OVERLOCK MACHINE

Introduction
Overlock machine is a special purpose machine used for finishing edges and sometimes for seaming. It falls under the class 500. Stitch types in this class are formed with one or more groups of threads and have a general characteristics that loops from atleast one group of threads pass around the edge of the material.

Machine Terminology:
Bed: working surface. Differential feed Differential feed regulator Feed dog Handwheel Knives Dummy needle Head

Lower looper Needle bar Presser bar lifter Presser foot Presser foot lifter SPM Spreader Stitch length regulator Table Thread finger or stitch tongue Upper looper Width selection knob.

Basic features:
Generally called a serger in home sewing. Makes a class 500 that trims, stitch and overcast seams as they sew. Upto 1,500 stitches per minute. Stitch length vary from 0-5mm. Used to sew wide variety of items- from placemats to draperies and even sportswear. Stitch is very elastic and can stretch upto 300%.

 Decorative effects can be achieved using special threads in loopers. In some, upper knife can be rotated up to disengage the cutting action. Stitch can be made using 2,3,4, or 5 threads, depending on the no. of needles and loopers. Seams sewn with a combination of conventional and overlock stitching can be used in a variety of fabrics and garment styles.

Balanced stitch:

Selecting an overlock machine:

Two thread overlock:
Stitch type 503. One needle and one looper. Best for finishing seam edges and allowances. Has little effect on fabric drape, and rarely causes a pressing imprint. Frequently used for serging edges on mens slacks, lightweight fabrics or when using heavier decorative threads .

 Used when stitching active wear, elastic and lace. Also hems can be sewn. Unsuitable for seaming, because does not hold plies securely, causing seam grim when stressed. Can be adjusted to sew a rolled edge.
Looper

Three thread overlock:

Stitch type 504, most common overedge stitch. Also called basic serging stitch. One needle and two loopers. Stitch looks the same on both sides (good for reversibles). It has excellent stretch and recovery. Has narrow bight(3-5mm).

Stitch type 504

 Used for finishing edges as a narrow, decorative, rolled edge on napkins and scarves. Also for seaming budget garments. Most useful for sewing knits, wovens (not in areas that receive stress). Can be used as a stable seam finish on loosely constructed, ravel prone fabrics.

Upper looper

Lower looper

Four thread overlock:

It will stitch a chain stitch or a safety stitch as it stitches and overcasts seams. Two needles and two loopers. Can be converted to both two and three thread overlock. All 4 threads are necessary to sew a serged seam.
Upper looper

Lower looper

Four thread overlock with safety stitch:

Suitable for sewing both woven and knits. Can be used in areas that receive stress. Suitable for sewing blouses, shirts, skirts, dresses, pants, lingerie, actionwear, swimwear, and even sleepwear.

Four thread overlock and chainstitch:

The left needle and the lower looper form a 2-thread chain stitch. Suitable when sewing woven fabrics, even in area of stress. Stitch does not stretch therefore not used in knitted garment. Used when sewing shirts, blouses, skirts, pants, sleepwear, draperies. Used when fitting garments, since stitches are easily removed. Used when a wider seam allowance is desirable for strength (upholstery).

Five thread overlock:

A 2-thread chain stitch combined with a 3-thread overlock. 2 needles and 3 loopers. The left needle and lower looper form a 2-thread chain stitch. The seam is very durable, particularly for wovens. Can sew rolled edges with either 2-thread or 3-thread stitch. A very wide seam width is created when the chain is serged with 2 or 3 thread stitch.

Upper looper

Right lower looper

Left lower looper

Difference between portable and commercial overedge machine:

Portable (home serger) used in small workrooms and classrooms, commercial used in industries. Portable is less expensive, more versatile, smaller, and easily serviced. Commercial one is faster (Upto 8,500spm) than portable(1,500spm)overedge. Commercial is permanently mounted on table, whereas portable is set on top of the table. Differential feed ratios on commercial overedge have a greater range. Commercial one has a knee lift, while portable does not.

New developments:
Adopting high quality alloy steel Fully sealed needle bar drive mechanism supported at both ends. Stabilized sewing without needle oscillation is possible even at high speed and the fully sealed structure prevents oil scattering to eliminate oil-stained products.

Adopting oil forcing revolving device:

The new design assures fully lubrication of the needle bar & prevent it from oil leaking problem .

Automatically oiling system with filter pump.

Thread trimming & suction automatically by airpressure system.

(OPTIONAL ATTACHMENT)

The new type upper threading structure:

New design of the upper looper mechanism provides easier threading operation . Besides, the looper inserts from the front, which makes the replacing work simple & easy.

Disadvantages of overedge machines:

Cant be used to attach patch pockets or for top stitching as it would trim along the seam line thus destroying the fabric.

High thread users.

Seams stitched must be pressed to one side rather than being pressed open and flat.