Zipper 101 Presentation

Everything you ever wanted to know about how a zipper works, the types of zippers available, and how to choose a zipper - from zipper manufacturer YKK

1. ZIPPER

2. A Brief History of the Zipper 1851 — Elias Howe received a patent for an "Automatic, Continuous Clothing Closure". He did not try seriously to market it. Howe's device was more like an elaborate draw-string than a true slide fastener. 1893 — Whitcomb L. Judson receives a patent for a "Clasp Locker." The device served as a hook-and-eye shoe fastener. The clasp locker had its public debut at the 1893 Chicago World's Fair but met with little commercial success. Judson launched the Universal Fastener Company to manufacture the new device . 1934 — YKK is founded as San-es Shokai by Tadao Yoshida in Tokyo; production and marketing of fastening products begins. 1955 — YKK Kurobe Plant commences operations in Kurobe City, Toyama Prefecture. 1959 — YKK’s first overseas plants established in India and New Zealand. 1961 — YKK begins production and marketing of aluminum-building products. 1950 — Tadao Yoshida imports four zipper chain making machines. 1960 — YKK (U.S.A.) Inc. established in Long Island City, New York 1917 — Gideon Sundback , a Swedish-American electrical engineer, was hired to work for Universal in 1906. Sundback devoted himself to improving the fastener, and by December 1913 he had designed the modern zipper. The patent for the "Separable Fastener" was issued in 1917.

3. 01 What is YKK? ZIPPER 101

4. What Does YKK Mean? Y oshida (Last name of YKK founder) K ogyo (Industry in Japanese language) K abushikikaisha   (Corporation in Japanese)

5. Founded in 1934 in Tokyo, Japan by Tadao Yoshida Present in 72 countries/regions across 108 companies 44,527 employees (as of March 2023) We provide fastening solutions and       fastening products Diverse portfolio of customers  in the apparel,      automotive, medical, government and safety      industries YKK also manufactures other fasteners, textiles,       snaps & buttons, plastic hardware, and       industrial machinery USA Factories - Macon, GA, Anaheim, CA, Lawrenceburg, KY (Snaps & Buttons), Oxford, AL ( TapeCraft ® webbing) About YKK Group

6. 02 What is a Zipper? ZIPPER 101

7. The process of opening and closing a zipper is in essence a gearing mechanism. The zipper's teeth are the cogs of the gear. The slider aligns the teeth in a fashion to close the zipper, allowing each tooth to mesh with the next tooth. When opening a zipper, the interior of the slider has a diamond shape, which is what is forced between the teeth, causing the “gear” to open. Zipper Mechanism

8. Closed-End Zipper Open-End (Separating) Zipper Structure of a Zipper Closed-end zippers include a bottom stop that prevents the two halves from coming apart. On the other hand, an open-end zipper is designed to completely separate when fully unzipped. Slider TOP STOP SLIDER ELEMENTS BOTTOM STOP TAPE BOX PIN INSERT PIN RETAINING BOX CROWN BODY PULLER

9. Function of a Zipper Determine the function in closing a zipper Closed-End (C) Open-End [Separator] (O) Open-End Zipper with Two Sliders  (M) Closed-End Zipper with Double Sliders (C) Closed-End Zipper with Double Sliders (CX) Arranged in head-to-head relation Arranged in bottom-to-bottom relation

10. Opening Direction of a Zipper (Pin Insert) The hand that the pin is held in when wearing the garment determines whether the insert is left or right.  In clothing designed for the US market, the pin is on the left and the slider is on the right. The opposite is true for all other countries. USA – Standard Left Insert (OL) Outside of USA - Standard Right Insert (OR)

11. Measuring 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 the  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 tip of the bottom stop to the tip of the 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 Same as the top tape extension end portion Open-end zipper From the top end of the slider to the tip of the box How to Measure a Zipper From the upper bottom stop to  the tip of the notches of the cut end From the top stop to the tip of the notches of the cut end From the top stop to the tip  of the notches of the cut end From the top stop to the cut end A B C A B C A B C A B

12. Measuring a Zipper How to Measure a Zipper Classification  Dimensions (A) Dimensions of top tape extension (B) Dimensions of bottom tape extension (C) Two-way separator from the top From the top end of the slider to the bottom end of the supplementary tape Top open zipper From the top stop to the tip of the box Reversible slider Rather than from the top end, measurement should be made from the shoulder inlet portion of the slider When the top stop does not enter the slider Measurement should be made from the top stop From the top stop to the cut end From the top stop to the cut end From the top stop to the cut end From the top stop to the tip of notches of the cut end A B A B A B A B C

13. Zippers are measured by the width of the elements when the zipper is closed. Measurement is taken in millimeters. Most zippers start at size 3 (3 mm element width) and go up to size 10 (10 mm element width).  What Size is My Zipper?

14. 03 Zippers ZIPPER 101

15. Types of Zipper Chain ​ ​ ​ ​ Metal Zipper ​ ​ Coil Zipper ​ ​ VISLO N ® Z ipper ​ (Injection molded) ​

16. 1. Regular Metal Zipper Element Colors  SIZE 3 M, 4M, 5R, 7M, 8M, 10M Aluminum Matl : Aluminum [A*] Metal Zipper Chain Golden Brass Matl : Brass [G*] Antique Brass Matl : Brass [GKB*] Antique Silver Matl : Brass [GTH*] Black Oxidized Matl : Brass [GK*] Silver Matl : Nickel [MN*] 2. Jeans Y-Type Zipper SIZE 3Y (45Y), 4Y, 5Y Golden Brass Matl : Brass [G*] Antique Gold Matl : Brass [GKB*] Antique Silver Matl : Brass [GTH*] Black Matl : Brass [GK*] Dull Silver Matl : Brass [GRDS*] *Only for #3 (#45) Nickel Silver Matl : Nickel [N*] Metal zippers are the oldest type of zipper and are suitable for applications with thick fabric such as leather jackets and bags.

17. All made of Brass YKK’s highest quality metal zipper. Elements are polished and plated and then put on the tape.  This beautiful, shiny zipper gives clothes and baggage a luxurious appearance. Metal Zipper Chain - EXCELLA ® 3. EXCELLA ® SIZE 2SG, 3SGY, 3SGW, 5SGY, 5SGW, 8SG, 8SGW Element Colors  Single type [Y*]: Only 1 slider can be used on the chain. Double type [W*]: 2 sliders can be used like in the two-way open zipper. Black Nickel [V3*] Antique Copper [X*] Golden Brass [OG*] Luxury Gold [Q*] Nickel [P*] Matte White Bronze [C9*] Antique Brass [I*] Silver [C5*] Antique Silver [H3*] Shiny Black [X7*]

18. EXCELLA ® Light zipper elements are made from aluminum. The zipper is lightweight while maintaining strength . Metal Zipper Chain – EXCELLA ®  Light 4. EXCELLA ® L ight Element Colors  Aluminum Red [EL-RED2*] Antique Silver [EL-SIL2*] Orange [EL-ORE3*] Black Nickel [EL-BLK3*] Purple [EL-VIO3*] Antique Brass [EL-GOL4*] Green [EL-GRN3*] Antique Copper [EL-COP3*] Blue [EL-BLU6*] Golden Brass [EL-GOL8*] MIX [EL-COM2*] SIZE 3 SAW, 5SAW, 8SAW

19. 5. EVERBRIGHT ® SIZE 3MGP, 4MGP, 5RGP, 7MGP, 8MGP, 10MGP Metal Zipper Chain - EVERBRIGHT ® Gloss-polished zippers that are smooth to the touch, glossy, and highly corrosion-resistant. Perfect for garments and luggage. Nickel Silver [N*] Anti-Nickel Silver Golden Brass [G*] Element Colors 

20. Coil Zipper Chain 1. Coil Zipper Front-Side Use 2. Coil Zipper Reverse Use 3. CONCEAL ® (Invisible Zipper) 4. Racquet Coil Zipper for Luggage   SIZE 2CF, 3CF, 45CF, 5CIF, 8CF, 10CF SIZE 3CF, 5CIF /5CNF SIZE 2CH, 3CH, 5CH SIZE 5RC, 8RC, 10RC , REVERSE ALSO AVAILABLE A coil zipper is made of spiral plastic elements, including polyester and nylon. It is versatile and can be used in anything from apparel to luggage to sporting goods and even automobiles.

21.  Elements are hidden and only the slider tab is visible to the user. The section of element Standard Coil Zippers vs CONCEAL ®  Zippers Standard Coil CONCEAL ® The section of element The elements are fully visible.

22. The  Racquet Coil zipper features a unique oval shape that ensures durability.  YKK takes this advanced design to the next level by strategically placing the sewing thread (which attaches the zipper to the tape) in an indentation on the oval, thus protecting it from exposure and from being easily torn. Countries where the patent is valid: (as of Sept. 2012)   Japan, USA, Germany, France, UK, Italy, Spain, Korea, China, Hong Kong, Indonesia Standard Coil Zippers vs Racquet Coil Zippers Standard Coil Zipper Racquet Coil Zipper Available size：　＃5, 8, 10 Conventional coil

23. Standard Coil Zipper Standard Coil Zippers vs Color Combination Making Chain Dyeing Chain Regular coil chain is dyed in chain with tape and elements sewn together. Elements Colored elements Transparent, Natural color, Black, White Tape Dyeing Tape Making Chain Sewing the colored tape and colored elements together to make the chain. Color Combination of Coil Zipper Pattern 1 Element Chain Dyeing Separating tape and elements from color dyed chain to get the element Tape Dyeing Tape Making Chain Sewing the colored tape and colored elements together to make the chain. Pattern 2

24. VISLON ®     Zipper Chain Plastic elements are injected onto the tape. Sizes 3VS 4VS 5VS 8VS 10VF 15VF Metallic Colors [VSMB*] Antique Gold #G765 [VSMG*] Gold #701 [VSMJ*] Matt Black #G770 [VSMP*] Golden Brass #G702 [VSMR*] Antique Silver #G744 [VSMV*] Silver #703

25. VISLON ®  Variations SIZE 3VZ, 5VZ 1.  VISLON ®   Flat Square-shaped VISLON ®  zippers. SIZE 5VY, 8VY 2.  Metaluxe ®     Elements that look like a metal zipper but are made of plastic. SIZE 3VSNT, 4VSNT, 5VSNT, 8VSNT 3.  VISLON ® with Clear Elements Transparent elements SIZE 3VSK, 5VSK 4.  Lumifine ® Glow in the dark elements. SIZE 45VSF, 75VSF, 95VSF 5.  Fin Guard ® Elements in the shape of a fin.

26. 04 Sliders ZIPPER 101

27. Slider Categories

28. Types of Sliders [DFNT*] Non-lock Non-lock. You can attach your own puller by closing the crown. [ZF*] Non-lock Non-lock. You can clip on your own puller. [DU*] Reversible 　 Automatic Auto lock. For reversible use. [ZA*] Automatic lock Auto lock. For reversible use. [DFW*] Non-lock No locking mechanism. For pockets, bags, etc. [GS6*] Semi-Automatic lock Semi-auto for jeans.  Made of brass. [CF*] Non-lock No locking mechanism. For pockets, bags, etc. [DA8*] Automatic lock Won’t open unless  you pull the puller. [DS*] Semi-Automatic lock Unlocks when the zipper pull is raised 90 degrees. [CA8*] Automatic lock Won’t open unless you pull the zipper pull.

29. [E*] Enamel Painted [EF*] Matte Enamel [EM V*] (#703) Metallic Enamel [EM R*] (#744) Metallic Enamel [EM J*] (#770) Metallic Enamel [EM B*] (#765) Metallic Enamel [EM G*] (#701) Metallic Enamel Slider Finishes Standard finishes that can be made in more than 2 of our global factories. [IM*] Super Light Antique Brass [V7*] Matte Black Silver [H3*] Antique Silver [FQ*] Matte Rose Gold [X6*] Black Oxides [H1*] Dark Antique Silver [KQ*] Rose Gold [RL*] Bright Copper [HC5*] Dark Silver [GS*] Matte Yellow Gold [X*] Antique Copper [C6*] Matte Silver [O*] Gold [I*] Antique Brass [C5*] Silver [OJ*] Jeans Gold [IF*] Light Antique Brass [ Ｖ 3*] Black Silver

30. Special features KENSIN :  Means that the zipper passes needle detection. NC-A. N-ANTI :  Means that the zipper meets the requirement for 94/27/EC for nickel.  P-TOP :   Plastic top stop. Chain type C* = coil M*/R* = metal V* = VISLON ® chain Zipper gauge Slider finish Zipper Nomenclature A standard description is usually provided to customers:  Size 3 standard coil, painted automatic lock slider, closed-end zipper Zipper function C = closed-end OL = open-end left insert OR = open-end right insert ML= two-way left insert MR = two-way right insert Slider code CFC-36 DA E P12 KENSIN N-ANTI P-TOP Please provide the above information to YKK. No need to memorize all YKK codes. When necessary, please ask a YKK representative to generate the code for you. Tape

31. For More Help: YKK Trim Creator YKK's Trim Creator allows you to customize zippers to your needs and generates a valid code you can give to your YKK Sales Rep. Just remember to also specify the tape color, length, and quantity along with the code! Visit ykkdigitalshowroom.com to explore the tool.

32. 05 How to Choose a Zipper ZIPPER 101

33. Normally, an open-end or two-way open-end zipper with an auto or semi-auto lock slider is used, so that the zipper won’t open up on its own. Normally, a closed-end zipper with a non-lock slider is used so that you can open it easily. How to Choose a Zipper 1. Please decide which zipper function and slider you need. 2.  Please decide the size. Center Front Pockets/sleeves A closed-end zipper for fly. The slider should be an auto or semi-auto lock . The recommended zipper differs by the thickness of the fabric and the type of pants. The YZiP ® zipper is recommended for jeans that have been washed harshly. Bottoms The available size differs by item, so please consult a YKK representative. Remember that size refers to the width of the chain in millimeters. 3. Please decide the detail. Color, element finish, special features…etc., and the length of the zipper.

34. From zippers to buttons, YKK provides a variety of jeans wear trims.  Our popular YZiP ® zippers are designed specifically for denim apparel.  Since jeans will go through tough washing, YZiP ® zippers are designed to be strong enough to resist corrosion when compared to standard metal zippers. YZiP ® zippers are available in different sizes and various finishes with standard and customized logo pulls.  Bottoms Jeans Pants, shorts Regular Coil Size 3CF, 5CN Available in reverse FLATKNIT ® Size 25FK 3YG 4YG 5YG YZiP ® Size

35. Casual / Ready-to-Wear CONCEAL ® EXCELLA ® “Clean” look Neon element METALLION ® Metallic plated element Transparent element with colored thread Color combination Color combination Herringbone Melange Stripe Tape variation Neon color Print

36. The AquaGuard ® zipper is laminated with polyurethane film to surface of the tape, and the zipper is treated to provide water repellent. Three types of tape are available: Shiny, matte (colored film), and matte (transparent film). There are two types of zipper chain for this product ： coil and VISLON ® zippers . Sports / Outdoor [T8*] Shiny Transparent film AquaGuard ® NATULON ® Size 3 & 5.  Recycled polyester tape zipper PFC-free water repellent finish This item has been upgraded to improve sliding, operability, and environmental friendliness. [T9*] Matte Colored film [T10*] Matte Transparent film [T8*] Shiny Transparent film VISLON ®   AquaGuard ® Size 3, 5, 8.  VISLON ® zipper version. [T9*] Matte Colored film [T10*] Matte Transparent film

37. Backpacks For backpack applications, YKK has products that accommodate various functions. We offer lightweight, water repellent and abrasion resistant items. The durability of these products makes them excellent for outdoor use. YKK has a wide range of color variations for each product to ensure that you can enjoy your favorite original combination. Stronger against abrasion compared to regular coil. Racquet Coil Zipper [5RC*] [8RC*] [10RC*]

38. Size 5, 10 Marine AQUASEAL ® PROSEAL ® Waterproof VISLON ®  zippers for applications  such as wader, wet suit, etc. Size 4, 8, 12 Water-tight air-tight for applications such as immersion suits and dry suits. Double Seal Single Seal (closed end) Single Seal (open end) [4TZ*] [8TZ*] [12TZ*] SIZE 5,10 SIZE 4,8,12

39. Visit ykkamericas.com for a list of our certifications. Our Certifications

40. Quality YKK maintains a quality lab within each plant dedicated to the technology and product line within that plant. Crosswise Strength Top Stop Pull-off Bottom Stop Pull-off Open Parts Strength Slider Lock Strength 90° Slider Pull-off Strength

41. 06 Sustainable Zippers ZIPPER 101

42. YKK offers sustainable zippers across several different categories:  Recycled Natural Fiber Water-saving Bio-based bluesign ®  Approved  Circularity " bluesign " is a trademark of Bluesign Technologies AG. YKK ®  Sustainable Zipper Options

43. NATULON ®  recycled zippers are made of recycled materials, such as PET bottles, ocean-bound plastic, chemically recycled polyester, and more. Example Products: NATULON ®  Mechanically Recycled zipper NATULON Plus ®  zipper NATULON ®  Ocean Sourced™ zipper (on the right) NATULON ®  Chemically Recycled zipper NATULON ®  Material Recycled Zipper METALUXE ® NATULON ® Zipper Recycled

44. Mechanical Recycling

45. YKK ®  zippers with natural fiber woven tapes help to eliminate CO 2  emissions associated with the production of synthetic textiles.  These plant-based materials are renewable and can be grown regeneratively, helping to reduce resource depletion. Example Products: TENCEL™ Yarn Tape Zipper Organic Cotton Tape Zipper  (on the right) Natural Fiber

46. Processes like ECO-DYE ®  waterless dyeing help reduce the amount of water used in the zipper dyeing process to almost zero. Example Products: Zipper with ECO-DYE ®  Technology Solution Dye Black Zipper No Dyestuff Zipper  (on the right) Water-Saving

47. GreenRise ®  product lines help reduce CO 2  emissions by using plant-made plastics. The production of these bio-based materials emits less GHGs than materials made from petroleum.  Indistinguishable from products made of virgin plastics, the GreenRise ®  product lines offer YKK quality and performance with a lower carbon footprint. Example Products: GreenRise ®  zipper  (on the right) Bio-Based

48. These products can be reused or remade, keeping valuable resources in use. The use of YKK ®  circular products not only save valuable resources, but also reduce CO 2  emissions and energy use as they continually get remade or reused. Example Products: Slider with TouchLink ®  Technology  (to the right, enables digitally connected garments) VISLON ®  Zipper with Nylon - Mono-plastic Material Circularity

49. 07 Industry Solutions ZIPPER 101

50. YKK Americas Group manufactures heat- and fire- resistant zippers for use in structural firefighter turnout gear, wildland fire, technical rescue, and station wear.  These fasteners are certified by UL to meet the requirements of NFPA 1971, NFPA 1977, NFPA 1975, & NFPA 1951 for firefighting personal protection equipment. YKK offers varying degrees of water- and air-resistance zippers that provide solutions in situations where access is needed and/or an effective barrier between water, gases, chemicals, liquids, and/or other substances is important.  Firefighter Gear

51. Our zippers can be found on backpacks, gear bags, holster brands, body armor, and more. Our durable, all-terrain fasteners keep up with the demands of law enforcement and military missions, keeping gear dry, packs closed, and body armor in place. Many of these products meet NAFTA/CAFTA requirements or are Berry compliant. Please inquire about specific YKK ®  products if NAFTA, CAFTA, or Berry Compliance is required. Water-resistant and military color fasteners are available. Tactical

52. YKK Americas Group manufactures airtight and watertight zippers for dive suits, waterproof shoes, survival suits and space suits.  Our PROSEAL ®  zippers are UL certified for use in SOLAS suit applications. Our zippers used in personal flotation devices (“PFDs”) are UL certified to meet the US Coast Guard regulations. Immersion

53. YKK Americas Group manufactures airtight and watertight zippers used in OSHA Level A and NFPA 1991 & 1994 suits for full liquid chemical and chemical vapor protection.    Our water-resistant zippers are used in OSHA Level B and NFPA 1992 suits for splash protection. Ask a sales rep about YKK ®  PROSEAL ® zipper, AQUASEAL ® zipper, or AquaGuard ®  zipper! Chemical

54. A novel use of zippers is in the manufacturing and repair of nets for deep ocean trawling, shrimping and commercial fish farming.  YKK offers a special plastic VISLON ® zipper, which is suitable for use in an ocean fishing boat and makes it easier to open the net to remove the catch. Industrial

55. Especially strong CONCEAL ®  and conventional zippers allow for an operator to bring two pieces of the trim cover together and close a car seat. Automotive

56. We recommend the following zippers for sleeping bags: Two-way separating coil zipper Size 8 Lighter Weight Option: Coil zipper Size 45 with a DWNT slider (with option to use cord webbing as a puller) Coil zipper Size 5 with an Anti-Snagging Slider Cover Sleeping Bags

57. YKK’s VISLON ®  UV zippers are a unique line of VISLON ®  zippers designed specifically to resist corrosion and add protection from the sun’s damaging UV rays.  They are available in a #8 and #10 size.  TA single pull and TX double pull automatic locking plastic sliders that are resistant to salt water are available. To properly maintain zippers for marine boats, YKK offers the ZIPPY COOL ®   kit. This cleansing system comes with a cleaning  fluid to remove harmful dirt, sand, and salt deposits and a wax lubricating stick. Marine Boats

58. Our VISLON ®  injection molded zippers can accommodate any jacket need. YKK ® zippers can be found on casual, formal, and outdoor jackets. YKK also manufactures AiryString ® tapeless zippers for jackets that can be sewn directly onto the fabric, and digitally connected Touchlink ® sliders. Jackets

59. YKK offers a variety of high-end luxury fastening products, namely our EXCELLA ® zippers and EVERBRIGHT ® zippers. Each one of the EXCELLA ®  zipper’s elements (teeth) have been polished to provide an opulent shine that will add a touch of sophistication and elegance to your end products. The EVERBRIGHT ® zipper is highly polished and smooth, and perfect for luxury handbags. Offered in gold and silver finish. Handbags

60. YKK offers high-end footwear brands a variety of zippers that provide a stylish appeal and quality assurance. A plastic or metal size 4.5 or size 5 zipper with an automatic or pin lock slider is recommended for footwear. Use of a plastic or metal zipper will be influenced by the shoe style. Both automatic and locking sliders can be applied to footwear zippers. Shoes

61. YKK developed ratcheting sliders that slip jeans down under pressure rather than breaking the zipper . YKK ® zippers can be used on both casual and high-end jeans . Jeans

62. YKK offers a variety of zippers designed to accentuate lines, colors, textures, and illusions of dresses, like CONCEAL ®  coil zippers and metal zippers in a variety of styles and colors. Special sliders can be made available. Dress

63. We provide comfortable, functional and fashionable zippers with a wide range of color selections for children’s and infant clothing.   Although children’s clothing is exempt from the ASTM small parts test, YKK conducts internal testing employing the ASTM standards for this product to avoid choking hazard risks. Also, these products’ lead content falls well within the minimum safe levels prescribed by the CPSIA.  With YKK ® zippers, larger top stops prevent sliders from coming off the zipper; and they do not contain Azo-dye, formaldehyde, or lead.   We think about fun, too. Our polychromatic, multi-colored teeth zippers are eye-catching and color-coordinated . The structure of YKK’s separating zipper, which increases the   durability of open parts, makes this separating zipper’s   alignment easier. It can be operated with only one hand and   assists not only with infants and young children , but arthritic   and disabled individuals as   well. Infant/Children

64. YKK Americas Group’s plastic coil zippers add both comfort and functionality to our customers’ sofas, mattresses and pillows. They are available in a wide range of colors. Furniture

65. Connect with Us www.facebook.com/ykkfasteners YKK Americas Group @ykkfasteners www.ykkamericas.com www.linkedin.com/company/ykk @ykk_usa