Threading an Industrial Sewing Machine
Regardless of the size and shape of an industrial sewing machine, threading it is a very straightforward process that can be performed with relative ease. Industrial sewing machines are mainly used in garment production and industrial textile manufacturing. In comparison to domestic machines, they have larger bobbins, needle plates, and hooks, and feature various stitch types, needle positions and adjustable presser feet and feed dog heights that can be set in order to produce a range of sewing effects.
Essentially, to thread an industrial machine, the user must first put a thread on the bobbin and then pass the same thread through certain parts of the machine, fixing it in place with a tension assembly. The thread should then be passed through a needle, leading to the completion of the process. To do this, it is important to follow a specific set of steps.
Step 1: Prepare the Thread
To begin threading, it is necessary to cut a piece of appropriate industrial thread and tie it to the bobbin. Depending on the kind of thread used, a knot can be made at the end of the thread to securely attach it to the bobbin. Care should be taken to ensure the thread does not become wrapped around the bobbin and it should be cut so that it fits perfectly across.
Step 2: Attach the Thread to the Spool Pin
To do this, the thread must be placed at the end of the spool pin, between two pins that form part of the tension assembly. The thread then needs to be passed along the portion of the machine until it reaches the tension assembly. The lower part of the assembly should be removed and the thread passed through the upper part.
Step 3: Put the Thread Through the Take-Up Lever
The take-up lever is an arm that moves up and down with each stitch. Its primary role is to manage the tension of the upper thread. It’s important that the thread is put through the take-up lever in order to manage the tension correctly.
Step 4: Put the Thread Through the Needle Eye
Once the thread has been put through the take-up lever, it should then be inserted into the needle’s eye. Holding the thread taut, with the help of a needle threader, can make this step easier.
Step 5: Put the Thread Through the Tension Assembly
The last step is to thread the tension assembly. The thread should once again be passed through the upper part of the assembly and the same process should be repeated for the lower part, making sure that the tension is adjusted correctly. Once this is completed, the industrial sewing machine is ready to be used.
Tips and Tricks
The key to successful threading of an industrial sewing machine is to pay close attention to the tension of the thread. If the tension is incorrect, the stitches may not be formed correctly. It’s also important to use the right kind of thread for the machine, as using the wrong kind of thread can cause damage to the machine.
Professional Assistance
Industrial sewing machines are complex pieces of machinery and therefore require expert knowledge to use and maintain. Assistance from a professional can help to ensure the user gets the best out of their machine. Professional technicians can check that the machine is functioning correctly and can diagnose and solve any issues that may arise.
Safety Procedures
The safety of the user is a priority when using an industrial sewing machine and therefore certain procedures must be observed. The most important safety measures to be aware of include avoiding loose clothing or jewelry and ensuring that the machine is not left unattended while in operation. Users should always use the correct protective equipment while operating the machine and should ensure that all safety instructions are followed.
Regular Maintenance
To ensure proper performance and longevity for the industrial sewing machine, regular maintenance should be carried out. Professional technicians can help to service the machine, check and replace components and lubricate parts as required. This will help to keep the machine in good condition and can even help reduce downtime and repair costs in the long run.
How to Put a Needle in an Industrial Sewing Machine
To put a needle in an industrial machine, the user must first make sure that the needle is in the appropriate position before pushing it up into the holder until it clicks into place. Different types of needles can be used depending on the type of fabric being sewn, and there are needles to suit the needs of all kinds of sewing projects. It is important to make sure the needle is properly aligned and that it is the correct size and type.
Thread Tension Settings
The thread tension settings on an industrial sewing machine will depend on the kind of fabric being used, with the main types being thick or thin. A thick fabric will require a lower thread tension, whereas a thinner fabric will require a slightly higher thread tension. The tension should always be adjusted and tested on a scrap piece of fabric before sewing on the actual garment or material.
Stitch Length
The stitch length refers to how far apart each stitch is placed and this too is determined by the type of fabric being used. Generally, the length of the stitch should be between 1.5 to 2.5 millimeters. It is recommended to test the stitch length on a scrap piece of fabric before sewing on the actual material. Cover stitches, hems and topstitching usually require a longer stitch length, whereas regular stitches should be set at a shorter length.
Types of Stitch Patterns
Industrial machines are capable of producing a range of stitch patterns, from plain straight and zigzag stitches to fancy decorative stitches. The key to choosing the right stitch type is to use the material’s pattern for guidance. For example, if the material has a pattern with dashes, a zigzag stitch should be used. Before using a stitch type, it is important to test it on a scrap piece of fabric in order to make sure it produces the desired result.
