SERFs vs hook-and-loop fasteners

It’s important to note that SERFs are not hook-and-loop fasteners. Although both are reclosable systems, they function differently:

• SERFs (self-engaging reclosable fasteners): designed as a tape, clip or profile that locks to itself.
• Hook-and-loop fasteners: made from two separate components (i.e. one tape with extended hooks and one tape with woven or nonwoven durable loops) that work together.

When should you use SERFs versus hook-and-loop or contact closures?

The choice depends on the durability and strength of the closure you need:

Hook-and-loop fasteners:

• Ideal for temporary or repositionable applications
• Easy to use and engage/disengage multiple times
• Suitable for closures like buttons, snaps and zips

Contact closures:

• Ideal for permanent attachment applications
• Low engagement force with high resistance to disengagement
• Can be disengaged once or twice over the life of the application

SERFs:

• Offer higher closure durability and resistance to accidental opening
• Require a predefined effort to unlock, even under extreme temperatures and challenging conditions
• Serve as an alternative to staples, screws and bolts, particularly for blind fastening applications

Find the right fastener for your needs

Explore our Duotec^® product family on our website or contact a Binder representative to discover the best fastener solution for your application.