Dubied NH
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| Dubied NH | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Dubied |
| Model | NH |
| Gauge | Variable (5-cut to 14-cut) |
| Type | V-Bed Industrial |
| Patterning | Manual / Basic Cam Selection |
| Needles | Variable (typically 80cm, 100cm, or 120cm) |
| Release Year | 1920 |
| Accessories | Weight Hangers, Two-Color Changer, Row Counter |
| Also Known As | Dubied Normal |
The Dubied NH is a professional manual V-bed flat knitting machine. Known as the "Normal" model (from which the 'N' is derived), it was designed for high-speed manual production of rib and jersey fabrics. It is the most common industrial manual flat machine found in heritage textile mills and fashion design schools worldwide.[1]
Comparison to the MM[edit]
The NH is mechanically simpler than the Dubied MM. While it lacks the advanced "Master" needle selection for complex jacquards, it is preferred for standard production due to its streamlined carriage:
- Carriage Weight: The NH carriage is significantly lighter than the MM carriage, reducing operator fatigue during long production runs.
- Cam Logic: Features a "2-track" cam system that allows for all basic stitches: All-needle rib, 1x1, 2x2, half-milano, full-cardigan, and tubular (circular) knitting.
- Speed: Because of the simplified selection logic, the NH can be operated at a higher stroke-per-minute rate than the MM.
Key Features[edit]
- Swiss Steel Bed: Like all Dubieds, the needle beds are machined to extreme tolerances, ensuring perfectly even stitch size across the entire width of the bed.
- Cast Iron Stand: The machine is mounted on a heavy, vibration-dampening cast iron frame, essential for maintaining timing during industrial use.
- Modular Accessories: Often equipped with a two-color yarn changer and a "high-tension" take-up spring system for industrial yarns.[2]
Technical Specifications[edit]
- Gauge: E-gauge (needles per French inch).
- Needle Type: Uses standard Dubied industrial needles with various butt heights depending on the specific sub-model.
- Pitch: 2.5mm to 5mm depending on the "cut" of the machine.
Maintenance[edit]
The NH is famous for being "indestructible" if properly oiled.
- Needle Channels: Lint buildup in the needle channels is the most common cause of "heavy" carriage movement. Regular vacuuming and "flossing" of the channels is required.
- Oil Standard: Must be lubricated with a clear, non-staining ISO 22 or ISO 32 grade spindle oil.
References[edit]
- ↑ "Dubied Machine Collections," Musée régional du Val-de-Travers. accessed Feb 2026
- ↑ Metcalf, S. "Swiss Precision: The Engineering of Dubied," Textile History Journal, 2005.