Classifications of Zipper Teeth

March 05, 2018 BY TRIMS CO.,LIMITED Zippers Knowledge

We have seen many invisible zippers, waterproof zippers, decorative zippers, two-way zippers, open-end zippers, closed-end zippers. They may be made of different materials, and they may have different teeth. Let's learn zipper teeth together.

There are 3 basic classifications of zipper`s teeth, based on the material of which it is constructed as below:

1. Molded Plastic Teeth

The teeth are made from molded high-performance resin, which is individually injected and fused directly onto the tape of the zipper. Plastic teeth are extremely durable and flexible, making it ideal for heavier garments and outdoor applications. Plastic teeth can again be divided into five varieties:

Plastic molded teeth. The teeth are constructed from polyacetal, directly molded onto the tape.

Plastic extruded teeth. The string of the plastic teeth is extruded before stitched onto the tape.

LFC teeth. Also called L-type teeth. Built with a special coil. It is placed around the edge of the tape.

CFC teeth. Made with a spiral coil.

Woven-in coil teeth. The coil is woven directly onto the zipper tape with unique looms.

2. Metal Teeth

It is the first material used when the zipper was invented in the early 20th century and the most commonly found zipper teeth material . When choosing a zipper made from metal, one should consider the material used in construction and finish, as rust will cause the zipper to malfunction.

Metal elements can again be divided into several types based on the material.

Aluminum teeth. Elements are built from aluminum material.

Brass teeth. Elements are built from a mixture of copper and zinc.

Antique Brass. Elements are built from chemically treated brass, giving it rustic colorings and worn-out appearance.

Black teeth. Elements are built from chemically treated brass, giving it black matte colorings.

3. Special Teeth

There are special kinds of teeth that cannot be grouped into standard metal or plastic teeth because of their unique features and functions. Commonly found special elements/teeth are as follows:

Two-way teeth. These teeth can be opened from both sides, usually coming in the larger size of CFC, molded plastic, or metal. Commonly found on outerwear and luggage.

Invisible teeth. Technically a CFC teeth, the teeth are constructed in a way that it is almost invisible from the outside, showing only the tapes which are merged with the garment itself. Commonly found in skirts and dresses.

Coil teeth. Made from monofilament which is coiled continuously. Usually made from extruded nylon strip, these teeth are also commonly called nylon teeth. These material allows greater flexibility and are also available in large selection of sizes. Commonly found on tents and canvas bags.

Open end teeth. The teeth can be separated completely when the slider is fully opened. Commonly found in jackets, sweaters, and other outerwear. A box and pin attachment replace the bottom stop, allowing the separation.