Shima Seiki, Japanese textile knitting machine manufacturer of Wakayama, Japan, will exhibit for the first time at JEC World 2019 exposition to be held in Paris, France, in hall 6, booth M74. The leading international composites show will be held from March 12-14, 2019. Shima Seiki uses latest computerised knitting technology for its products and services.
On show will be the PCAM131 multiply computerised cutting machine (NC cutting machine). Showing for the first time in France, Shima Seiki’s fast, efficient, and reliable PCAM series computerised cutting machines are known for their innovative functions and MadeinJapan quality, and boast the largest market share in Japan. PCAM131’s multiply cutting capability allows up to 1 inch (33mm) of fabric or material to be cut. At JEC World, PCAM131 will be shown in its most compact form, featuring a cutting area of 1,300 mm x 1,700 mm. A knife sharpening system produces a sharp, strong blade every time. Strong, robust components permit quicker response times for knife movement and more accurate cutting composites and other industrial materials. PCAM machines are ideally suited to global production in a wide range of industrial applications in addition to apparel and textiles, according to Shima Seiki.
Also on display will be Shima Seiki’s latest innovations in flat knitting technology as applied to the field of technical textiles. The latest SVR123SP computerised flat knitting machine features a dedicated loop presser bed in addition to regular needle beds. This permits full use of inlay technique for the production of hybrid textiles that combine the stretch characteristics of knitted fabrics with the stability of woven textiles, suited to various technical applications. At JEC World, the SVR machine will operate along with Shima Seiki’s yarn unwinding option that yields optimum yarn feed and tension for use with technical yarns that are otherwise difficult to knit. Together, they offer vast possibilities in knitting and weaving of carbon fibre and knitted composite preforms. Because flat knitting as a textile production method can produce end products that are shapedtoform, postprocessing time, cost, material, and labour can be eliminated, realising more efficient and sustainable production.
Demonstrations will also be performed on the latest version of Shima Seiki’s 3D CAD and design system SDS-ONE APEX3. APEX3 provides comprehensive support throughout the product supply chain, integrating production into one smooth and efficient workflow from yarn development, product planning and design to programming of production data for both cutting machines and flat knitting machines. Especially effective is the way APEX3 improves on the design evaluation process with its ultrarealistic simulation capability, whereby virtual samples minimise the need for actual samplemaking. In such a way APEX3 realises significant savings in time, cost, and material, contributing to sustainable manufacturing. (GK)