Circular Knitting Machine Gauge and Needle Technology
topic
Circular knitting machine gauge defines the number of needles per inch of cylinder circumference, ranging from 7 gauge for coarse outerwear to 40 gauge for fine hosiery-weight jersey, with latch needle design including hook geometry, latch length, and butt height determining loop formation reliability at each gauge and yarn count combination, with compound needle designs used on high-speed machines for improved loop control at fine gauges.
Role
Determines the fabric structure fineness and yarn count range processable on each machine gauge through the needle spacing that governs loop size and the fabric cover factor achievable at defined yarn counts, with gauge selection being the primary machine specification decision that defines the product range and yarn count capability of each circular knitting machine investment.