How to Choose and Use Plastic Strapping (PP/PET): Practical Steps

Overview

Choosing and using plastic strapping (PP/PET) correctly reduces damage, improves load stability, and lowers packaging costs. This beginner-friendly guide walks through decision points—selection of strap type and size, tools, sealing methods, and step-by-step application—so you can secure goods reliably for storage and transport.

Step 1: Determine your load requirements

Start by assessing what you need to secure. Key factors include load weight, shape, surface (slippery or rough), whether the load will be stacked, and how long it needs to stay secured. Consider environmental conditions: outdoor exposure, cold storage, or long shipping durations may influence material choice.

Step 2: Choose PP or PET

• PP (polypropylene): Best for light to medium loads, short-term shipments, and cost-sensitive operations. It stretches, absorbing shock during transit, which can be helpful for irregular or flexible loads.
• PET (polyethylene terephthalate): Choose PET for medium to heavy loads, export shipments, and long-term storage. PET holds tension well (low creep) and can replace steel in many applications while being safer to handle.

Step 3: Select strap width and thickness

Match strap strength to the load. Typical widths range from 9mm to 19mm and thicker cross-sections carry more load. Consult supplier technical data sheets—tensile strength (breaking load) and recommended joint types are often listed. When in doubt, size up for heavy or high-value goods.

Step 4: Choose the right sealing method and tools

• Manual methods: For low volume, use hand tensioners with metal seals for PP or PET. Plastic buckles are an option for quick, reusable bundling.
• Battery-powered tools: These combine tensioning, sealing (friction or heat weld), and cut functions—great for medium-volume operations and improved ergonomics.
• Automatic machines: High-volume lines use semi- or fully-automatic strapping machines that tension and weld straps rapidly and consistently—ideal for palletized operations.
• Seals: Metal seals, friction weld, and heat weld are common. PET often benefits from heat or friction welding for strong, clean joints; PP can use crimp seals effectively.

Step 5: Prepare the load and use edge protection

Make sure stacked items are even and stable. Use corner boards or edge protectors, particularly where straps contact sharp edges or soft materials. Edge protectors distribute pressure and prevent strap cutting into the product.

Step 6: Application basics (manual example)

1. Wrap the strap around the load so it sits snugly but not overly tight around corners.
2. If using a hand tensioner and seal, thread the strap through the tensioner and position the seal on overlapping straps.
3. Tension the strap until the load is secure—avoid over-tensioning, which can damage goods or the pallet.
4. Crimp the seal with the sealer tool or weld the joint as appropriate for your strap type and tool.
5. Cut the excess strap flush and tuck or dispose of it safely.

Step 7: Application with powered tools or machines

Follow manufacturer instructions for loading coils and setting tension levels. Test on sample loads to dial in tension and weld settings. Regularly inspect tools for wear and keep batteries charged and spares available to avoid downtime.

Step 8: Quality checks and troubleshooting

• Check strap tension—there should be minimal movement without signs of crushing or deformation.
• Inspect seals or welds for integrity—loose seals or bad welds are common failure points.
• Look for strap abrasion, cuts, or UV degradation—replace affected straps and improve protection or storage conditions.

Step 9: Safety and ergonomics

Train operators on correct tensioning and tool handling. Wear gloves and eye protection where necessary. Use battery or powered tools to reduce repetitive strain. Keep walkways clear of loose strap ends and dispose of scrap safely to prevent tripping or injuries.

Cost and sustainability considerations

While PP is cheaper per roll, PET may reduce overall costs by reducing load failures and replacing steel in some uses. Consider recycling programs for PET and PP—many recycling streams accept PET strapping and some accept PP. Reuse of straps is possible for some applications but must be judged against integrity and safety requirements.

Practical examples

• E-commerce cartons: 12mm PP with a manual tensioner for low-cost, quick closure.
• Export pallets of electronics: 19mm PET with heat-welded joints using a semi-automatic machine for consistent, strong retention.
• Timber bundles: Wide PET or heavy-duty PP with corner boards and metal seals to secure heavy, rough loads.

Conclusion



Choosing and using plastic strapping (PP/PET) effectively means matching strap type, size, and sealing method to the load and operation volume. Start with a load assessment, consult supplier specifications, perform trial runs, and train staff. Proper selection and application improve load security, reduce damage, and boost packing efficiency.