With the packaging industry ever evolving, new products and tools are regularly getting introduced to the market. Some gain popularity soon and others take a long time. One of the products that has become much talked about is the poly strapping solution that is required to band packages of different shapes and sizes that have to be shipped or packed to their destinations.

Polyester strapping is fast becoming the best substitute for steel strapping. With steel strapping losing its favor among the people in the packaging industry for reasons such as pricing, and rust stains it leaves on packaged goods, it is now poly strapping all the way. Customers are very happy with poly strapping’s flexibility and the lesser damage on packaged goods. They are also happy with the lower operating costs when using poly strapping.

Advantages

• Great break strength
• No marks on packaged goods
• Durable
• No sharp edges
• Great elongation and recovery
• Cost 1/3 less than steel strapping

Those looking at switching over to poly strapping from steel strapping should have a look at the 1.25”x .050” poly strapping that has 3,800 pound break strength and considered the best to be used in heavy duty applications in order to replace steel banding. Poly strapping has always been considered safer than steel banding because it has no sharp edges. It comes in varied sizes and widths. The above mentioned size of poly strapping is considered the strongest PET strap in the U.S.

Poly strapping works well with manual tools and with pneumatic tools for high capacity in line operations. It also works well with automatic strapping machines. Poly strapping is also AAR approved for use in rail roads.

There are certain disadvantages to poly strapping when compared to steel banding.

They are:

• Not as durable as steel when exposed to sharp surfaces
• Not all goods can be packed using poly strapping ex., bricks

Poly strapping is gaining popularity even though some steel strapping loyalists feel that there can be no replacement for steel strapping. Both steel and poly strapping have one common feature, that is, both can be recycled. However, the choice remains with the customer whether to choose steel or poly strapping, and it depends on the equipment being used, how convenient it is, and finally, if it clears the company’s budget. Whether to switch over however depends on the needs of the specific industry.

Allstrap stocks all kinds of steel and poly strapping and there is a wide range to choose from. Call Allstrap for questions and information regarding your strapping requirements.