Overview
EN ISO 10751:2016 / ISO 10751:2016 specifies a laboratory test method to determine the resistance of slide fasteners (zippers) to repeated opening and closing. It is applicable to all slide fasteners with a teeth length greater than 80 mm and is published by CEN as an identical adoption of the ISO document. The method quantifies durability under controlled tension and reciprocating slider motion, providing repeatable results for quality control and product development in the footwear sector.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Scope: Test method for slide fasteners (zippers) used in footwear; applies to teeth length > 80 mm.
- Specimen conditioning: Condition test specimens for 24 h according to ISO 18454 (standard atmospheres for footwear testing).
- Minimum sample size: A minimum of three specimens is recommended.
- Test machine & clamps:
- Fixed clamp for closed end and free clamp for open end; additional lateral clamps for width tension.
- Clamping geometry and stops specified so movement and positioning are controlled.
- Forces and tensions:
- Longitudinal force (F1): 22 N (±1 N).
- Lateral force (F2): 18 N (±1 N).
- Slider motion:
- Harmonic reciprocating stroke: (63.5 ± 1.5) mm.
- Speed: (60 ± 6) cycles per minute.
- A counter records cycles until failure or until a specified cycle count is reached.
- Specimen preparation:
- Marking lines and optional sewing of tabs/strips if fastener too short or narrow for clamps.
- Stitching details and tab attachment positions are specified to ensure consistent clamping.
- Failure reporting:
- Record type of damage (e.g., slider detachment, puller breakage, tooth wear/breakage, tape tearing, stitch abrasion) and number of cycles at occurrence.
- Test report contents:
- Reference to ISO 10751, description of fasteners, testing date, cycle counts and damage for each specimen, and any deviations from the method.
Applications and users
- Footwear manufacturers verifying zipper durability on boots, shoes and ankle-fastening designs.
- Component suppliers (zippers, sliders, tapes) performing product validation and R&D.
- Independent testing laboratories performing conformity and durability tests for buyers and regulatory bodies.
- Design and quality engineers using results to select fastener types or improve component robustness.
- Standards and compliance teams documenting test evidence for product specifications and claims.
Related standards
- ISO 18454 - Footwear: standard atmospheres for conditioning and testing.
- ISO 19952 - Footwear vocabulary (terms and definitions used in ISO 10751).
Keywords: EN ISO 10751:2016, ISO 10751, slide fastener testing, zipper durability, footwear testing, resistance to repeated opening and closing, zipper test method.