NOTICE
Special attention and caution should be used in closing gas tight
zippers for pressure testing of level A garments. If proper technique and
care are not used, potential damage of the zipper will occur. When
closing the gas tight zipper, it should be in a position so that a corner or
sharp curve is not encountered. If excess force is used to pull the slider
around the corner or sharp curve, the zipper could be damaged.
The following procedure will help to eliminate this issue:
•
Lay the garment visor up on a flat surface.
•
Fold the visor in half lengthwise and roll away from zipper onto the flat surface
•
This allows the zipper to be in a straight position from top to bottom.
•
Hold the bottom of zipper with one hand and pull the slider up to a point just
below the visor.
•
Reposition the garment slightly to ensure the remaining open zipper is straight.
•
Close the slider the rest of the way to the top stop.
•
Always ensure the zipper is as straight as possible when closing.
•
Close the zipper in two to three short increments and do not try to pull the
entire length at once.
•
Do not hold storm flap when closing or opening zipper.
•
Always pull the slider in a straight line along the zipper length and do not pull
at an angle, which will result in potential damage.
•
Place thumb on slider while gripping pull strap and use thumb to push slider
against top stop of zipper.
•
Use the same precautions and method for opening zipper as well.
•
If resistance is encountered during opening or closing, do not try to force, but
reverse direction and inspect zipper elements (locks) for damage.
For additional information on zipper care and maintenance, go to
www.kappler.com/resources tab.
4. Close the zipper securely. Look for zipper separations that may have occurred.
5. Inflate the garment to a pressure of 5.0 inches of water column (or proceed to
other approved test kit instructions).
6. Wait a minimum of three (3) minutes to allow wrinkles to fill out and air temperature to
equalize.
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