What type of strapping should I use?
Cord Strapping, Polyester Strapping, Steel Strapping
The choice of the right strapping will depend on the kind of application. Cord, polyester and steel strapping are the three most commonly used strapping. The benefits of using each one are described as following:
Cord strapping is designed to match or exceed the break strength of steel strapping. It is a better substitute for securing cargo during shipping. It also helps in creating a safer workplace. Memory and elongation are two important strengths to this type of strapping. These characteristics make it work like a large industrial rubber band, allowing them to bear shocks during shipping.
Cord strapping is both gentle and strong. It has lower chances of breaking compared to steel, which lacks in memory and elongation. There are many advantages of using cord strapping. It is lightweight, available in a wide range of sizes to match the applications, can be imprinted, doesn’t cause any damage to your products, and prevents operator injuries.
Polyester strapping combines the performance features of both plastic and steel strapping. It is a stronger and much more resilient substitute for steel strapping in mid duty and heavy duty industries requiring bundling, unitizing, baling, and palletizing applications. The recovery and elongation characteristics allow the straps to remain tight while absorbing shocks without breaking.
Another advantage of using polyester strapping is that it helps in reducing indentation at unprotected corners. It will not rust and stain packages like steel when exposed to outdoor environments or moisture. Poly strapping is also safer for the operator and will not cause damage to forklift tires.
Polyester strapping is also designed for use in mid duty to heavy duty applications. It can be used with both hand tools and power-based strapping tools. The material offers high break strength while maintaining high amount of strap tension. It is ideally suited for products that need to be prevented from shifting during transit or handling.
Steel strapping is designed for heavy packing goods in heavy-duty industries. High tensile steel straps can have some of the highest break strengths. These straps are also essential strapping materials where the goods have sharp edges. They are also highly effective strapping materials for products that need to be heated after strapping or are hot.
Steel strapping tools are available in a multitude of gauges, providing different levels of break strength. Thinner gauge steel straps can also be used for light to medium duty applications, where they offer better break strength than other alternatives.