Comprehensive Guide to Industrial Strapping

Industrial strapping is widely used in the load restraint and packaging industries globally. With a variety of strapping materials, tools, and techniques available, selecting the correct strapping solution for each application is essential. 

This guide examines key aspects of industrial strapping, focusing on different strapping materials - such as steel, composite, polypropylene, and polyester - along with best practices and innovations to improve efficiency and safety in load restraint systems.

An Overview of Industrial Strapping Technology

Industrial strapping, or banding, is a method for securing loads during transportation, storage, or handling. Strapping materials are typically tensioned around a product or group of products to hold them in place during movement or shipment. 

Depending on the specific application and material, different strapping technologies are used to provide optimal load restraint and protection.

1. Composite Strapping

Composite strapping is a durable, high-strength material employed in industrial packaging. It merges the flexibility of polyester fibres with a polypropylene coating, rendering it resistant to abrasion, weather, and corrosion. Ideal for securing heavy loads, composite strapping is a safer option than steel strapping, as it does not rust or pose injury risks. It is lightweight, easy to handle, and compatible with standard tensioning tools. Widely used in industries such as construction, shipping, and manufacturing, composite strapping provides high tensile strength and dependable load stability, making it well-suited for long-distance transport and storage.

2. Steel Strapping

Steel strapping is the oldest strapping method in the industry. Known for its high tensile strength, it is perfect for heavy-duty applications, such as securing large machinery, construction materials, and metal coils. 

Steel strapping resists elongation, ensuring heavy loads remain firmly in place without stretching or loosening. However, proper handling is essential due to its sharp edges and potential safety hazards during tensioning and sealing.

3. Polyester (PET) Strapping

Polyester strapping or PET strapping is a versatile, strong material that offers a balance between the flexibility of polypropylene and the strength of steel. Its durability and tensile strength make it ideal for medium- to heavy-duty applications, particularly where some elongation is beneficial. 

Polyester works well with automated strapping tools. It is recommended for high-volume users.

Key Strapping Materials: Composite, Steel and Polypropylene

Each strapping material offers distinct advantages depending on the application:

• Steel Strapping: Ideal for heavy-duty use, steel provides superior tensile strength, ensuring secure load restraint for bulky items. However, it is more expensive and poses safety risks due to sharp edges.
• Polypropylene (PP) Strapping: Best for light-duty tasks, this material is flexible, cost-effective, and commonly used in smaller packaging applications, though less durable.
• Composite Strapping: Offering a balance of strength, flexibility, and cost, composite strapping is suitable for a range of medium- to heavy-duty applications, including pallet strapping and load securing.

Applications of Strapping in Packaging and Palletising

Strapping plays a vital role in various packaging and palletising tasks, including:

• Palletising: Strapping secures products onto pallets, preventing shifting during transit. Polyester and steel are commonly used for heavier loads requiring greater tension.
• Product Packaging: Used to bundle products, strapping ensures security during transport or storage. Polypropylene is ideal for smaller goods, while steel and polyester are employed for larger, heavier items.
• Bundling Items: Strapping bundles items such as tubes, pipes, or lumber, ensuring they remain stable during handling.
• Load Securing: Load restraint systems rely on strapping to keep goods safely in place during transport, reducing the risk of damage and enhancing safety.

Choosing the Right Strapping Equipment: Automatic vs. Manual

When selecting strapping tools, businesses should consider the following:

• Production Volume: High-volume operations benefit from automatic or semi-automatic strapping machines, whereas manual tools suit lower-volume settings.

• Load Size and Weight: Larger, heavier loads require durable materials like steel or polyester and may need automated tools for secure load restraint.

• Budget: Manual tools are more affordable but demand greater time and labour. Automatic systems enhance efficiency but involve higher initial costs.

• Safety: Strapping equipment must prioritise safety, particularly when handling steel strapping. Tools should minimise injury risks and be user-friendly.

Best Practices for Safe and Efficient Strapping

To ensure effective and safe strapping, the following practices should be followed:

• Correct Tensioning: Over- or under-tightening can cause product damage or ineffective load restraint. Each load requires proper tensioning.

• Sealing and Trimming: Ensure appropriate sealing—whether manual, friction-weld, or heat-seal—for straps to remain securely in place.

• Safety Procedures: Workers should wear protective gear, especially when handling steel strapping, to avoid injuries.

Innovations in Strapping: Enhancing Packaging and Efficiency

Recent advancements in strapping technology have improved performance and safety. Key innovations include:

• Stronger, Lighter Materials: New materials offer increased strength while reducing costs and material usage.

• Automated Tools: Automation in high-volume operations improves efficiency by reducing labour costs and ensuring consistent tension and sealing.

• Tension Control: Advanced tools offer precise tension adjustment for different loads.

• Safety Features: Modern tools incorporate automatic cut-offs and protective covers to reduce the risk of injury.

Conclusion

Industrial strapping is a key component in packaging, palletising, and load restraint systems across various industries. Whether using steel, composite, polypropylene, or polyester, selecting the appropriate material and equipment is vital for efficiency and safety. 

By following best practices and embracing innovations, businesses can improve packaging quality, enhance worker safety, and boost productivity.