Structure of a Zipper

SLIDER

The slider joins or separates the elements when the zipper is opened or closed. Various types of sliders are available depending on use.

ELEMENTS

The teeth, also known as elements, are the parts on each side of a zipper that mesh, or engage, with each other when passed through the slider. When the left and the right side teeth are engaged they are called chain.

TAPE

The tape is manufactured exclusively for zippers. It is usually made of polyester, but depending on use, synthetic fiber tape, vinyl tape and cotton tape are also available.

Types of Function

Closed-end (C)	Open-end [Separator] (O)	Two-way separator (M)	Zipper with double sliders(C)	Zipper with double sliders(CX)
			arranged in head-to-head relation	arranged in bottom-to-bottom relation

How to Measure a Zipper

Classification	Dimensions (A)	Dimensions of top tape extension (B)	Dimensions of bottom tape extension(C)
Closed-end zipper	From the top end of the slider to the tip of the bottom stop	From the top stop to the tip of notches of the cut end	From the top stop to the to the tip of notches of the cut end
Zipper with double sliders (arranged in head to head relation)	From the tip of one bottom stop to the tip of the other bottom stop	From the upper bottom stop to the tip of notches of the cut end	From the tip of the bottom stop to the tip of notches of the cut end
Zipper with double sliders (arranged in bottom-to- bottom relation)	From the top end of one slider to the top end of the other slider	From the top stop to the tip of notches of the cut end	Same as the top tape extention end portion
Open-end zipper	From the top end of the slider to the tip of the box	From the top stop to the cut end
Two way separator From the top	From the top end of the slider to the bottom end of the supplementary tape	From the top stop to the cut end
Top open zipper	From the top stop to the tip of the box	From the top stop to the cut end
Reversible slider	Rather than from the top end, measurement should be made from the shoulder inlet portion of the slider	From the top stop to the cut end
When the top stop does not enter the slider	Measurement should be made from the top stop	From the top stop to the tip of notches of the cut end

Standard Slider Functions

Non-Lock slider (DF)	Automatic slider (DA)	Semi-automatic slider (DS)	Jeans slider (GS)
The pull-tab does not lock at any position on the body. No locking mechanism.	The lock automatically locks when no force is placed on the tab-pull.	When the pull-tab is lowered, it locks. When the pull-tab is raised, it unlocks.	Jeans Semi-automatic slider

Pin lock slider (DP)	Reversible slider (DUA)	Plastic slider (TA)	Plastic slider (TF)
Pins on the pull-tab work on the elements and lock.	The pull moves along a rotating rail. The zipper opens and closes from either the front or back.(Automatic)	Locks are made of metal. (Automatic)	(Non-Lock)

Key lock slider	Double pull
Can be locked with a key.	Opens and closes from either front or back. (Non-Lock, Automatic)