Industrial Knitting Machine
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Noisebridge has a CHJX-1-52 Raynen F4000 based flat knitting machine sourced from Changshu Shengxingda Co, Ltd. It's in our Hackitorium.
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This machine will require training to use it. Details to come. |
Machine Operations
- Raynen F4000 Intelligent Control Of Flat Knitting Machine Manual - Instructions and details for operating the Raynen F4000 flat knitting machine.
- Machine operations - A YouTube playlist with how-tos for on machine operations.
Design Software
Knitting machine pattern design software is Windows based. It's installed on the computer located in the Noisebridge print shop. You can also download it to run locally.
Design Software Learning Resources
- Youtube Tutorial Playlist - A YouTube playlist with various tutorials for HQPDS software.
- Operation Manual of the Hengqiang Pattern Designing Software - This manual provides instructions for using the Hengqiang Pattern Designing Software for machine knitting.
Software Tips and Tricks
- Use H1-1 (simple/roll) when selecting machine model.
- If HQPDS throws an error when you try to start it, you may need to install some supporting libraries. Navigate to the application's folder within Program Files and install the MS Access Database engine.
Yarns you can use
- The yarn HAS to be spooled on a cone
- This is a 10 gauge machine. The yarn/thread used should be between 4.5 - 8 NM (2232 YPP to 3968), or around 4 NeC (Yarn size conversion calculator)
- Coming soon: recommended seller
Maintainance
Noisebridge Projects
Coming soon. Your project could be here!
Other Projects
Research
General Knitting Machine Learning Resources
It can be helpful to compare to manuals for other industrial-style knitting machines:
How to use
- This machine is large, complicated, potentially dangerous if misused. It will require a training like the laser.
- This machine runs on 240V. Use the included transformer.
- ALWAYS keep your hands clear of the bed and carriage while the machine is running or injury may occur. Give machine operator clearance.
- If this machine is not knitting the pattern you expect check if F2 Crose Lock is locked -- if this is engaged the machine will just knit as if everything is waste yarn.
Maintenance Log
| Date | Notes |
|---|---|
| 2023-08-03 | test |
| 2023-07-24 | machine unpacked |
Acquisition Process
Noisebridge's sewing guild raised money to purchase an automatic, industrial knitting machine for the space. Shima Seiki and Stoll machines were out of our budget and our initial plan was to buy from a start-up, Kniterate, which came out of the OpenKnit project.
Those machines were facing production delays and increased cost, so we turned to manufacturers in China for a similar spec-ed machine. We asked 5 vendors for bids via Alibaba/Made-In-China.com/the internet at large and settled on a single system, 52” 7 gauge automatic knitting machine with a controller by Raynen.
We engaged with Changshu Shengxingda Co, Ltd for a machine (model CHJX-1-52) at a cost of ~$4000. The base cost of shipping and delivery from China to SF was ~$2000; we incurred some additional fees during this process due to time in port, a customs inspection, forklift rental, and the need for a second delivery attempt.
Here's the timeline of how everything played out.
- April 10 - Initial research starts.
- April 27 - May 5 - Decision-making and engagement with the vendor.
- April 27 - May 5 - Discussions and paperwork with the freight forwarder.
- May 5 - Deposit paid for the machine, production begins; freight shipper contracted.
- May 24 - Machine delivered to the freight forwarder at Shanghai Port. The sailing vessel is MOL Celebration, with an estimated arrival on June 22 in Oakland.
- June 29 - Ship arrival at the Port of Oakland.
- June 29 - July 14 - Container stuck in Port due to a holiday, port backlog, and a customs inspection.
- July 19 - First delivery attempt.
- July 24 - Machine delivered to Noisebridge successfully.