Auto Oiler Systems in Circular Knitting Machines

In modern circular knitting machines, the auto oiler—also known as a lubricator oiler—is an essential component of the lubrication system. Its primary function is to deliver precise, controlled amounts of lubricating oil to high-speed moving parts, ensuring stable operation, minimizing mechanical wear, and extending the overall service life of the machine. As knitting machines continue to operate at higher speeds and finer gauges, the importance of reliable and efficient auto oiler systems has become increasingly significant.

1. Structural Components of an Auto Oiler

Although designs may vary depending on machine type and manufacturer, a typical auto oiler used in circular knitting machines consists of several key components:

1.1 Oil Reservoir and Inlet Port

The oil reservoir or inlet port connects the auto oiler to a centralized lubrication system or oil tank. It supplies clean, filtered lubricating oil at a controlled pressure, ensuring consistent oil flow during continuous machine operation.

1.2 Metering Unit (Lubrication Control Mechanism)

The metering unit is the core of the auto oiler(https://www.eastinoknittingmachine.com/auto-oiler-for-circular-knitting-machine-product/). It precisely controls the amount of oil delivered per cycle or per machine revolution. Accurate metering is critical to achieving sufficient lubrication while avoiding excessive oil consumption, oil leakage, or fabric contamination.

1.3 Distribution Channels and Nozzles

Internal oil channels distribute the lubricating oil (https://www.eastinoknittingmachine.com/auto-oiler-for-circular-knitting-machine-product/）to multiple outlet nozzles. These nozzles direct oil accurately to critical components such as needles, sinkers, cam tracks, cylinder grooves, and dial mechanisms. Proper nozzle placement ensures that lubrication reaches high-friction areas without overspray.

1.4 Check Valves and Pressure Regulators

Check valves prevent oil backflow, maintaining system integrity, while pressure regulators stabilize oil delivery under varying machine speeds and operating conditions. This is especially important for high-speed and electronic circular knitting machines.

1.5 Housing and Sealing Components

Auto oiler（https://www.eastinoknittingmachine.com/auto-oiler-for-circular-knitting-machine-product/） housings are typically manufactured from aluminum alloy or stainless steel to ensure durability and corrosion resistance. High-quality seals prevent oil leakage and protect the system from dust, lint, and fiber contamination common in knitting environments.

Advanced auto oiler systems may also incorporate pneumatic or electronically controlled elements, allowing synchronization with machine speed and operating cycles.

 

---

 

2. Applications in Circular Knitting Machines

Auto oilers and lubricator oilers（https://www.eastinoknittingmachine.com/auto-oiler-for-circular-knitting-machine-product/） are widely applied across different types of circular knitting machines:

2.1 Single Jersey Circular Knitting Machines

In single jersey machines, auto oilers provide continuous lubrication to needles, sinkers, and cam tracks, supporting stable high-speed fabric production and reducing needle wear.

2.2 Double Jersey Circular Knitting Machines

Double jersey machines involve more complex needle and dial movements. Precise lubrication from a well-designed lubricator oiler is essential to reduce friction, heat buildup, and mechanical stress.

2.3 Electronic Jacquard Circular Knitting Machines

Electronic jacquard systems rely on accurate needle selection and high-speed actuators. Consistent lubrication from an auto oiler ensures smooth operation and maintains selection accuracy and system reliability.

2.4 High-Speed and Fine-Gauge Machines

As machine speed increases and needle gauge becomes finer, lubrication tolerance decreases. Auto oilers play a critical role in preventing premature wear, needle breakage, and cam damage in these advanced machines.