On June 8, 2023, the leading international trade fair for textile machinery ITMA opened in Milan, Italy. The leading show is taking place at the Fiera Milano Rho and runs until tomorrow, June 14^th. Leading needles and elements producer Groz-Beckert has been presenting innovations in Knitting, alongside novelties in Weaving, Felting, Tufting, Carding and Sewing – in Hall 2, Booth D101.

Knitting

The Knitting product area is showing the novelties of its four product groups Circular Knitting, Flat Knitting, Legwear and Warp Knitting. The Circular Knitting product group is presenting two new knitting systems and a new compound needle, developed together with cooperation partners, as well as optimised precision needles, system parts and cylinders.

One of the new knitting systems is the innovative LCmax circular knitting machine needle in combination with the newly developed sinker SNK-SF. The LCmax features a completely new, wave-shaped shank geometry. The use of the needle reduces energy costs in the knitting process through minimal power consumption and reduced machine temperatures. Compared to a standard needle, up to 20 % of energy consumption can be saved by using the LCmax. But already the production of the needle is characterized by a reduced CO2 footprint. At the same time, the LCmax enables utilization of the maximum machine speed and easy handling.

The new SNK-SF sinker also features significantly higher wear resistance. It also enables smoother running of the circular knitting machine and improved loop structure. Together with the innovative sinker SNK DUO-OL, the new SAN DUO forms the second new knitting system from Groz-Beckert. Both the SANTM DUO and the SAN DUO feature a particularly low shank with predetermined breaking groove. The low shank minimizes soiling in the knitting process with highly abrasive yarns. The predetermined breaking groove in turn enables controlled needle breakage in the event of wear at the desired point. This reduces errors in the knitting process as well as downtimes.

Another innovation is a new compound needle from Groz-Beckert for circular knitting machines. With this needle variant, the closer is guided safely and precisely in the groove in the needle shank. At the same time, however, the base of the needle shank is worked in a closed manner, ensuring maximum stability. The compound needle reliably prevents latching and thus makes a decisive contribution to process reliability. Its use ensures a uniform and speed-independent loop structure, even at maximum speeds.

Under the motto ‘Innovation through cooperation’, live presentations on the innovations of the circular knitting sector will be held at the exhibition booth. They highlight the successful cooperation with development partners.

The Flat Knitting product group puts special application needles at the centre of its presentation. The SAN TT is particularly suitable for multi-thread knitting of narrow loops in the field of technical or medical textiles. The new SAN FY is designed for processing robust, uneven fancy yarns. The advantages of the SANTM series are an increase in process reliability and a reduction in needle breakage rates, as well as a particularly precise loop pattern.

For applications where energy efficiency is a key issue, Groz-Beckert offers the flat knitting needle Litespeed plus (LS+). It features partial thickness reduction of the needle shank on both sides. This significantly reduces power consumption and thus the CO2 footprint in production.

Particularly durable dur needles for the sock and fine hosiery sector with high load limits, as well as the steadily growing portfolio of system parts, is presented by the Legwear product group. In addition, products for application-related use in the production of smooth, plush or patterned plush knits are presented. Thanks to their high resistance, these needles help to reduce knitting process costs.

Its continuously growing portfolio of modules is showcased by the Warp Knitting product group. They enable an individual and varied production spectrum including easy needle handling. The system components have been supplemented by the newly developed guide needle for piezo jacquard machines. The perforating needles are characterized by fast assembly and ensure an optimized appearance of the fabric. The new punching needle is presented with the specially developed "JacquART Visualizer", which visually and interactively simulates the function and movement of the system parts.

Technology and Development Center (TEZ)

The Technology and Development Center (TEZ) is presenting itself at ITMA with a virtual 360-degree tour. Visitors can discover not only the premises but also the extensive range of services. In addition to competent expert advice and the joint development of solutions for specific textile problems, the TEZ also offers its customers the joint development of new, innovative products, technologies and business models. In addition, training courses and seminars from the Groz-Beckert Academy are offered at the TEZ.

Sustainability

Numerous products, services and the latest innovations from Groz-Beckert focus on reducing the company's carbon footprint. That Groz-Beckert's commitment also goes beyond this is shown by the sustainability theme corner. Here, examples from the company are presented to show which measures have already been implemented and what role the topic plays in everyday life.

Groz-Beckert

Groz-Beckert is the world's leading supplier of industrial machine needles, precision parts and fine tools, as well as systems and services for the production and joining of textile fabrics. Its products and services support the fields of knitting, weaving, felting, tufting, carding and sewing.

Groz-Beckert is part of the Groz-Beckert Group, a market leader in the development, manufacture and distribution of process-critical textile precision tools, industrial cutting solutions and solution provider for textile construction and reinforcement solutions made from high-performance technical fibers for composite materials.

The group consists of the companies Groz-Beckert, TKM and solidian and generated sales of 814 million euros in 2022 with around 9,500 employees worldwide. The company is active in more than 150 countries with agencies, production and sales subsidiaries.

www.groz-beckert.com