Galvanized steel banding is the most effective material to use for heavy duty holding and transporting that requires maximum strength and minimal stretch, but there’s a couple questions that bugs consumers…
What type of strapping is best to transport a heavy load?
Steel is known for its high resistance and for its tremendous tensile strength, which makes it able to withstand massive amounts of tension, specifically for loads tending to elongate or come apart. It is important to note, however, that steel has the tendency to react to changes in temperature, expanding and contracting. For instance, the Eiffel Tower is six inches shorter in the winter than it is in the summer due to the cold temperatures. Nonetheless, for holding and transporting cargo such as bricks, steel coils, and bundles of metal, steel is the wisest choice. Galvinization is the process of applying a protective coating of zinc to steel in order to prevent rusting. Zinc prevents corrosive elements from having contact with the steel; it also protects the steel underneath from scrapes and blemishes.
What are the benefits of working with steel?
Using steel can benefit the environment in that it is often recycled, and is relatively energy efficient to produce. Steel is one of the most recycled materials on Earth. In North America alone, nearly 69% of steel is recycled every year. The American Iron and Steel Institute estimates that 88% of the world’s steel is recycled. For every ton of steel that is recycled, we are conserving approximately 120 pounds of limestone, 1,400 pounds of coal, and 2,500 pounds of iron ore. In fact, two-thirds of all new steel comes from recycled stock and byproducts. Using steel is energy efficient, as well. Since 1972, the amount of energy required to produce one ton of steel has been reduced by 34%. Additionally, the steel being produced is now more dent resistant and is around 30% stronger than it was a decade ago. In comparison to other materials, steel is stronger and better for the environment.
Galvanized steel banding is produced in sizes from 3/8″ x .015 to 3/4″ x 0.30. It is recommended to use government grade strapping, and to purchase products made only from domestic steel.
