Have you ever wondered about the different types of Metal Zippers?
Previously in Zipper101, we learnt about the three types of zippers YKK has. This episode, we will be learning in depth about the most classic zipper, Metal zippers!
Metal zippers have the longest history, dating back to 1913, when the fastener was first invented by Swedish-born engineer, Gideon Sundback. He developed a zipper using metal teeth instead of hooks and eyes and further patented his invention in 1917. The name “Zipper” was first used by B. F. Goodrich to describe a rubber boot which used Sundback’s fastener.
YKK (Yoshida Kogyo K.K.), formally known as San-S Shokai was founded by Tadao Yoshida in Nihonbashi, Tokyo in 1934 and that was the start of the production and sale of fastening products, which was also the start of YKK® Metal Zippers!
Due to its durability and strength, metal zippers are commonly found on jeans. However, these zippers suit a wide variety of applications such as jackets, luggage and more.
What are Metal zippers made up of?
Zippers in general consist of two rows of teeth on strips of tape and a slider that draws the teeth together.
Metal or plastic parts are also affixed to the top and bottom ends of the zippers to prevent the slider from leaving the zipper chain. We call them “Top-Stop” and “Bottom Stop”!
Zipper tapes are usually manufactured from polyester fabric. Depending on the type of use, YKK offers other tape, including cotton tape, vinyl tape or synthetic fiber tape.
Aiming for climate neutrality by 2050, YKK also offers recycled zipper tape, which is part of the NATULON® product line. NATULON® product lines are designed for customers who want to increase the recycled content of their products, as they are made from recycled materials such as PET bottles. We will talk more about NATULON® products in upcoming Zipper 101 posts! Stay tuned!
The main difference between Metal, Coil and VISLON® zippers is the teeth.
As its name suggests, metal zipper teeth are made up of metal. These metal elements can be made of Brass, Aluminum or Nickel.
Metal Zipper Manufacturing Process
After the metal teeth (elements) are made, it is attached to the tape and assembled with a slider.
YKK has achieved an integrated production system that encompasses materials, manufacturing equipment and products. YKK has established a process that enables the stable provision of products of a quality sought by our customers, anywhere in the world.
Different variations of YKK metal zippers
YKK offers various metals such as: golden brass, nickel, aluminium, and manganese.
To keep up with customer’s demands, variations of Metal Zippers were invented, and we will walk you through some of YKK’s metal zipper variations.
Classic, standard metal zippers, which come in various teeth colours to suit your needs. These zippers are suitable for applications with thick fabric, such as leather jackets and bags.
YZiP® are specifically made for jeans and trousers, where its teeth are thicker than a standard metal zipper, making the zipper stronger, to withstand harsh denim washing processes.
EXCELLA® zippers are YKK’s highest quality metal zippers. Each teeth is polished and plated before attaching to the tape, giving a luxurious appearance on clothing or handbags.
There are two types of teeth shape, a single type, and a double type, and are available in a variety of finishes.
EXCELLA® Light is a type of EXCELLA® zipper that is made of aluminum alloy. Aluminum retains the strength of Excella® but is lighter as compared, suitable for apparel, handbags and even backpacks.
As their teeth are anodized, it makes it possible to achieve rich surface colour variation, making it possible to have different colours in a multi colour chain.
EVERBRIGHT® zippers are gloss polished zippers which are smooth to the touch, glossy and have higher corrosion resistance compared to Standard Metal zippers, thus recommended for luggage.
EVERBRIGHT® zippers are offered in Anti-Nickel chains as well, making them also suitable for garments.
By using EVERBRIGHT® zipper, your garments and luggage will look luxurious and more stylish.
Metal zippers suit a wide variety of products, and we aim to find the right zipper for you! 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 are not your thing, stay tuned for Zipper101 on Coil Zippers and VISLON®!
