The Litespeed® plus needle, introduced at the Itma Asia exhibition, is a further improved version of the proven Litespeed® technology. Reducing energy consumption and machine temperature further, Groz Beckert saves up to 17% to 20% energy at this cost.
Needle Geometry Makes a Difference
With regard to ring formation, the litespeed® plus needle is exactly the same as a traditional needle for circular knitting machines. The difference lies in the optimized shaft geometry: Thanks to the partial reduction of the needle bar thickness on both sides, the needle can be attached independently of the machine direction. This reduces needle weight and friction. Both have a positive effect on the flow characteristics of the needles in the cylinder.
Reduced Energy Consumption
Reducing the contact surface along the reduced shaft thickness on both sides of the Litespeed® plus provides a lower level of friction between the needle and the cylinder. This means that less energy is needed for needle movement; this can help reduce the energy consumption during the knitting process by up to 20%. This not only reduces energy consumption, but also helps to reduce CO2 emissions significantly.
Reduced Machine Temperature
In practice, too high temperatures can occur on rollers and cam parts in modern high-performance circular knitting machines. This inevitably leads to problems during needle and platinum exchange. In extreme cases, it can even limit the speed performance of these machines. The reduced needle bar thickness of Litespeed® plus reduces friction between the needle and cylinder and improves the lubrication behaviour that can reduce the temperature by up to 17% at maximum machine speeds.
Groz Beckert, the world leader in industrial machinery needles, precision parts and precision tools as well as systems and services for the production and assembly of textile fabrics, is at the Itma Asia with the Litespeed® plus needle; features such as energy saving, temperature reduction, efficient lubrication behaviour, reduced CO2 emissions, less wear on system components and maximum machine speed.
