Warp knits are gaining ground across fashion and home textiles, and KARL MAYER has responded with two significant upgrades to its HKS 2-SE platform. The German machinery manufacturer announced these enhancements on July 2, 2026, targeting higher productivity and broader versatility for premium stretch warp knits.
Rising Demand for Stretch Warp Knits Drives Innovation
The global apparel market increasingly favors fabrics that combine performance with aesthetics. Stretch warp knits excel here, offering freedom of movement, breathability, and virtually wrinkle-free wear. These properties are fueling expansion in style segments such as smart casual and business casual.
KARL MAYER's HKS 2-SE has long been the preferred tricot machine for producing standard elastic fabrics. The machine is known for its high gauges, smooth and delicate surfaces, and soft hand feel — the defining qualities of premium stretch fabric production.
HKS 2-SE TWO Now Available in E 40 Gauge
The HKS 2-SE TWO is the first model in KARL MAYER's new line of two-bar tricot machines, engineered to double output through a two-in-one concept. It operates at a combined working width of 2 x 134″, simultaneously producing two fabric panels of identical quality.
The machine was previously available only in E 36 gauge. It now also comes in E 40 gauge, making it particularly well-suited for polo shirts and trousers where smooth texture and durability are essential. This gauge expansion broadens the machine's reach in premium warp knits production for casualwear.
New 312-Inch Model for Bedding and Home Textiles
A new HKS 2-SE variant with a working width of 312″ joins existing models at 130″ (expandable by 4″) and 156″. Operating at a speed of 3,800 min-1, it sets a new productivity benchmark for large-format textile applications such as bedding.
This model targets bedding manufacturers — particularly producers of duvets with a satin finish and a smooth, cool feel. Such products face strong seasonal demand during summer months. Available in E 36 and E 40 gauges, the machine uses an N-pattern gear drive and is equipped with KAMCOS® 2 control technology.
With this addition, the HKS 2-SE now serves sportswear, swimwear, lingerie, casualwear, and home textiles. Textile producers tracking the latest warp knits developments can follow updates on the textile news section of Textilezon.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the new 312-inch HKS 2-SE model designed for?
The 312″ model is engineered for large-format applications such as bedding and duvets, running at 3,800 min-1. It extends the HKS 2-SE range into home textile production alongside its existing apparel applications.
What gauge options does the HKS 2-SE TWO now support?
The HKS 2-SE TWO now supports both E 36 and E 40 gauges following the 2026 update. The new E 40 option makes it well-suited for polo shirts and trousers, broadening its coverage of premium stretch warp knits for casualwear.
Which textile segments does the updated HKS 2-SE platform serve?
The updated platform covers sportswear, swimwear, lingerie, business casual apparel, and home textiles including duvets and bedding. These additions position the HKS 2-SE as one of the most versatile premium warp knit production systems on the market.
