Bernina 217 Industrial Sewing Machine Manual

The Bernina 217 is a professional-grade industrial sewing machine designed for heavy-duty applications with high-speed performance, precision stitching, and durable construction. This machine features a straight stitch system, automatic thread trimmer, needle positioning, variable speed control, and advanced tension adjustment. Suitable for leather, canvas, denim, and other heavy materials. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Threading and Bobbin 7. Stitching Operations 8. Maintenance & Lubrication 9. Safety Features 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Heavy-duty motor, automatic thread cutter, needle positioner, speed control pedal, bobbin winder, tension dials, and LED work light.

Feature	Description
Motor Type	Industrial servo motor with variable speed control
Stitch Type	Straight stitch only
Maximum Speed	Up to 2,500 stitches per minute
Thread Cutter	Automatic built-in thread trimmer
Needle Position	Automatic needle up/down positioning
Presser Foot	Heavy-duty spring with adjustable pressure
Bobbin System	Rotating hook with class 15 bobbin
Work Light	LED illumination for work area
Tension Control	Precision upper and lower tension adjustment
Stitch Length	Adjustable from 0-6mm

Installation

Unpack and inspect all components. Place on industrial table or stand.

Mount machine: Secure to industrial table using mounting screws provided.
Connect motor: Attach servo motor to machine head and secure properly.
Electrical connection: Plug into appropriate power outlet (check voltage requirements).
Install needle: Insert appropriate needle type and tighten securely.
Connect pedal: Attach speed control pedal to motor connector.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; use proper lifting techniques. Ensure stable mounting surface.

First-Time Setup

Power on machine; perform initial configuration.

Thread machine: Follow threading diagram for upper and lower threading.
Wind bobbin: Use built-in bobbin winder with proper thread tension.
Test stitch: Run machine on scrap fabric to check tension and stitch quality.
Adjust settings: Set stitch length, tension, and presser foot pressure as needed.
Calibrate motor: Set speed limits and needle position preferences.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from needle area during operation.

Specifications

Machine Type: Industrial Straight Stitch
Stitch Length: 0-6mm adjustable
Maximum Speed: 2,500 SPM
Needle System: 134-135 industrial needles
Presser Foot Lift: 10mm maximum
Bobbin Type: Class 15 transparent
Motor Power: 550W servo motor
Voltage: 110V/220V (depending on model)
Machine Weight: 35kg (77 lbs)
Work Space: 260mm x 130mm

Controls and Settings

Main controls: Power switch, speed control pedal, stitch length dial, tension dials, thread cutter button.

Adjustment Points: Stitch length dial (0-6mm), upper tension dial, presser foot pressure, needle position settings.

Motor Settings: Maximum speed limit, acceleration control, soft start/stop. Maintenance: Oil points, cleaning access, belt tension adjustment.

Threading and Bobbin

Proper threading is essential for optimal performance.

Upper threading: Follow numbered guides from spool to needle.
Bobbin winding: Place thread on spool pin, guide through tension, wind evenly.
Bobbin insertion: Drop bobbin into case with thread pulling counterclockwise.
Thread tension: Adjust upper and lower tension for balanced stitches.
Test run: Check thread flow and make adjustments as needed.

Tip: Use high-quality industrial thread for best results.

Stitching Operations

Basic and advanced stitching techniques.

Start sewing: Position fabric, lower presser foot, depress pedal gently.
Speed control: Use pedal pressure to control stitching speed.
Thread cutting: Press thread cutter button or use manual cutter.
Material handling: Guide fabric smoothly without pulling or pushing.
Needle changing: Always turn power off when changing needles.
Foot changes: Use appropriate presser foot for different materials.

WARNING! Never operate with damaged needle or without proper threading.

Maintenance & Lubrication

Regular maintenance ensures long machine life and optimal performance.

Daily: Clean lint and dust from hook area and feed dogs.
Weekly: Oil designated points with industrial sewing machine oil.
Monthly: Check belt tension and motor alignment.
Annually: Professional service for complete overhaul.

CAUTION! Use only recommended lubricants. Unplug machine before maintenance.

Safety Features

Built-in safety mechanisms: Motor overload protection, emergency stop capability, finger guard, and automatic shut-off for maintenance access.

Regulatory Information

CE certified for European markets. UL listed for North America. Complies with industrial machinery safety standards. Copyright © 2025 Bernina International AG. All rights reserved. For technical support, visit www.bernina.com or contact authorized service centers.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Thread breaking	Incorrect tension/damaged needle	Check tension settings; replace needle; verify threading.
Skip stitches	Wrong needle type/bent needle	Use correct needle system; replace damaged needle.
Machine jams	Thread buildup/improper bobbin	Clean hook area; reinsert bobbin properly.
Uneven stitches	Tension imbalance	Adjust upper and lower tension; check thread quality.
Motor not running	Power connection/pedal issue	Check power supply; inspect pedal cable; reset motor.

Reset: Turn power off and on to reset electronic controls.

Service: Contact authorized Bernina service center for professional repairs.