Abstract: A first and second indexing gauge for use in positioning air blowing units relative to the needles of a circular sliver knitting machine. An air blowing unit is attached to the machine so as to be both vertically and rotationally adjusted relative to the knitting cylinder. Once the machine has been initially calibrated, the first and second indexing gauges can be used to quickly and easily reposition the air blowing units relative to the needles so as to allow the machine to knit a different fabric and/or pattern with minimal down time and wasted raw materials.

Abstract: A circular sliver knitting machine having a manifold for controlling multidirectional airflow. The manifold includes a first and a second air nozzle unit for directing air onto the plurality of needles from radially opposed sides. The manifold includes a cross bar having attachment bars for attaching the cross bar to the frame of a circular sliver knitting machine. The cross bar has a first cross bar aperture located lo therein so as to receive air from an air supply unit. A cover is secured to the cross bar forming a seal therebetween, such that the cover cooperates with the cross bar to form a first plenum and a second plenum therebetween. The cover has a cover aperture for receiving air from the air supply unit. The cross bar also has a first and a second adjustable valve for controlling the flow of air from the air supply unit to each of the first and second blowing units.