By Digital Output Staff
Part 2 of 2
There are a lot of options available when it comes to finishing fabric, this includes the more traditional sewing machine as well as no-sew techniques like welding and tape. Before committing to the right technology, print providers need to review the best fit for their business.
Round Up
Here we include sewing, welding, and tape options from assorted vendors.
Budnick Converting, Inc. offers its Banner Ups KederTape no-sew, peel-and-stick keder. It is a pressure-sensitive keder that can be applied with no equipment. The KederTape is cut to the required size, liner is peeled, and stuck along the edge of a silicone edge graphic (SEG) textile. Users then install the graphic into BannerUps’ SEGDesign frame.
Global Imaging distributes Miller Weldmaster’s DigiTran, a complete semi-automated sewing system, which can also be configured as a semi-operated welding system or combination of both. Released in 2014, the conveyor on the device is synchronized with the sewing head for smooth transport while sewing. Tension-free keder feeding, automatic backstitch, and thread cutting make the production of SEG frames quick and easy. Additional features include needle cooling for faster sewing, multiple seam configuration, easy-to-use touch controls, and a driven roller for large graphics.
JUKI offers both sew and non-sew models. The JUKI LU-2266N-7 is the company’s latest two-needle, long arm, unison feed lockstitch machine with automatic threat trimming, a vertical axis hook, and distance from the machine head to the needle of 650 millimeters. The device is available in a single-needle version as well—the LU-2216N. For no-sew, JUKI offers the Juki/H&H model AI-191, a hot air sealing machine good for up to four layers of taping. It features a three-dimensional electronic nozzle positioning system, differential speed top and bottom roller, color touch screen interface, digital tension device, and pressure gauge display.
Kaplan Sewing Machine Co., Inc.’s SK Highlead GC20518PUL for banners and SEG is a two needle, compound lock stitch machine. Equipped with a built-in cloth puller, long panels and hems finish evenly. It is available with different size hemming attachments, pole pocket hemmers, lap seam guide, and hemmers with rope insertion. The SK Typical L300U is for banners and is a two needle, compound feed chain stitch machine. Similar to the SK Highlead GC20518PUL, it is equipped with a built-in cloth puller and available with different size hemming attachments. The SK Highlead GC-0518-B-SEG is a high-speed, single needle, needle feed machine. It features a special guide attachment for feeding and attaching a silicone edge to fabric to produce SEG panels.
Sewn Products offers both sewing machines and ultrasonic welders. Its Richpeace industrial sewing machines are built for long-term, professional sewing tasks. For welders, it offers many different models from hand held units to fully automated stand alone units. Each unit is customized to each customer’s application.
Finish Up
From high- to low-end, heavy- to medium-duty, the right device is available for any print provider looking to discontinue outsourcing fabric finishing capabilities and bring sewing, welding, or tape technologies in house.
Sep2020, Digital Output
