Silver Reed RT 1
| Silver Reed RT-1 | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Silver Reed |
| Model / Name | RT-1 |
| Type | Ribber Tension Unit |
| Compatibility | Silver Reed SRP50, SRP60, SRP60N Ribbers |
| Release Year | 1970s-1990s |
The Silver Reed RT-1 is a crucial tension unit designed for use with Silver Reed ribbing attachments. It plays a vital role in ensuring consistent yarn tension when knitting rib stitches, which is essential for producing even, high-quality fabric.
Overview[edit]
The RT-1 is a small, yet indispensable, component of the Silver Reed ribber carriage. Its primary function is to provide the necessary drag on the yarn being fed to the ribber needles, preventing slack and ensuring that stitches are formed uniformly across the entire needle bed. Without a properly functioning tension unit, ribbing can become uneven, with loose or dropped stitches, particularly when working with finer yarns or complex stitch patterns.
Function and Design[edit]
The RT-1 typically consists of a spring-loaded tension disc system, a yarn guide, and an arm that attaches to the ribber carriage. Yarn is threaded through the unit, passing between the tension discs, which apply a controlled amount of friction. The spring mechanism allows for adjustment of this tension, accommodating various yarn weights and desired fabric densities. The design ensures that the yarn feeds smoothly and consistently to the ribber needles as the carriage moves across the bed.
Installation and Usage[edit]
The RT-1 unit is designed to be easily attached to the ribber carriage, usually by sliding it into a designated slot or clipping it onto a specific point. Once installed, the yarn for the ribber is threaded through the unit's guides and tension discs before being fed to the needles. The tension can be adjusted by rotating a dial or knob, which compresses or releases the spring on the tension discs. Proper tension setting is critical and often requires experimentation based on the yarn type, stitch pattern, and desired fabric outcome.
Maintenance[edit]
Regular maintenance of the RT-1 ensures its longevity and optimal performance. This includes: * Cleaning: Periodically remove any lint, dust, or yarn fibers that may accumulate between the tension discs, as these can impede smooth yarn flow and affect tension accuracy. * Inspection: Check the tension spring for any signs of damage or weakening. Ensure the tension discs are clean and free from nicks or burrs that could snag the yarn. * Lubrication: While not typically requiring lubrication on the tension discs themselves, ensuring the moving parts of the carriage it attaches to are clean and smooth will contribute to overall performance.
Compatibility[edit]
The Silver Reed RT-1 tension unit is specifically designed for use with Silver Reed ribbing attachments. It is compatible with the following popular Silver Reed ribber models: * Silver Reed SRP50 Ribber * Silver Reed SRP60 Ribber * Silver Reed SRP60N RibberThese ribbers, in turn, are compatible with a wide range of Silver Reed standard gauge knitting machines, including models like the SK280, SK700, SK840, and others. The RT-1 is an integral part of the ribber system, ensuring consistent tension for all ribbing techniques on these machines.