OEM Recycled Nylon Zipper Tape Factory
Recycled nylon zipper tape is produced from post‑consumer nylon waste (mainly PA6 and PA6,6) that is re‑polymerized and extruded into a continuous filament suitable for zipper coils. The material retains the mechanical properties required for repeated opening‑closing cycles while reducing reliance on virgin petroleum feedstock.
Material Composition and Performance
The recycled polyamide exhibits a tenacity of approximately 6.5 cN/tex and a tensile strength around 85 MPa, comparable to virgin grades. Its melt flow index (MFI) at 260 °C/5 kg falls between 20 and 30 g/10 min, allowing stable extrusion. Moisture regain after 24 h at 65 % RH is typically 3.5 %, which is lower than many natural fibers and contributes to dimensional stability in humid environments.
Manufacturing Process
After sorting and cleaning, the nylon waste is depolymerized to caprolactam or adipic acid/hexamethylene diamine, repolymerized, and melt‑extruded through a spinneret. The filaments are drawn to achieve orientation, then texturized (if required) and wound onto spools. Process temperatures are maintained between 260 °C and 280 °C, with tension controls that keep diameter variation under ±0.02 mm.
Technical Specifications
| Property | Typical Value | Test Standard |
|---|---|---|
| Width | 3 mm – 20 mm | ISO 1856‑2 |
| Thickness | 0.15 mm – 0.35 mm | ISO 1856‑2 |
| Tensile Strength | 80 MPa – 95 MPa | ISO 2062 |
| Elongation at Break | 15 % – 25 % | ISO 2062 |
| Melting Point | 215 °C – 225 °C | ISO 11357‑3 |
| Moisture Absorption (24 h, 65 % RH) | 3.0 % – 4.0 % | ISO 62 |
| Color Fastness to Light | ≥ 4 (ISO 105‑B02) | ISO 105‑B02 |
Customization Options
- Width adjustable from 3 mm to 20 mm in 0.5 mm increments
- Thickness range 0.15 mm – 0.35 mm (customizable via die gap)
- Coil length up to 5 000 m per spool (standard 1 000 m, 2 000 m options)
- Color matching using Pantone or RAL references; masterbatch concentration adjustable
- Additive packages: UV stabilizer (up to 2 %), antimicrobial agent, flame retardant (if required)
- Surface finish: matte, semi‑gloss, or high‑gloss achieved through post‑extrusion calendering
Applications
In automotive interiors, the tape serves as the coil for seat‑belt zippers and interior trim fasteners, where low moisture regain prevents swelling and maintains clutch force over temperature cycles. Outdoor gear manufacturers select it for backpacks and tents because the UV‑stabilized version retains >80 % tensile strength after 500 h of xenon‑arc exposure. Sportswear brands use the matte finish for concealed zippers that require minimal visual impact while enduring repeated laundering at 60 °C.
Quality Assurance
Each production lot undergoes inline laser width monitoring with feedback to the extruder, ensuring width stays within ±0.05 mm of target. Tensile specimens are cut from every coil and tested to verify strength and elongation; results are logged against SPC limits. Color is measured with a spectrophotometer and compared to the approved masterbatch batch using ΔE < 1.5 criteria. The facility operates under ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 14001:2015, with traceability of raw material batch to final spool.
Packaging and Logistics
Finished coils are wound on reusable polypropylene spools, wrapped in UV‑resistant polyethylene film, and placed in single‑wall corrugated cartons sized to optimize pallet utilization (typically 48 × 40 in). Cartons are strapped and labeled with bar‑code identifiers; a standard 20‑ft container holds up to 22 pallets, reducing per‑unit freight cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the width and thickness be customized?
Yes. Width can be set between 3 mm and 20 mm, and thickness between 0.15 mm and 0.35 mm, according to the die configuration and draw ratio.
What information is needed for a quotation?
Required details include desired width, thickness, coil length, color reference (Pantone/RAL), any additive requirements, and annual volume estimate.
Which materials are available?
The primary offering is recycled PA6 and PA6,6. Virgin nylon grades can be supplied upon request for comparative testing.
How is quality inspected?
Quality control includes laser width monitoring, tensile testing per lot, colorimetric analysis, and visual inspection for surface defects. All data are retained for traceability.
What packaging options are available?
Standard packaging uses reusable spools with UV‑protective film and corrugated cartons. Custom packaging such as reusable wooden pallets or anti‑static bags can be arranged.
How are export shipments protected?
Cartons are strapped, corner‑protected, and loaded with air‑bags to prevent shifting. The UV‑film shields the tape from sunlight during transit.
What is the typical production lead time?
Lead time ranges from 2 to 4 weeks after receipt of approved artwork and material confirmation, depending on order size and current plant load.
How are samples arranged?
Free sample lengths of up to 30 m can be shipped via express courier upon receipt of a sample request form; shipping charges are collected or prepaid as agreed.