Strapping is used to transport or store products safely and effectively. Securing a bundle of items saves space and prevents accidents and losses during the shipping process.
There are a number of options when it comes to choosing a strapping material. Some materials are stronger than others and they come in a variety of sizes and thicknesses. Before selecting a strapping material, ask yourself the following questions:
How much does the product weigh?
–Will you be moving the product while it is strapped?
– What sort of environmental conditions will your bundle go through?
– What type of product are you bundling?
– Your answers will help you determine what kind of strapping you should use.
Types of Strapping
1.Polypropylene strapping: Polypropylene is the most commonly used and least expensive strapping material. It is also lightweight and very easy to use, generally utilized for light-duty palletizing, carton closing, bundling, and unitizing. It also comes in a variety of colors so it is great for color-coding shipments. However, polypropylene strapping has a low retained tension and is not quite as strong as steel strapping.
2. Galvanized steel strapping: Steel is galvanized when it is coated in a protective layer of zinc. The zinc protects the strapping from rust and corrosion. Steel is generally used for heavier shipments because of its strength and durability. Steel parts are now 30% stronger than they were a decade ago. Steel is also a highly recyclable and sustainable material. In fact, the amount of energy required to produce a ton of steel has been reduced by 34% since the year 1972.
3. Stainless steel strapping: Stainless steel strapping is highly resistant to the elements, which makes it the top choice for strapping in harsh conditions. Stainless steel banding comes in sizes varying from 3/8-inches by .015-inches to 3/4-inches by .30-inches. The size of the strapping will depend on the size and weight of the shipment.
Always determine which strapping material you are using before selecting your strapping tools. Some tools are only compatible with certain types of strapping and specific widths and thicknesses. There are many different kinds of tools, as well: manual tools, battery-operated tools, pneumatic tools, and machinery.
If you have any questions regarding strapping materials and processes, please leave them in the comments section below.
