Single Jersey vs Double Jersey Circular Knitting Machines: Bangladesh Factory Sourcing Guide

Strategic Differences Between Single and Double Jersey Circular Knitting

When expanding knitting floor capacity in Bangladesh, selecting between Single Jersey and Double Jersey circular knitting machines dictates fabric capability, production speed, and profitability.

1. Structural Architecture & Needles

Single Jersey Machines: Utilize a single vertical cylinder equipped with one set of latch needles and matching sinkers. Commonly configured with a 4-track cam system allowing knit, tuck, and miss loop configurations.

Double Jersey Machines: Employ two distinct needle systems — a vertical cylinder and a horizontal dial at 90 degrees. Needle-to-needle arrangements can be set to rib gating or interlock gating without requiring conventional sinkers.

2. Fabric Capabilities & GSM Range

Single Jersey: Standard plain jersey (130–180 GSM), Lycra stretch single jersey, single and double pique (polo fabrics), and 2-thread inlay fleece.

Double Jersey: Heavy interlock (180–300 GSM), 1x1 and 2x2 rib trims, Roman fabric (Ponte di Roma), scuba sportswear, and thermal waffle structures.

3. Machine Speeds and Output Capacity

Single jersey machines typically rotate at higher peripheral speeds (25–35 RPM for a 34-inch cylinder) yielding up to 450–550 kg of fabric per 24 hours. Double jersey machines operate at 18–26 RPM due to dial-cylinder intermeshing, producing 320–420 kg per day.

Sourcing Recommendations for Bangladesh Mills

For composite export mills catering to European basic tees, invest in 30"–34" 24G/28G Single Jersey lines with open-width slitters. For luxury outerwear, activewear, and infantswear, 34" 28G Double Jersey Interlock machines offer premium margins.