PLASTIC STRAPPING SOLUTIONS: POLYPROPYLENE AND POLYESTER STRAPPING
Plastic strapping refers to various products made from polymers or plastic. Manufacturers process the raw material to form bands that are often used in bundling and packaging applications. While polyester and polypropylene straps may look similar, there are distinct differences between the two banding products, and it is important to understand these differences when choosing a plastic strap for your packaging application.
DOT Systems uses current technologies to manufacture high-quality plastic strapping in different breaking strengths, colors, and sizes to fit a range of applications. We also manufacture metal strapping solutions.
TYPES OF PLASTIC STRAPPING PRODUCTS
Plastic strapping is lightweight and effectively bundles products together or secures loads during transport and storage. Plastic strapping is divided into two major categories: polyester (PET) strapping and polypropylene (poly) strapping. There are a few methods to determine which type of strapping is best for your application, including visual appearance, surface texture, tension retention needs, and intended application.
POLYESTER STRAPPING
Polyester straps have a smooth, glossy appearance and have a tensile strength greater than steel, making them suited to heavy load applications. Polyester straps can retain their tension for longer periods than polypropylene straps because they do not stretch as much.
Polyester does not have corrosive properties, so there is no risk of damage to the items it secures. There are several methods suitable for applying polyester straps, including completely automated machines, manual application methods, and battery-operated application tools.
POLYESTER STRAPPING USES
Polyester strapping works best in rigid loads because it absorbs impact during transit. It is also best to use it when you require high initial tension to strap loads. Polyester strapping is especially beneficial for heavy loads to provide stability and for pallet applications. Common uses for polyester strapping include:
- Can and bottle pallets
- Metals
- Tiles
- Lumber
- Bricks
POLYPROPYLENE STRAPPING
Polypropylene strapping comes in different sizes, widths, and tensile strengths. The variety you choose depends on the intended application.
This variety of plastic strapping is often embossed to provide texture to better withstand friction and provide additional strength.
There are two ways to apply polypropylene strapping;
- Manually (with hand tools or buckles).
- Automatically (with strapping machines).
When applying polypropylene strapping, it stretches by approximately 25%, but it recovers about 10% shortly after. When the pallet or package settles, the strap retains some tension.
Polypropylene strapping is generally sensitive to elevated temperatures and UV light. However, some varieties are formulated to withstand them.
POLYPROPYLENE STRAPPING USES
Polypropylene strapping is versatile strapping solutions and can be used in a wider array of applications than polyester strapping, including but not limited to:
- Food industries, i.e., meat, seafood, fresh produce, and frozen produce
- Publishing including magazines and newspapers
- Agricultural products like hay
- Pharmaceutical and drug store distribution centers
- Flooring (laminates and hardwoods)
- Millwork (banisters and moldings)
- Clothing
- Appliances
- Direct mail
- General warehousing and packaging
As a reputable vendor of packaging supplies, DOT Systems can ensure high-quality polypropylene strapping solutions for a range of industries and applications.
SUPERIOR PLASTIC STRAPPING SOLUTIONS FROM DOT SYSTEMS
Plastic strapping provides added protection for your goods in storage and transit. At DOT Systems, we have the expertise and skill to provide superior packaging and shipping supplies with over four decades of industry experience. Our commitment to satisfying our customers means that we maintain a large supply of top-quality products and equipment to quickly meet customers’ needs. Check out our product catalog to learn more about our collection of plastic banding straps. Contact us if you have any questions. Our experts will be happy to help you find the most suitable strapping for your application.
