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A plastic zipper, also known as a Delrin zipper, is a zipper made with polyester tape and molded POM elements. Delrin is a high-grade plastic that is molded in a form over the individual side of the zipper tape. These zippers are light in weight and can be colored to match the product they are fabricated for. They are more commonly known as molded zippers and have a larger bulk than coil zippers. Individually coupling of the teeth in these zippers interlocks seamlessly. In fact, they are almost similar to metal zippers in design because of the individually positioned teeth along the tape. The teeth are smartly injection molded onto a pre-woven, dyed tape. The degree of self-lubrication and sturdiness of Delrin zippers is far better than an equivalent size of coil zipper.
Contents
As when compared to nylon zipper, plastic zipper (delrin zipper) features higher strength. Therefore, they are extensively used for heavy-duty sportswear, girl’s wear, children’s wear, vehicle covers and storage bags. These zippers tend to handle water and impurities more efficiently and thus they are also considered an ideal choice for outdoor applications. Therefore, almost all the tents, boats and other such outdoor sources also use Delrin zippers. Plastic zipper chain is specifically designed in such a way that it offers two-way functionality. The sliders can be integrated on either side and they function flawlessly. Delrin has a wide gauge range from 3 to 30 where the increasing numbers denote a heavy weighing zipper with several pounds per yard.
Description & history
Delrin zipper has a perfect combination of physical properties that is not seen in any of the metals and most other plastics. Delrin is a thermoplastic engineering polymer manufactured by the polymerization of formaldehyde. Reliable performance of this plastic zipper (Delrin zipper) has gained it a wide-spread recognition all across the world. The main highlight of the zipper, Delrin was commercially introduced in 1960. Since then, it is continuously being used in various appliance, automotive, hardware and consumer goods industries. It is actually considered as the material of construction because it offers innumerable opportunities to the designers. It delivers a relatively longer life, improvised performance and increased freedom of styling to the common zippers.
Chemical composition
The remarkable attributes of Delrin owe a lot to its chemical composition, a high degree of crystallinity and regular molecular structure.
All the high-end benefits of Delrin make it a picture-perfect choice for plastic zippers. Such zippers last long and perform exceptionally well anywhere they are incorporated.
Injection molding of delrin
Injection molding of Delrin provides freedom of styling to zipper manufacturers. It allows them to produce appealing geometric shapes which are otherwise not possible with metals and other kinds of plastic. Almost all the innovative techniques like snap/press fitting, self-threading screws, ultrasonic welding, riveting, and cold-heading can be effortlessly performed with this plastic. The zippers can also be colored, metallized, painted or printed after they are moulded. The overall success of the Delrin zipper depends on to a large extent on its quality, design and cost-effectiveness. The moulding process also adds some UV resistant polymers to these zippers which enable them to withstand UV degradation effectively.
Benefits
The high-end benefits of these zippers have made them highly applicable to a large number of items manufactured worldwide. From clothing items to storage bags, these zippers are extensively used because of their high versatility.