Warp knitting technology is advancing rapidly. KARL MAYER has expanded its flagship HKS 2-SE tricot machine line with two significant new variants, giving manufacturers more options for premium stretch fabric production across fashion and home textiles.
Stretch warp knits are in growing demand across global apparel markets. Their freedom of movement, breathability, and wrinkle-free properties make them ideal for smart casual and business casual styles — segments that continue to gain market share worldwide.
HKS 2-SE: The Market Leader Gets Stronger
The HKS 2-SE has long been KARL MAYER's best-selling tricot machine. It produces standard elastic fabrics with high gauges, smooth surfaces, and a soft hand feel — qualities that define premium stretch fabric for fashion, sportswear, and lingerie applications.
Its precision, efficiency, and reliability have secured its market-leading position. Two new additions now extend its versatility: a 312-inch wide model and an updated HKS 2-SE TWO with gauge E 40.
HKS 2-SE TWO in E 40: Double Output for Apparel
The HKS 2-SE TWO is the first model in a new line of two-bar tricot machines from KARL MAYER. It operates at a working width of 2 x 134 inches, simultaneously producing two fabric panels of identical quality at high speed and with straightforward operation.
Previously available only in gauge E 36, the HKS 2-SE TWO now also comes in E 40 gauge. The finer gauge makes this machine particularly suitable for polo shirts and pants — applications that demand durable fabrics with smooth, refined textures.
- Working width: 2 x 134 inches (two-in-one design)
- Available gauges: E 36 and E 40
- Primary applications: Polo shirts, trousers, smooth-texture sportswear
- Key benefit: Double output from a single machine
312-Inch Model Opens Home Textile Markets
The new 312-inch wide HKS 2-SE targets large-format fabric production. At a working speed of 3,800 min-1, it delivers strong productivity gains for bedding, duvets, and other wide-format home textiles.
Supple satin-finish fabrics with a smooth, cool feel are in strong seasonal demand — particularly for summer bedding. This model extends the HKS 2-SE's reach beyond its established sportswear, swimwear, and lingerie applications into the fast-growing home textiles segment.
- Working width: 312 inches
- Working speed: 3,800 min-1
- Available gauges: E 36 and E 40
- Drive system: N-pattern gear drive
- Control system: KAMCOS® 2
- Applications: Bedding, duvets, home textiles, sportswear, swimwear, lingerie
Textile manufacturers tracking machinery innovations can follow the latest industry updates in the Textilezon Info Center.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the HKS 2-SE TWO different from the standard HKS 2-SE?
The HKS 2-SE TWO is a two-in-one tricot machine that simultaneously produces two fabric panels at a working width of 2 x 134 inches. This design doubles output compared to a conventional single-panel setup, making it highly efficient for high-volume stretch fabric production.
What fabrics does the new E 40 gauge on the HKS 2-SE TWO produce?
The E 40 gauge enables production of durable fabrics with smooth, refined textures. These are especially suited for polo shirts and pants, where surface consistency and fabric quality directly affect end-product value.
What applications does the new 312-inch HKS 2-SE model support?
The 312-inch model supports large-format applications, especially bedding and duvet production. Its 3,800 min-1 working speed ensures high productivity for satin-finish home textile fabrics, while the machine also serves sportswear, swimwear, and lingerie markets.
KARL MAYER's expanded HKS 2-SE lineup allows warp knitting manufacturers to serve a broader product mix — from premium fashion apparel to home textiles — with the efficiency and consistency that global B2B textile buyers demand.