Shunfa Flat-lock Folder Type Machine

🛠 Basic Instruction / Operating Steps

Here’s a general instruction-guide for setting up and using a folder-type flat lock machine. Adapt for your model accordingly.

1. Inspection & Setup

• Ensure the machine is properly installed on a stable table, motor connected, safety guards in place.

• Check that the folder attachment (if present) is mounted correctly and aligned with the needle position.

• Thread the machine according to the manufacturer’s diagram: upper looper, lower looper, needle, etc. For flat-lock machines the loopers often form the “flat” stitches.

• Set the fabric folder width: The folder should fold the fabric edge to the required width (e.g., 3 mm, 4 mm) before the needle/loopers stitch. Adjust the folder guide so the fold is correct.

• Set the presser foot and feed dog as appropriate: ensure fabric moves smoothly and the foot pressure is correct.

• Choose the needle size and type suitable for your fabric (knit, heavy, light).

• Ensure the auto trimmer (if your model has it) is working: the cutting blade should engage after stitching end, and clear trimmed thread safely.

2. Adjust Machine for Fabric & Stitch

• Select stitch length: For example, for flat lock seams you might set a shorter stitch length because you want the seam to lie flat and not pucker.

• Adjust tension of loopers/needle thread: Flat lock seams require balanced thread tensions so loops lie flat and even.

• Adjust differential feed (if machine supports) especially for stretchy fabrics to avoid wavy edges.

• Test stitch on a sample of your fabric: feed a run, stop, inspect the fold, stitch quality, loop formation, edge finish.

• Fine-tune folder alignment or tension until the fold is even, the stitch covers the fold, and the seam lies flat.

3. Production Operation

• Place the folded edge of the fabric under the folder guide; ensure it feeds straight.

• Start the machine; monitor first few inches to confirm the fold is consistent and stitches are neat.

• Keep an eye on the trimming mechanism (if present) – ensure trimmed waste is cleared and not interfering with stitches.

• Periodically check for lint build-up between folder and knife, and clean it — too much buildup may cause misfolds.

• At the end of each fabric piece or batch: stop machine, clean area, check blade sharpness (if folder has blade), check oiling/lubrication.

4. Maintenance

• Daily: Clean lint from folder, feed dog, loopers, under presser foot.

• Weekly: Check blade (if applicable) for sharpness and alignment; check folder guide wear.

• Monthly: Check servo/drive motor belt (if applicable) or gear for wear; inspect presser foot and feed dog for wear.

• Use the lubricant/oil as recommended in the manual; many industrial machines require oiling at specified points.

• Replace needles regularly (every few hours) to keep stitch quality high and avoid skipped stitches.

• Keep proper records of usage and maintenance to avoid unexpected breakdown.