Rib Knitting Machine Systems
topic
Rib knitting machines use cylinder and dial needle arrangements producing rib structures where alternating wale columns are formed from opposite needle beds, creating the characteristic vertical rib appearance and high horizontal extensibility of 1x1, 2x2, and other rib configurations used for collar, cuff, and body fabric in knitwear at gauges from 7 to 18 on large diameter machines and down to 3 on coarse gauge machines.
Role
Provides the elastically extensible rib fabric structures used for collar and cuff components of knitwear and sportswear where recovery from stretching is essential, with rib structures offering significantly higher lateral stretch than plain jersey from the alternating loop column interlocking that allows ribs to expand and recover while maintaining the vertical rib visual character required for these garment components.