© Shima Seiki.

In light of the recent worldwide shortage of surgical masks due to the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus infection, leading flat knitting solutions provider Shima Seiki has released additional knitting data for producing another type of 3D knit mask on its WHOLEGARMENT knitting machines.

Data is for cotton masks knitted using 3D WHOLEGARMENT knitting technology that can produce items in their entirety without the need for sewing afterwards. The masks can be knitted on SWG041N2, SWG061N2 and SWG091N2, as well as on the rest of Shima Seiki’s compact WHOLEGARMENT knitting machines also known as WHOLEGARMENT Mini type machines, which are suited to production of small accessory items, in 15 gauge. Mask data is available for download from the Shima Seiki Users’ Site, an archive featuring over 10,000 knit samples for use by Shima Seiki customers.

© Shima Seiki.

“Seam-free 3D WHOLEGARMENT masks provide superior fit and comfort. Integral ear straps that are knitted along with the mask portion offers reduced stress on the ears and require no further sewing for quick response production. Holes are also knitted-in for insertion of wires that provide further adjustment for improved fit,” Shima explains.

The mask data is intended for knitting with the use of silver-fibre yarn, which has antibacterial properties. The filter pouch that was featured on previously released WHOLEGARMENT masks is eliminated, allowing this mask to be knitted with a single layer of fabric, making it thinner and lighter.

“Knitted cotton masks can be washed and reused repeatedly. It should be noted however that unlike common nonwoven surgical masks, knit masks do not have virus and pollen filtration functionality. Their main use is for prevention of spray from coughing and sneezing, and for reducing exposure to airborne particles such as pollen.

Mask Data Details

Release date: Monday, 20th April 2020 10:00AM Japan Time

Download location: Shima Seiki Users’ Site www.shimaseiki.com/user/samplesearch/

Sample no.: M1509W00S (Ladies’ size) M1509W00M (Men’s size)

Machines supported: WHOLEGARMENT “Mini” machines SWG041, SWG061, SWG091

Gauge supported: 15G

For more information please contact:

Shima Seiki Mfg. Ltd.

Tel: +81 73-474-8210

www.shimaseiki.com/inquiry/