With the ever evolving engineering techniques in today’s strapping industry, users now have a host of products to choose from. Recently, a debate has been initiated over the benefits of using polyester strapping as opposed to steel strapping. Steel strapping has traditionally been popular when greater strength and low flexibility is needed for banding products like steel bars, lumber, bricks, etc. However, there has been a shift in preference towards polyester strapping due to its reduced risk of rusting and breakage. There is no clear distinction to be made between the two varieties of strapping, however, as the decision depends other factors like pricing, safety, applicability and usability of the strapping.

Steel Strapping

The primary benefits of steel has always been its strength. It is the only thing that keeps the load from braking or being damaged during rigorous transport. Very large and heavy products usually can only be packaged with steel strapping.

The first disadvantage of using steel strapping is the risk of injuries occurring when the stretched steel is cut and recoils. Specific training is necessary in order to handle steel strapping. Steel strapping also has the tendency to rust and its edges can even damage the items that have been packaged. Finally, steel strapping does not accommodate the shifting weight of the product during transport and can end up coming loose from around the products.

Polyester Strapping

Polyester strapping is an ideal substitute for steel strapping because it is just as strong and is additionally less heavy. The chances of injury while using poly strapping are also low as is the risk of damage to the products that have been packaged. Polyester is more flexible than steel and can allow for shifting weight that may occur during transport.

One advantage of polyester over steel is the energy efficient nature of the manufacturing process of polyester strapping.  Also using polyester strapping leads to lower operational costs.

On the other hand, polyester is not as durable as steel when it comes to exposure to sharper surfaces. Bricks for example, are best wrapped in steel strapping to avoid damage to the strapping itself.

Another consideration to keep in mind while choosing between steel and polyester strapping, is the equipment used for the two types of packaging. Both the products can be recycled, so the final consideration would be the actual product to be packaged, the equipment being used, the convenience, and the cost effectiveness.