste yarn through a negative pressure suction system, crush it and re-granulate it.
