What is Keder?
Keder is a rope edge product that allows a fabric panel to connect to a frame, usually by sliding it into an aluminum keder rail. It is made of two components: a pvc extrusion core, and fabric. Keder is easier to install than other rope edges because the fibers of the fabric are exposed on the outside, which makes the cord easier to slide into the frame. The rope edge is then attached to the fabric panel.
What is Keder used for?
Keder rope can be used in a variety of different applications. We carry a variety of Keder products so that you can find the best one for your project. View our Kedermaker and Eurokeder catalogs to find the type you need!
Rental Tents and Tent Structures
Keder allows for a strong connection between industrial fabric panels and frames in tensile and tent structures. For this application we supply standard as well as Double Coated Keder, which slides more easily into the frame but also provides improved UV resistance. We also supply Keder Rails, fabric panel manufacturing services, and Renew Keder, a type of rope edge used for repairing fabric panels in existing structures.
Banners and Advertising
Keder and Keder rails are used widely for advertising banners and signs. Durability and easy installation make our Keder ideal for this type of application.
Awnings, Canopies, and Sun Shades
Keder and Keder Rails are used frequently to secure awning fabric for smaller-scale outdoor spaces.
Marine
Keder is often used for boat covers and sails.
Custom Applications
Keder is an excellent solution any time you need fabric connected to a frame. If you don’t see your particular application listed here, contact our experts today and they will be happy to assist you.
How do I know which type of Keder I need for my project?
There are many different factors to consider when it comes to choosing the right Keder: application, strength, durability, as well as available attachment methods. We carry two brands, EuroKeder and Kedermaker, as well as different styles to meet whatever your needs are.
Style, weave, and thread weight are all factors to consider when selecting the Keder that is right for your project.
Style
Keder can be largely separated into three main styles based on their attachment method: sewing, single-flag weldable, and double-flag weldable.
Sewing Keder
Sewing flag is the simplest of the three to attach. The flag is is welded shut, which makes it easy to sew to a fabric panel. This is often a great choice for signs and banners, however it can also for larger applications such as awnings and canopies.
It is important to note that most sewing thread is not designed for UV-resistance and thus this is not a suitable method when durability, especially against sunlight exposure, is an important property. Special PTFE thread can offer long-term durability.
Single Flag Keder
Single flag is designed to be attached by any welding method, including hot air welding, wedge welding, and radiofrequency welding (RF welding for short). RF welding creates a stronger bond and improves water tightness and UV resistance. Single flag is not appropriate for larger panels with high tensile loads because it is only welded on one side, that weld becomes a single point of failure. This is why single flag often uses wider 20mm welds, and why it’s highly recommended to use RF welded single flag Keder. All of the Keder distributed by our company is RF welded.
Double Flag Keder
Double-flag is the strongest and most durable, but can only be welded properly using a radio-frequency (RF) welder, which can be cost-prohibitive for smaller companies. The weld is no longer a point of failure because both sides of the flag are welded to the panel, making the strength of the fabric itself the only limitation.
Weave Styles
The weave style refers to the way the Keder Fabric is woven. There are two common weaves: plain weave and the panama style weave.
Plain Weave
Plain weave is the most basic form of weaving. Each weft yarn crosses the fill yarns up and under. The next weft yarn goes over the fill yarn that the previous weft yarn went under and so on.
Panama Weave
Panama weave is a variation, whereby 2 yarns next to each other go up and under, as well in the weft as the fill direction. The Panama weave allows a greater strength of the fabric with the same yarn size because more yarn can be woven per inch.
Thread Weight
There are different strengths when it comes to the thread, or yarn, that makes up the fabric. Fabric strength is measured using either the denier or the Dtex scale. Keder with thicker yarn tends to be stronger, more durable, and to slide better, however, it also usually costs more. Lightweight Manufacturing offers three different thread weights: 2000 Denier, 1500 Denier, and 1000 Denier.
Our team of experts is always happy to review which style is the best for your project. They will help you find the Keder that balances price, quality, durability, and look that will best fit your project.
What are Keder Rails? How do I know what size I need to order for my project?
Keder extrusions (also known as keder rails) are aluminum extrusions designed to allow rope edges to slide into them, securing fabric panels in a way that is safe and efficient. They allow for fabric panels to be added to almost any frame with minimal alterations. The rails can offer solutions for awning and shade, tenting and structures, curtains, as well as banners and billboards.
When placing your order just let our team of experts know that you would like keder rails with your order and they can include the cost in your quote. Review our rail catalog for some of the extrusions we have in stock.