Industrial sewing machine

Types of industrial sewing machines

An industrial sewing machine stitches multiple layers of fabric and heavy materials together. It is also used for tasks such as buttonholing, button sewing, bar tacking, quilting, smocking, as well as automatic sewing. The machine is designed for continuous and repetitive use, unlike household machines. There are many types of industrial sewing machines for different purposes and tasks.

• Lockstitch machine: Lockstitch machines are the most commonly used industrial sewing machines. It is used to join two pieces of fabric together by using two threads, one of the threads is a bobbin thread. Lockstitch machines give a strong seam, and the stitches are even. They can work with different types of fabric, such as cotton, wool, silk, jute, and other synthetic fibers. Lockstitch machines are also used for embroidery and quilting work.
• Overlock sewing machine: Overlock machines are also called sergers. They have multiple threads and loops and are used to cut the fabric while sewing the edges. This helps to prevent the fabric from fraying. Overlock machines are often used to finish the edges of clothing and other textile products. They can sew together two or more layers of fabric at once, while cutting off the extra edge of the fabric. This machine is usually used for stretchy materials, like knits, as well as for seams.
• Chain-stitch sewing machine: Chain-stitch machines use only one thread, and the second thread is a loop. This type of machine is mostly used for hems and decorative purposes.
• Walking foot sewing machine: Walking foot machines are also known as compound feed or unison feed machines. They have a presser foot that moves with the feed dog to help move the top layer of fabric together with the bottom layer. This helps prevent slippage and uneven stitching when working with thick or multiple layers of fabric. Walking foot machines are often used for leather, upholstery, canvas, and other heavy fabrics.
• Post-bed sewing machine: The post-bed industrial sewing machine is designed with an elevated vertical column (post) that supports the machine's mechanism. The post, or pillar, serves as a pivot point for the sewing machine's head. Post-bed machines are useful for stitching cylindrical objects like cuffs, shoes, and gloves. They are also good for decorative stitching such as quilting and smocking.
• Bar-tack sewing machine: A bar tack is a reinforcement stitch usually sewn with a bartack sewing machine. The bar tack sewing machine is designed to sew strong stitches in a specific pattern. They are used for reinforcing areas that experience stress, such as belt loops, pockets, and buttonholes. Bar tackers are also great for decorative stitching and embroidery.
• Blind stitch machine: A blind stitch is a type of sewing stitch that is nearly invisible on the right side of the fabric. Blind stitch machines are used for hemming garments. They sew a stitch that is invisible on one side of the fabric and a straight stitch on the other side.

Specifications and maintenance of industrial sewing machines

The following are some common specifications of industrial sewing machines and how to maintain them:

• Stitch type and length:

Amongst the major specifications of an industrial sewing machine are the stitch type and length. Varieties of stitch types are produced by industrial sewing machines. The two most common stitch types are lockstitch and chainstitch. Lockstitch is a form of sewing in which the top thread interlocks with the bottom thread within the fabric. Chainstitch involves a single thread looped on the bottom side of the fabric. The length of the stitch is another important specification. The length of the stitch is usually measured in millimeters and can be varied according to the requirements of a specific fabric.

• Speed and motor power:

The speed of an industrial sewing machine is measured in stitches per minute (SPM). The speed of the machine can range from 3,000 to 5,000 stitches per minute. The power of an industrial sewing machine is measured in watts. The power of the machine is determined by the type of material it can sew as well as the thickness. The greater the power, the greater the thickness of the material the machine can handle. The power of an industrial sewing machine can range from 400 to 1,000 watts.

• Presser foot lift and pressure:

The presser foot lift of an industrial sewing machine is the highest distance the presser foot can be raised. The height of the presser foot can be adjusted according to the thickness of the material being sewn. The presser foot pressure is the force exerted on the fabric by the presser foot. It can be adjusted to achieve the desired seam quality. The presser foot lift and pressure can be adjusted to ensure that the sewing is done evenly and consistently on the fabric.

• Thread type and size:

Industrial sewing machines can use a variety of threads. The most common threads used in industrial sewing machines are polyester, cotton, and poly-cotton. Threads are available in various sizes, which are denoted by numbers. The sizes of the thread are often used to indicate the weight of the thread. Threads of various sizes can be used to sew different types of materials.

• Home vs. industrial sewing machines:

While home sewing machines have less powerful motors and are designed to sew lighter materials, industrial sewing machines are built to handle heavy use and a wide variety of materials. An industrial machine can be used to sew leather, canvas, and other thick fabrics. Because of the heavy materials, these machines are used to sew. They are built with metal frames and parts that are more durable than those of home sewing machines. With heavy usage, industrial sewing machines can develop problems. Regular maintenance can help to minimize the risk of repair and keep the machine running smoothly. The following parts of the industrial sewing machine should be checked and maintained: the needle, bobbin, and bobbin case, the presser foot, feed dogs, and throat plate, the motor and drive belts, the thread tension, and any other parts of the sewing machine.

Scenarios

Industrial sewing machines are widely used in various industries and applications.

• Apparel Manufacturing:

Industrial sewing machines play a significant role in apparel manufacturing. They are used for sewing garments, such as shirts, pants, dresses, and outerwear. Different types of industrial sewing machines are used for various sewing operations, such as straight stitching, overlocking, buttonholing, and attaching buttons and zippers.

• Automotive Upholstery:

Industrial sewing machines are used in the automotive industry to sew upholstery, including seats, headliners, carpets, and door panels. These heavy-duty sewing machines are designed to handle thick and tough materials like leather, vinyl, and canvas commonly used in car interiors.

• Furniture Manufacturing:

Industrial sewing machines are also widely used in the furniture manufacturing industry. They are used to sew upholstery, such as sofa covers, chair cushions, and drapes. Specialized sewing machines for furniture can handle heavy fabrics and materials and are designed for high-volume production.

• Shoe and Leather Goods Manufacturing:

Industrial sewing machines are essential tools in the shoe and leather goods manufacturing industry. They are used to sew leather, faux leather, and other materials to make shoes, bags, belts, and other accessories. Industrial sewing machines for leather are built to handle thick and dense materials, such as leather, and are equipped with features like top and bottom feed mechanisms and adjustable presser feet.

• Textile and Upholstery:

Industrial sewing machines are used in the textile and upholstery industry for sewing curtains, bedding, and other home textiles. They can sew multiple layers of heavy fabrics and achieve precise stitches and seams. Whether for small workshops or large-scale production, industrial sewing machines are efficient and reliable tools for meeting the demands of various industries.

How to choose industrial sewing machines

When it comes to choosing industrial sewing machines, buyers should pay attention to the following aspects.

• Application needs analysis

Firstly, users should have a clear understanding of their application needs, such as materials, stitching requirements, production volume, etc. For example, if the user needs to sew thick materials, he/she needs to choose a heavy-duty industrial sewing machine to ensure that the machine can meet the required sewing thickness. If the user focuses on high-volume production and needs to improve efficiency, he/she should choose an industrial sewing machine with automation and advanced features, such as automatic threading or cutting. By choosing a machine with the right features and capabilities, the sewing process can be optimized for efficiency and quality.

• Machine type selection

Based on the needs of the application, the user should choose the right type of industrial sewing machine. For example, if the user needs to sew leather or canvas, he or she should choose an industrial walking foot sewing machine that can effectively handle difficult-to-feed materials. If the user needs to perform specific sewing tasks, such as button sewing or pattern sewing, he or she should choose a machine with corresponding features, such as a button sewing function or a computerized embroidery machine, to meet his or her specific needs.

• Machine quality and reliability

Users should choose a machine with high quality and reliability to ensure long-term stability and performance. It is important for users to select a machine from a reputable brand with a good track record and strong after-sales service. They should also purchase machines with appropriate certifications to ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations.

• Machine ergonomics and safety

Users should consider the ergonomics and safety of the machine. They should choose a machine that is easy to operate and adjust, and provides a comfortable working environment for operators. At the same time, users should pay attention to the safety features of the machine, such as emergency stop buttons and automatic needle positioning, to ensure the safety of the operator during use.

Industrial sewing machine FAQ

Q1: What is the difference between industrial and domestic sewing machines?

A1: Industrial sewing machines for sale are more durable and faster than domestic machines and are designed for long-term use in a factory setting. They can also handle heavier fabrics and materials.

Q2: What are the different types of industrial sewing machines?

A2: There are many different types of industrial sewing machines on the market today, including lockstitch, overlock, coverstitch, blind stitch, buttonhole, and button sewing machines. Each machine is used for a specific purpose and has unique features and specifications.

Q3: Are there computerized industrial sewing machines?

A3: Yes, industrial sewing machines are increasingly computerized. This means that the machine can be programmed to perform various tasks automatically, such as cutting and sewing. Computerized industrial sewing machines are becoming more popular because they can improve efficiency and accuracy.

Q4: What is the difference between a walking foot and a regular sewing machine?

A4: A walking foot sewing machine has a special mechanism that helps feed multiple layers of fabric through the machine evenly. This is especially helpful when working with thick or bulky materials. Regular industrial sewing machines rely on the feed dogs to move the fabric. A walking foot machine can help prevent stitching irregularities and ensure a more even seam.