How to Choose the Right Strapping for your Product

There are several types of strapping available and to get the best results you need to choose the correct type that offers the benefits needed for your packaging operation.

Here are just a few questions to ask yourself before starting to buy strapping.

-What is the application and how do you intend using it?

-What is the weight, and is it a static or dynamic load?

-Will the strapped shipments have to withstand any weather conditions?

-Will the strapping be done manually with tools or will it be done automatically with a machine?

-How far is it going and will long will it be strapped for?

Listed the different types of strapping below, so you can learn the properties and advantages of the different materials. This should help you make the right decision when buying strap.

Polypropylene Strapping (PP): is light and versatile, making it ideal for sealing, reinforcing and securing lighter loads. With elastic properties, it does not deform or corrode and resists bumps and scrapes making it ideal for use on pallets that will be stored for long periods of time or shipped long distances. It offers a resistance of up to 500 lbs. and its light plastic properties make it easy to work with. It can be sealed with self-locking plastic buckles and seals.

Polyester Strapping (PET): Is the strongest type of plastic strapping available, making it ideal for fixing heavier loads and pallets. Because it’s made from polyester it can be secured very tightly, with a small flex in the material that can be tightened when sealing. It has strong resistance to moisture and UV rays which make it ideal for long-term storage where high strength is required for long periods of time. It offers a resistance of up to 1200 lbs. and can be used to replace steel strapping in many situations.

Steel Strapping: Among the strongest strapping available, steel strapping is tough and perfect for heavy, rigid loads with sharp or rough edges like iron or concrete that won’t compress. The properties of steel strapping mean that it won’t flex like other materials can do – this is why it’s ideal for solid, bulky loads. This super-resistant strapping is ideal for very heavy loads and can be sealed securely with or without seals.

Cord Strapping: The most resistant of strapping materials, corded polyester strapping is ideal for fixing and sealing delicate or fragile products. Its light, textile material means it’s easy to work with, it won’t rust, rot or mark surfaces, and is best used manually with tensioners and sealers. It offers extreme resistance for loads of up to 1800 lbs. and is highly resistant to tearing making it ideal for heavy loads.

If you’d like more information about the strapping, manual tools, machines, systems or advice on which strapping is right for your operation, call us 813 242 6995 or sales@quickpakinc.com to get in touch with our team of packaging experts.