Metal Zipper

Definition and Overview

A metal zipper is a zipper in which metal teeth, also called elements, line up along the surface. It is easy to make use of the presence, luster, and aging changes of the teeth in design, and it is used not only for garment openings but also for bags and other items.

Compared with Vislon zippers, whose teeth are made of resin, and coil zippers, which use a spiral coil, it mainly differs in the material and appearance of the teeth. A metal zipper is basically a style in which the teeth are visible, and it is characterized by its ability to create a substantial look.

Structure and Parts

The basic components are the zipper tape that holds the teeth, the slider that interlocks the left and right teeth, and the top stop and bottom stop that secure the opening and closing ends. The pull is the part used to move the slider, and its shape and size affect ease of use and appearance.

For an open style, a separator is provided at the lower end. The separator is a component made up of parts such as the box and pin that separate and join the left and right sides. In product design, it is important to check not only the outer fabric but also the tape color, slider finish, and interference from the pull.

• Teeth: metal parts that interlock to join the left and right sides.
• Slider: a moving part that opens and closes the teeth.
• Top stop and bottom stop: stopping parts placed at the ends to keep the slider from coming off.
• Zipper tape: the fabric part that supports the teeth and is sewn to the textile.

Types and Specifications

Teeth size is a specification that indicates the size of the teeth. The larger the size, the greater the visual presence and opening and closing strength tend to be, but selection should be made by considering the textile thickness at the intended location, seam allowance, and the level of delicacy required.

Bottom-end specifications include closed zippers, which are closed with a bottom stop, and open zippers, in which the left and right sides can be separated by a separator. There are also double sliders that use two sliders and two-way separator styles that can be opened and closed from both the top and bottom, and these are selected according to the application.

Length is generally handled based on the effective portion where the teeth are continuous. However, whether the separator or tape ends are included varies by specification, so when placing an order, it is necessary to confirm the measurement standard and finished dimensions for each product.

Main Applications

They are used for the front fly of jeans and pants, the front center of jackets and blousons, leather accessories, and bag openings. In workwear-inspired or denim-style products, the color and size of the teeth may be incorporated into the design as a visible trim.

In garments, they are also used for pocket openings, cuffs, and hem slits. For areas close to the skin or lightweight textiles, the feel against the skin, weight, and visibility of the tape are considered, and coil zippers and concealed zippers are also compared.

Selection and Handling Precautions

Match the teeth size, tape width, and slider type to the textile thickness and sewing specifications. During sewing, it is important not to let the needle hit the teeth or the top and bottom stops. To prevent needle breakage and uneven stitching, clearly define the sewing position and seam allowance in advance in the specification sheet.

For products that are washed or garment-washed, check in advance for discoloration of metal parts, changes in the surface finish, and effects on other materials. Since the use of chlorine bleach and other conditions, leaving the product wet, and storage in humid places may affect the condition, evaluate the product according to its care instructions.

The length of the zipper should be designed separately from the finished dimensions of the attachment position, the stop position, and the amount sewn in. In particular, for open styles, the appearance and wearing comfort change depending on the position of the separator and the hem finish, so confirmation through prototypes is effective.

Frequently Asked Questions

How should metal zippers and coil zippers be used differently?

Metal zippers are suitable for areas where you want to show the teeth and create a strong presence or a metallic look. On the other hand, if priority is given to lightness, flexibility, and blending in with lightweight textiles, coil zippers are also an option. Compare them based on textile thickness, frequency of opening and closing, feel against the skin, and washing conditions.

Where do you measure the length of a metal zipper?

Generally, the standard is the length of the interlocked teeth from the top stop to the bottom stop. However, this differs from the overall length including the separator and tape ends on an open zipper. In specifications and when placing orders, clearly state the required length standard and check the labeling method for each product.

Can metal zippers be used for garment washing?

Whether they can be used depends on the type of metal, surface finish, washing method, detergent, and combination with the textile. If wash processing is planned, it is important to conduct tests or make prototypes under actual conditions before mass production to confirm discoloration, damage, staining, and effects on opening and closing performance.