In light of the recent worldwide shortage of surgical masks due to the spread of the COVID­19 coronavirus infection, leading flat knitting solutions provider Shima Seiki has released knitting data for producing a 3D knitted version of the masks on its WHOLEGARMENT knitting machines.

The released data is aimed at producing cotton masks on the Japanese company’s SWG041N2, SWG061N2 and SWG091N2 models, as well as on the rest of its compact WHOLEGARMENT knitting machines, also known as WHOLEGARMENT Mini type machines that 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.

“Seam free 3D WHOLEGARMENT masks provides superior fit and comfort. Ear straps that are knitted in one­piece together with the mask portion offers reduced stress on the ears and require no further sewing for quick response production. A filter pouch is also knitted in for inserting available virus filters and other filtration fabrics,” said Shima Seiki’s Masaki Karasuno.

“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 allergens,” Mr Karasuno concluded.

Shima Seiki SWG Mini WHOLEGARMENT knitting machine. © Shima Seiki.

Further information

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

Gauge supported: 15G

Machines supported: M1503W00F (Ladies’) M1503W10F (Men’s)

WHOLEGARMENT “Mini” machines SWG041, SWG061, SWG091 SWG041N, SWG061N, SWG091N SWG041N2, SWG061N2, SWG091N2

© Shima Seiki.

For more information please contact:

SHIMA SEIKI MFG., LTD.

Tel: +81 73­474­8210 www.shimaseiki.com/inquiry/

www.shimaseiki.com