Strapping is the process of applying a strap to an item to combine, stabilize, hold, reinforce, or fasten it. Strapping is most commonly used in the packaging industry. Strapping is often used in complete horizontal or vertical bands. Edge protectors are used to help spread the load at corners and reduce damage to the load by the tensioned strap. Strapping can also be used in loops attached to holding locations on rail cars. Strapping tape is a pressure-sensitive tape used for several packaging functions such as closing corrugated fiberboard boxes, reinforcing packages, bundling items and pallet unitizing. Examples of strapping tape include strapping steel tape and strapping PVC tape. Browse through this category for various strapping tape.
Plastic strapping materials are made from polyester, polypropylene and are available in a variety of strengths, styles, and finishes. Unlike steel strapping, elongation and recovery are a key factor for deciding which type of plastic strap to use.
Pallet strapping, or banding is the process of using a metal or plastic strap to unitize, palletize or bundle products together. Strapping is used in a variety of industries from shipping large industrial equipment and lumber to reinforcing cases in e-commerce fulfilment centres. For this reason, there are many grades and types of materials on the market today.
Elongation refers to a straps ability to stretch and bend. This can be important as a straps ability to stretch and recover can help improve its strength during the initial tensioning process.
With a variety of applications and uses, it is important to understand the different types of strapping materials. The materials used come in multiple strength levels as well as elongation and recovery rates.
Steel Strapping
Steel strapping is the oldest and most commonly used banding materials to this day. Steel strapping is designed for extreme tasks that require a heavy or very heavy-duty strap. Steel strapping is optimal for packaging industrial equipment, heavy construction materials, and shipping steel coils.
Plastic Strapping
Plastic strapping materials are made from polyester, polypropylene and are available in a variety of strengths, styles, and finishes. Unlike steel strapping, elongation and recovery are a key factor for deciding which type of plastic strap to use.
Polyester Strapping
Polyester strapping is the most commonly used polymer strapping material. Its strength and durability have made it the most commonly used material to replace steel strapping.
Polypropylene Strapping
Polypropylene strapping is an economical strapping material compared to other materials. It’s designed for light to medium duty unitizing, palletizing and bundling. Consistent pressure to polypropylene strapping can result in unrecoverable dead stretch and inability to return to its original length.
Plastic Strapping Fasteners
There are many types of fasteners and buckles that can be used to fasten plastic strapping. Like steel strapping, metal buckles can be used with a crimping tool for both manual and automatic equipment. Strapping buckles are made in metal, plastic and wire. Some sealers interlock the strapping material and do not require an external buckle. Heat seal can be created with a friction or heat welding process where the straps are partially melted to form together.