Steel Strapping
Steel strapping is available in different types and sizes for use in different types of applications. It can also be applied using various types of tools that use different power sources. Similarly, there are almost half a dozen types of seals that can be applied to steel straps.
There are 2 main types of steel strapping:
1. Regular Duty
Regular duty steel straps are made to meet close tolerances and rigid quality requirements. They can be used for most general applications and are available in a multitude of widths, thicknesses and finishes.
2. High Tensile
These steel straps are made for achieving optimal results in all applications. It has uniform elongation and tensile characteristics. It is ideally suited for applications that require very high shock resistance and strength. This can include securing steel coils, unitizing bales, and securing open top car.
Regular duty steel strapping is available in width ranging from 3/8” to 3/4”. On the other hand, high-tensile steel straps are available in width from 1/2” to 2”. The thickness can range from 0.0155” to 0.044” or even higher in some cases.
Steel strapping applications can be completed using a wide range of tools. These include the following:
1. Pneumatic tensioners & sealers
Pneumatic tensioners are among the most powerful steel strapping tools. These tools can also ensure highly precise and uniform tensioning by adjusting air pressure. Similarly, pneumatic sealers use compressed air for completing sealing applications. These tools are designed for helping achieve higher productivity. They can deliver higher productivity even when the seals are to be applied in odd positions.
Hand tensioners pull steel strapping to the desired tension using minimal effort. Similarly, hand sealers also complete the sealing action while minimizing the effort required. These tools are typically lightweight and can deliver high-strength joints.
Battery powered steel strapping tools are becoming increasingly popular. Battery powered tensioners and sealers are designed for delivering maximum power and completing maximum cycles per charge to boost productivity. Battery tools eliminate the costs of air generation. They also don’t carry the inconsistencies offered by pneumatic tools. Most of the battery tools are designed for single-button operation.
4. Combination Tools
Combination tools for steel strapping work as a single tool that completes tensioning ,sealing and cutting. These tools allow you to complete strapping applications in a single action, thus saving time and speeding up the process.
There are different types of seals which can be used for steel straps. The most commonly used seals include:
- Snap-on Seals: These seals are placed over overlapping steel strap ends during or after pulling the tension and help in eliminating the need for pre-threading.
- Thread-on Seals: These seals are threaded before apply the tension. They are commonly used on large steel strapping sizes and bales.
- Push-on Seals: These types of seals are used when tension is pulled by butting the tensioner’s nose against the seal. The seal requires threading before tension is applied.
- Magazine Seals: These seals for steel strapping are applied by stacking together. These seals are commonly used with combination tools