Shima Seiki to unveil lower-cost SES-R flat knitting machine at ITMA Asia + CITME

Shima Seiki plans a first public showing of a more affordable version of its SES-R computerized flat knitting machine. The venue is ITMA Asia + CITME in Shanghai. The company says the machine adds a new sinker system to the earlier SES series.

According to Shima Seiki, that system widens the range of products the machine can make, including 3D shaping for patterns across industries. The company also will display the N.SSR132, which it introduced at the previous edition of the show in Singapore.

Seam-free WholeGarment technology will be represented by two machines. Shima Seiki describes the Mach2xs153 as having 4 needle beds and using its SlideNeedle to knit fine-gauge WholeGarment items on all needles. The compact Swg061n2 Mini is positioned for items that include technical knits. Software on show includes SDS KnitPaint-Online, ApexFiz for fabric simulation and 3D virtual sampling, and the Shima Seiki Online Services platform.

For equipment buyers, ask whether the lower-cost SES-R changes the sinker system's capabilities or only the price, and request a sample run for your patterns. Confirm the N.SSR132's availability and lead time in your market. For WholeGarment, check whether the Mach2xs153 or the compact Swg061n2 Mini fits your item mix, and ask which software licenses and online services are required.