For years, metal banding, notably from steel, has been a common choice for fastening and binding heavy loads in different industries. It helps to keep cargo safe and secure, whether during transportation or when in storage. Finding metal banding solutions does not end with choosing any steel strapping and machine available in the market. To put it simply, that. Several factors make it that way, including the type of load the band will hold and the working conditions. This guide will take you through the most fundamental factors to consider when choosing metal banding solutions, focusing on steel metal strapping and steel strapping machines.
Understanding Steel Metal Strapping
Steel metal strapping proudly holds the title of an unyielding guardian of the realm of industrial packaging. Its rugged strength and unrelenting resistance have been the sources of myriad tales among the attendants. Spanning several grades and widths, metal strapping covers the entire spectrum of the domain. Nevertheless, three front-runners of this tale of robustness and strength deserve a tale of their own; regular-duty, high-tensile, and heavy-duty grades stand at axes of the material’s combat of adversity.
The first hero of our tale is regular-duty strapping, an ally that is suitable for less harsh environments. Well-balanced in terms of flexibility and strength, regular-duty steel strapping is useful for light and medium-duty applications. It has proven its worth in bundling and displacing smaller loads and serves as a decisive factor in environments where it is not necessary to be extremely tough.
On the other side of the spectrum, there is high-tensile steel strapping, which is the symbol of defiance against one of the most challenging adversaries. High-tensile grade has been designed to operate in some of the most severe conditions under the most rigorous loads. In such environments, there is no place for softness and doubt; reliability under pressure is non-negotiable. The last hero of our tale, heavy-duty steel strapping, is the epitome of strength and defiance. Heavy duty is largely self-explanatory; it is tough, unyielding, and designed to withstand the most debilitating pressure that humanity can throw at it.
Understanding Steel Strapping Machines
Steel strapping machines often play a crucial role in industries requiring fast and secure packaging. These machines facilitate efficient and secure packaging processes in various industrial settings. These machines automate the strapping process, drastically reducing labor costs. Multiple steel strapping machines in the making have been designed to fit different operational demands and priorities.
In semi-automatic steel strapping machines, for example, the machine is best for entities seeking a middle ground and a balance between automation and manually controlled machines. They offer the middle characteristic where the operator manually feeds the strap around the product to be strapped, and the machine automatically tightens, seals, and cuts the strap. In this manner, such machines offer better control of the strapping tensile strength as well as the balance of the manual strap position capability based on unique level packs.
In automatic fully-steel strapping machines, the highest level of automatic steel strapping making is realized. The machine offers high strapping throughput with only the least operator interference in the process of strapping. In the act of strapping, besides only packing the product to be strapping. This machine automatically feeds the strap, tightens, seals, and cuts, and eventually enhances the overall strapping throughput.
In addition, automatic fully-steel strapping machines come with such features as the programmed opening after loading through sensors and programmed strap tension when strapping packs. Regardless of the making, the steel strapping machines also have some features that make them equally efficient in their dispensation. Special function features on the machine include the strapping tension-adjusting mechanism. Adjustability in strapping sealing, and strapping downtime in the event of a suspected fault. Others include the emergency “stop” button, “drapes” for protection, and a human-friendly design. That ensures minimal chances of a malfunction in the human-machine interface.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Steel Strapping
Load Type and Weight
The load type and weight, on the other hand. Help define the minimum strapping dimensions required for proper support and attachment.
As a rule, heavy loads require strapping that consists of a thicker band and a wider footprint. For example, heavy-duty steel strappings attach construction materials. Or various types of machinery to resist weight pressure and provide adequate support.
Likewise, the load shape and character may determine. Whether it will be safe to use certain types of strappings and seals. Sharp edges and irregular shapes may damage the strapping during attachment. Or release and ruin the material of the main product. To avoid the potential of abrasive grinding or cutting, choose a solution with smooth and rounded edges or serrated seals. Therefore, analyzing all these factors, a consumer makes a choice. That will ensure load safety and the best presentation for the supported object.
Environmental Conditions
Environmental factors drastically determine the performance and lifespans of steel strapping. Environmental analysis evaluates key factors such as variations in temperature levels, moisture, and exposure to corrosive agents. Stainless steel is best applicable in corrosion-prone environments such as marine and industrial settings. Rust and degradation are kept off through the resistance. These straps have, and they are better than traditional steel strapping.
Additionally, when used outdoors and in transits, UV-resistant coatings are utilized in the steel variants. Sunlight causes the degradation of the steel through its radiation.
Continuous exposure could weaken the inner material, compromising the strap’s strength over time. However, UV-resistant coatings preserve the strap’s performance for an extended period.
Application Method
There is no one-fits-all between manual and automated strapping dependent on the volume, operational speed, and the workforce’s ability, among other factors. The tools are ideal for small-scale strapping or use cases where flexibility or maneuverability is necessary. It provides the operator with more control in the process, especially for non-uniformly shaped or beveled packing items.
On the other hand, due to increased strapping speed and consistency, steel strapping machines are necessary for large-scale strapping. Fully automated machines provide an even faster option by eliminating human errors and the time taken to colocate the strapping. Packing houses, courier services, and e-commerce have been adopted. The use of these machines, as many items can be quickly and consistently strapped over a short period.
