How to choose the right strapping material for your needs?
We offer high quality solutions for optimizing the packaging process. When it comes to strapping, you have great choices. Our product range of strapping solutions includes more than 40 basic models of strapping tools (pneumatic, electric and manual) and semi- or fully automatic strapping systems. But first you need to know what type of strap you will use according to your needs and applications.
Different strapping materials have different properties in terms of tensile strength, elasticity, elongation recovery, retained tension and stress relaxation. The first consideration is making sure that your strapping is strong enough to withstand the forces to which it will be subjected to. The required break load will depend on the total weight and size of the load and the stresses it will be under while transported. Other considerations for strapping selection include temperature variations and the potential for exposure to moisture and corrosives. The most commonly used straps are polyester (PET), polypropylene (PP) and steel. Each of them has its pros and cons as well as recommendations for implementation.
Why select Polypropylene strapping?
Polypropylene or PP straps are commonly used straps in a wide range of industries. This can be explained by the fact that this strap is economical in price and can be used in many applications. Polypropylene was specially designed for light to medium heavy loads. It is easy to work with, very flexible, and resistant to water and corrosive liquids. It also has a high elongation rating which allows it to withstand shocks and move with a load without breaking. That stretchiness also leads to elongation and deformation over time, meaning that it will lose its ability to hold the load tightly. Extreme temperature changes and exposure to UV light (AKA sunlight) will degrade its performance as well.
Applications
Bundling and bailing, stabilising, preventing breakage in transit, unitizing lightweight materials and products.
Poly strapping can be sealed with metal seals, plastic or wire buckles, or by heat seal or friction weld.
Why select Polyester strapping?
Polyester straps belong to the modern kinds of materials uniting high strength of steel straps and safe structure and elasticity of plastic straps in their features. PET straps offer safe and effective packaging solutions. In many industries, PET is used as an alternative for steel. PET straps offer high tension, are able to retain this tension for a long period of time and have an excellent stretch recovery. Because of the stretch recovery, they are excellently resistant to shocks and impacts. PET strap is light, UV resistant, recyclable and easy to handle. It weighs less than steel strap, which helps in transporting goods. PET is safer to work with than steel. Firstly, the roll is lighter, making it less strenuous to replace a roll. Secondly, PET straps do not have any sharp edges, steel straps do. This is not only safer for the operators but is also a benefit during removal and disposal of the strap.
Applications
Bailing (Bales), Palletizing, reinforcing, bundling and packing in woodworking and construction industry, metal industry etc.
PET strapping can be secured through heat sealing, friction welding or with metal strapping seals.
Why select Steel Strapping?
Steel is the oldest and strongest strap available. Steel strap was designed for extreme tasks for which a heavy or very firm strap is needed, whereby a high strength and minimum stretch is required, or when the product can be sharp or hot. With its high tensile strength, it is strong enough to secure even the heaviest loads.
In addition to its overall strength, steel is highly resistant to changes in temperature and exposure to moisture and UV light, making it great for over-the-road transport and other outdoor applications. Rust resistant coatings further improve moisture resistance. Steel has a low stretch rating, so it will retain good tension on the load over time.
However, steel does have its downsides. It is very heavy and can be dangerous to work with; if it does break or is handled improperly during tensioning or removal, it can snap back with enough force to cause serious injuries. It is also more likely to cause damage to products or packaging.
Applications
Steel strapping is mainly used in the wood and metal sector, but can also be used for other heavy materials like logs, construction materials or industrial equipment
Do you need help with strapping selection?
We can help you find the right strapping material! Contact us to talk about strapping selection.
