Previously in #Zipper101, we learned about the three types of zippers and all about Metal Zippers.
This episode, we will be learning in depth about the simple yet versatile Coil Zippers!
Coil zippers were known to be invented in 1940s, however, they were not commonly used until the 1960s.
In 1964, YKK launched the first coil fastener, which was a resin fastener with coil element, called Ziplon®.
What are Coil Zippers made up of?
We learned previously that the difference between the zippers is the teeth, where Metal Zippers are made of Metal teeth. The teeth of Coil Zippers on the other hand, are made of spiral plastic elements, such as polyester or nylon, making them lighter as compared to Standard Metal Zippers.
Coil zippers are highly versatile and can be used in a wide array of apparels to luggage and even automobiles. It can be said to be the most popular zipper due to these factors.
Coil Zippers manufacturing process
Like Metal zippers, the tape and teeth are created separately. The chain is completed when the teeth are sewn onto the zipper tape and dyed.
Similarly, YKK also offers NATULON® sustainable tape with coil zippers – which are made of recycled materials, either chemically, mechanically recycled or ocean sourced. YKK also offers various types of sustainable zippers like GREENRISE® which is partially made with the by-product of sugar production.
In upcoming Zipper101 posts, we will talk more about sustainable products! Stay tuned!
Different Variations of Coil Zippers
A standard coil zipper, made of spiral plastic elements like polyester or nylon, can be used in anything from apparel garments to luggage or sporting goods to automobiles.
CONCEAL® zipper is also called an invisible coil zipper as you cannot see the elements. This makes it popular and best suited for dresses and skirts as it does not disturb the garment design.
As CONCEAL® zippers are thinner than standard coil zippers, it is not recommended for backpacks, luggage and marine.
3. Coil Zipper Reverse Use
In place of CONCEAL® zippers, Coil Zipper Reverse Use can also be used as a type of zipper that can hide its elements.
As its name suggests, the Coil Zipper Reverse Use is created by using the reverse side of the zipper chain, looking like CONCEAL® zippers. However, unlike the CONCEAL® zipper, the Coil Zipper Reverse Use basically has similar strength to a standard zipper (unless otherwise specified).
They are normally recommended for apparel garments where hidden seams are preferred.
Other variations that stem from the Coil Zipper Reverse Use include Aquaguard® and PRIFA®.
For Aquaguard®, the PU film is applied to the reverse side of the zipper chain and the zipper goes through a DWR treatment, making it water repellent.
PRIFA® on the other hand, can be created by printing colourful designs onto the reverse side of the zipper chain.
The Racquet Coil zipper is specially designed for luggage or backpack applications where resistance to abrasion is a must.
This zipper was precision engineered to meet the toughest performance requirements.
The RC zipper has a unique oval shape that ensures durability. YKK takes the design to another level by placing the sewing thread in an indentation on the oval, protecting it from exposure to wear and tear.
Coil zippers, being greatly versatile, can be used in a wide range of products that suit your needs and we hope you’ve found a type of zipper that you like! Head over to our Digital Showroom for more product information and information on the various finishes!
Alternatively, contact your local YKK office for more information!
If Metal zippers and Coil Zippers are not your thing, fret not, we have the last type of zipper, VISLON®!
Stay tuned for the next #Zipper101!