In a zipper enquiry, “metal”, “coil” and “moulded” describe how the chain elements are made. Those words do not specify the chain width, finished length, end configuration or compatible slider. Keeping these details separate helps a production or procurement team compare exact models without relying on a broad label.
What a zipper type describes
A zipper chain has two rows of elements attached to tape; the slider brings them together or separates them. The type usually refers to the construction of those elements. YKK’s basic classification covers three main families: coil, metal and plastic elements injection-moulded onto the tape. This is a useful way to identify the construction, but it is not a universal recommendation for every product.
Three common element constructions
Coil zipper
The interlocking element is a continuous polymer coil fixed to the tape. From the front, it can look like a row of small loops along the edge. DELIM’s ALPHA S3 coil zipper, for example, has a listed chain width of 4.2 mm. Check the value and execution on the exact model page instead of applying it to every coil zipper.
ALPHA S3 4.2 mm coil zipper · coil zipper category
Metal zipper
A metal chain has separate metal teeth attached to the tape. Appearance alone does not identify the alloy, finish or production properties; check those details for the exact item. DELIM lists the ALPHA VT0 as a metal zipper with a 4.2 mm chain and VT10 with a 6 mm chain.
ALPHA VT0 4.2 mm metal zipper · ALPHA VT10 6 mm metal zipper
Moulded plastic, or “tractor” zipper
In this construction, separate plastic elements are moulded onto the tape. DELIM calls its ALPHA versions “tractor” zippers; VISLON® is the name YKK uses for its own range of injection-moulded plastic-element zippers. A manufacturer’s product name should not be treated as a generic name for every plastic zipper. DELIM lists the ALPHA K10 chain at 6 mm wide.
ALPHA K10 6 mm moulded zipper · moulded plastic zipper category
Element type is only one line in a specification
Compare the ALPHA VT10 and K10: both product pages list a 6 mm chain width, but their element constructions differ. The same width does not confirm that the elements or sliders are interchangeable. Specify these points separately:
- element material and construction, plus the exact series or item number;
- size designation and chain measurement for the selected model;
- finished length, tape colour and required version;
- separating or closed-end construction, opening direction and number of sliders;
- the slider, puller and installation requirements for the actual product.
“Concealed”, “reverse” and “separating” describe a different version or use; they do not replace the element construction. A size number is not a universal promise of an exact millimetre width either. Confirm the measurement against the selected series and its product specification.
How to record the zipper you need
- Find the marking on the roll, package or existing zipper. If it is missing, attach clear photos of both sides.
- State the element construction, size or measured dimensions, and required finished length.
- Say whether the zipper must separate completely, how many sliders are needed and where they should stop.
- Check slider compatibility for that exact series and approve a sample in an assembly using the actual fabric, seam and finishing process.
For slider compatibility, see DELIM’s guide on choosing a YKK slider for continuous zipper chain. If you are preparing an enquiry from scratch, use the zipper enquiry checklist. Confirm availability, execution and commercial terms for the exact model separately.
Frequently asked questions
Can I choose a slider by the zipper number alone?
No. Match the construction, series and chain size. If in doubt, share the marking or a sample and check the pair before ordering a production quantity.
Does “VISLON” mean any plastic zipper?
It is the name of a YKK product range. Other manufacturers may use their own names and designations, so check construction and compatibility by the exact item number.
Is a concealed zipper a fourth element type?
“Concealed” mainly describes the appearance and installation of the fastening. For an order, also verify the element construction, size and compatible slider.
The construction overview follows YKK’s manufacturer explanation of coil, metal and VISLON® zipper types. DELIM terminology and dimensions are checked against the relevant product and category pages; confirm availability and compatibility for the specific order.