Cord Stopper

Definition and Overview

A cord stopper is a component that clamps a cord threaded through a hole with a spring or retainer and fixes the drawn-out position. It lets you adjust the length of a drawcord and the size of an opening with one hand, and can be loosened again as needed.

In general, many designs use a button-shaped body that is pressed to release the lock, allowing the cord to move before the hand is released. Round cords are the most common, but there are also shapes that accommodate flat cords, tape, and multiple cords.

Materials and Structure

For the body, resin materials such as nylon, ABS resin, and polyacetal are often used because they are lightweight and resistant to rust. Metal versions make it easier to achieve a premium feel and strength, but consideration is needed for weight, corrosion, and discoloration caused by surface treatment.

The basic structure consists of the body, a movable part that holds the cord, and a spring that provides restoring force. In types with an internal spring, the combination of pressing force, friction on the cord surface, and hole shape affects holding power and feel during operation.

• Resin type: lightweight, easy to use on clothing, and easy to offer in multiple colors.
• Metal type: easier to create a decorative appearance, but product weight and wet environments should be checked.
• Built-in spring type: easy to operate, but since it contains a spring, needle detector compatibility must be confirmed.

How to Specify the Size

When selecting, check not only the outer dimensions of the body but also the internal dimensions of the cord hole and the compatible cord thickness. For round cords, match the hole diameter with the actual measured cord diameter; for flat cords and tape, match both the internal dimensions of the threading opening and the width and thickness of the tape to be passed through.

If the cord is too thin, it may slip and fail to hold; if it is too thick, it may be difficult to thread or may make operation heavy. Fuzzy cords, waxed cords, and elastic cords differ in friction and thickness, so it is important to confirm with prototypes using the actual combination.

Main Applications

In outerwear and sportswear, it is used to adjust drawcords at hood openings, hems, waists, and cuffs. The main purposes are to improve fit, help with wind resistance, and change the silhouette.

In bags, pouches, and drawstring bags, it is used to tighten the opening and help prevent contents from falling out. For products for children and for work applications, in addition to ease of use, safety should be considered, including snagging, detachment, and the treatment of cord ends.

How to Choose and Points of Caution

Choose based on the type of cord used, thickness, number of cords, and the required holding power. For areas under load or areas that are opened and closed frequently, check in the product specifications whether the cord will not pull out under tension and whether the lock still functions after repeated operation.

Metal parts may rust or discolor depending on the usage environment, such as sweat, moisture, washing, or seawater. Resin parts should also be evaluated under conditions that include washing and custom printing, taking into account effects on appearance and strength from chemicals, heat, ultraviolet light, and low temperatures.

For products that undergo needle detection, a cord stopper with a metal spring may trigger the detector. Confirm before production whether needle detector compatibility is required, the detector settings, and consistency with foreign-object control. A cord end is a part that finishes the end of a cord, and its role differs from a cord stopper, which fixes and adjusts the position of the cord.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a cord stopper be selected based only on cord thickness?

In addition to cord thickness, check whether it is a round cord or flat cord, how slippery the surface is, the number of cords used, and the required holding power. Even if it fits through the hole, if it is too thin it will slip, and if it is too thick it will reduce operability and durability, so judge it with prototypes using the actual cord.

What is the difference between a cord stopper and a cord end?

A cord stopper is a component that holds a cord at any point along its length to adjust length and tightening. A cord end is a component that covers the end of a cord, prevents fraying, or adds a decorative touch, and it usually does not have a position-adjusting function.

Can a cord stopper with a metal spring be detected?

Those using a metal spring may react to a needle detector. However, whether there is a reaction and how it is detected depends on the component composition, the detector sensitivity, and how the product is passed through it. Confirm in advance using the actual components and inspection conditions you will use.