Pay attention when using airtight zippers
December 31, 2019
Any zipper needs our careful use and maintenance to make them last longer.Airtight Zippers are specifically designed and manufactured to act as a protective barrier against most liquids and gases. As such, they are commonly used in camping gear , protection suits marine sportswear, inflatable objects， and other types of functional clothing.
Due to their special nature, airtight zippers are treated and stored differently from regular zippers.
For clothing with airtight zippers on the back (or other locations that can’t be easily accessed on one’s own) like in dive suits, the assistance of another person is required to properly zip the zipper.
PVC airtight zippers should only be used in environments that are not less than ten degrees Celsius and not more than 40 degrees Celsius. Any temperature lesser or more than these can severely weaken the bond of the zipper to the cloth and the structural integrity of the zipper itself. This is due to the fact that extreme temperatures can cause chemical changes in PVC.
In Use
Always move the pull head in an almost parallel direction along the rack rail. If you pull on it from an angle, there is a chance that the airtight and/or watertight properties of the zipper will be reduced.
Don’t zip up the zipper too fast. Don’t constantly zip it open and close too. Doing so can severely damage the zipper and compromise its airtight qualities.
If cloth, thread, or any other object becomes entangled in the zipper, don’t pull the obstruction violently. Gently zip the pull head back, work the problematic thread or cloth away, then zip it back up.
After Use
Gently clean the exterior rail of the zipper using water and a soft, small brush. You can use beeswax as a lubricant. However, you have to take precaution that the water and beeswax don’t get inside the interior rail of the zipper, as it might severely weaken its airtight/watertight properties.
Don’t expose the zipper to the elements when not needed. Store it inside a cool and shady area immediately after use.
