Type of zipper

A zipper is a common device used to join two edges of fabric or other flexible materials together. Used on clothing (such as jackets and jeans), luggage and other bags, camping gear (such as tents and sleeping bags), and many other items, zippers come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and colors.

There are several types of zippers

coil zipper

Now makes up the majority of global zipper sales. The slider runs on two coils on each side; the teeth are formed by the windings of the coils. Two basic types of coils are used: a coil in the form of a spiral, usually with a string inside the coil, and a trapezoidal coil, also known as the Luhrmann type. Coil zippers are made of polyester coils, so they are also called polyester zippers. Nylon used to be used, although now only polyester is used, this type is still called nylon zipper.

Invisible zipper

The teeth are hidden behind the tape, so the zipper is invisible. It is also known as a hidden zipper. The color of the tape matches the color of the clothing, as do the sliders and pull tabs. This type of zipper is common in skirts and dresses. Invisible zippers are usually coil zippers. They’re also seeing increased use in the military and emergency services, as they maintain the look of button-down shirts while offering a quick and easy fastening system. Regular invisible zippers use a lighter lace-like fabric on the zipper tape instead of the heavier woven fabric that is common on other zippers.

Reverse coil zipper

A variation of the coil zipper. In a reverse coil zipper, the coil is on the reverse (back) side of the zipper and the slider works on the flat side of the zipper (usually the back, now the front). Unlike invisible zippers where the coils are also on the back, the reverse coils show stitching on the front, and the slider can accommodate a variety of sliders (due to the smaller slider attachment, the invisible zipper requires a small teardrop pull). Waterproof zippers are usually configured with reverse coils so that the pvc coating can cover the stitching. Rubber or PVC coated reverse zippers are called waterproof zippers.

metal zipper

It is the classic type of zipper that is mainly found in jeans and pencil cases today. The teeth are not coils, but individual pieces of metal, molded and attached to the zipper tape at regular intervals. Metal zippers are made of brass, aluminum and nickel, depending on the metal used to make the teeth. All these zippers are basically made of flat wire. A special type of metal zipper is made from preformed wire, usually brass, but sometimes other metals. Only a few companies in the world have this technology. This preformed metal zipper is mainly used for high-end denim clothes, work clothes, etc., which requires high strength and wash ability of the zipper.

Plastic molded zipper

Same as metal zippers, only the teeth are plastic instead of metal. #Metal zipper# Metal zipper can be painted to match the surrounding fabric; plastic zipper can be made of any color plastic. Plastic zippers primarily use polyacetal resins, but other thermoplastic polymers such as polyethylene are also used. Most commonly used in pencil cases, small plastic bags and other useful stationery.

Open zipper

Use a box and pin mechanism to lock the sides of the zipper in place, usually in jackets. The opening zipper can be any of the above types.

Two-way opening zipper

Instead of a latch and pin box at the bottom, a two-way open zipper has a puller on each end of the zipper tape. A person wearing a garment with this zipper can slide the bottom slider up to accommodate more leg movement without stressing the pins and boxes of the one-way opening zipper. It is most often used for long coats.

Two-way closed zipper

Closed at both ends; they are often used in luggage and can have one or two sliders on the zipper.

Magnetic zipper

Allows one-handed closure for use in sportswear.

Zipper specification classification

Zippers come in many different tooth sizes. The size is given an integer closer to its width. Each tooth size has a defined size. Examples: #3, #4, #4.5, #5, #6, #7, #8, #10 and beyond. (#3 is smaller, #10 is larger)

Size 1-4, the general size is small, suitable for formal wear, cushions, handbags, skirts, dresses, trousers.

Size 5-7, generally medium in size, suitable for jackets, duffel bags, tents, purses, backpacks, luggage, boots.

Size 8-10, generally larger in size, suitable for industrial clothing, vehicle covers, upholstery, canvas tents