​Steel vs. Plastic Strapping Tools

You have heard debates about steel vs. plastic strapping for your packaging needs. There are arguments both for and against either material. Some people will point out that steel can be used for even the heaviest of loads, while others argue that it tends to corrode if it is left outside. Plastics are strong and flexible, but they might not be the right choice for every load.

One thing you have thought less about are the key differences between steel and plastic strapping tools. While everyone’s busy debating which material is best to use, less attention has been paid to the tools you need to use for either type.

You know that you cannot simply switch out one material for another. Both plastic and steel strapping require their own tools, and the differences between them highlight why.

Steel strapping tools and plastic strapping tools also known as banding tools come in various strap widths and thickness, designed to handle the specific demands of their respective industry applications. However, many plants still use manual hand tools.

What is the difference?

Steel hand tools:

1. Steel can be sealed using clips or notches.

2. Clips are applied using manual tensioners and sealers.

3. Notches can be applied using a manual all-in-one tool or air-driven pneumatic tools.

Plastic hand tools:

1. Plastic can be sealed using clips, buckles, or welds.

2. Clips are applied using manual tensioners and sealers.

3. Buckles can be used with no tools but are only used for light-duty polypropylene.

4. Welds must use either a pneumatic or battery-powered tool. Battery tools offer mobility, while air tools are used at fixed locations.

When it comes to handheld strapping equipment, the options for steel strapping are limited. There are two types of hand tools designed for steel strapping: manual and pneumatic.

Manual tools for steel strapping include tensioners, sealers, and shears—three separate pieces of equipment for one task. However, all-in-one tools, which notch the strap without requiring seals, are popular as they combine all steps into one. Despite their convenience, these tools are often heavy, difficult to use, and more dangerous, requiring proper training to avoid injury.

Pneumatic tools tend to be easier to use. They are air operated, but they are not very mobile, and you must provide good-quality, clean, moisture-free air for these tools to work without issue. Although they are safer than manual tools, using steel strapping can still be difficult. You must be sure to use quality strapping to help your team avoid injuries.

Tools for plastic strapping are safer. You can still use manual tools for plastic strapping. These tools are often small and more affordable. They are also quite similar to what you may have been using for steel strapping, so your workers are already familiar with them to an extent. However, manual tools for plastic strapping must use clips as the plastic cannot be notched as it can be with steel.

Battery tools for plastic are the key difference maker between steel and plastic strapping. Battery tools offer the mobility you simply cannot achieve with steel using power-driven tools. They also reduce the number of tools you need. They are easier to use, with your team merely moving the tool into place over the strap, adjusting the tension, and sealing the strap.

Plastic strapping is safer than steel strapping, and using pneumatic tools makes the process much easier and safer.

As mentioned, plastic strapping is often safer than steel strapping. In many cases, it is the right choice for what you are packaging. Plastic strapping is often just as strong and even more flexible. Steel should only be used in certain cases, such as when you are packing extremely heavy loads.

The material itself and the plastic strapping tools you will use with it are often more cost-effective solutions as well. If you’re wondering what’s right for your plant, get in touch with the experts at 813 242 6995 or reach out to sales@quickpakinc.com