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Strapping Materials for Securing Packaged Goods
When it comes to securing and stabilizing goods for shipping and storage, strapping is an essential material. Strapping creates a tight seal around products, keeping them contained and protected during transport and storage. Three of the most common types of strapping used today are steel, polypropylene, and polyester. Each offers distinct advantages and disadvantages depending on the application.
Steel Strapping
Steel strapping is known for its high tensile strength and reusability. It is commonly used for heavy packages and palletized loads requiring high strength. Steel strapping can be tightened to a high tension, creating a strong and stable unit load. It also has relatively low elongation, meaning it does not stretch much under tension. This helps the strapping maintain tightness. Steel is resistant to UV rays, extreme temperatures, oils, and many chemicals. It can be reused many times if undamaged. However, steel strapping is more expensive than other options and requires a metal sealer to secure. It is also susceptible to corrosion if exposed to moisture.
Polypropylene Strapping
Polypropylene strapping is made of a thermoplastic polymer resin. It is a lighter-duty option suitable for many general packaging applications. PP strapping has moderate tensile strength, elongation, balancing stretch, and rigidity. It is more affordable than steel strapping and can be sealed using cheaper plastic seals. PP strapping is resistant to moisture, acids, alkalis, and many solvents. However, it degrades faster than steel when exposed to UV radiation and high temperatures. PP strapping is designed for one-time use as the plastic material fatigues repeatedly. Overall, polypropylene strapping provides an economical solution for lighter-duty applications.
Polyester Strapping
Polyester strapping combines the strength of steel with the flexibility of plastics like polypropylene. Polyester has a very high tensile strength capable of securing heavy loads. But it also has enough elongation to maintain tension as loads shift. The material resists UV light, moisture, and chemicals. Polyester can also be reused to an extent if not damaged. It can be sealed using metal or plastic seals. Polyester strapping is more expensive than polypropylene but has a lower cost compared to steel. It balances performance and cost for securing medium to heavy loads during shipping and storage. The well-rounded capabilities make polyester strapping a popular choice.
Factors like cost, strength, elongation, reusability, environment resistance, and sealing method should be considered when selecting strapping. The right choice depends on the specific application and expected conditions during shipping and storage. With properties like high strength, flexibility, and durability, strapping keeps packaged products contained, stable, and secure in transit.
