The Ultimate Guide to Composite Strapping

When it comes to securing loads, ensuring safety and reliability is essential. Whether you’re transporting goods across the country, storing goods on-site, or preparing a shipment for international delivery. Using the right strapping materials can make all the difference. Composite strapping has emerged as a popular and versatile solution in load securing for many reasons. 

In this guide, we’ll explore what composite strapping is, its benefits, applications, and how it compares to other types of strapping. We’ll also discuss the essential strapping tools you’ll need for the job and provide insights into how composite cord strapping can be used effectively for pallet strapping.

What is Composite Strapping?

Composite strapping also known as cord strap or synthetic steel strapping, is a durable material made from high-strength poly woven fibres. This gives the strapping its flexibility and toughness, making it suitable for securing a wide range of loads. Unlike steel strapping, composite strapping does not rust and can have UV resistant fibres in it, making it ideal for outdoor use or in environments exposed to moisture.

Composite cord strapping is lightweight, easy to handle, and user-friendly, making it a great option for securing everything from small items to large pallets.

The Benefits of Composite Cord Strapping

1. Durability and Strength: Synthetic steel strapping is incredibly strong, making it suitable for heavy loads and long-distance transport. It can withstand high tension without snapping, ensuring your goods remain secure throughout the journey.
2. Weather Resistance: Unlike steel, composite cord strapping is resistant to rust and corrosion, making it ideal for outdoor applications and environments with high humidity or moisture levels. This makes it a top choice for industries like formwork, construction and agriculture, where loads are often stored outside. X-Pak Strapping has UV materials woven into it, to making it weather resistant and resistant to degrading.
3. Flexibility: It can absorb impacts and shocks without breaking. This flexibility makes it ideal for securing loads that may shift or move during transportation.
4. Lightweight and Easy to Handle: Compared to steel strapping, synthetic steel strapping is much lighter, reducing the strain on workers during load securing. Its lightweight nature also makes it easier to transport and store.
5. Cost-Effective: While steel strapping can be expensive, composite strapping is a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing strength or durability.

Applications of Composite Strapping

Composite strapping is versatile and can be used in a variety of industries. Here are some of the most common applications:

• Construction: In the construction industry, heavy equipment, tools, and materials often need to be stored and transported to different job sites. Composite cord strap is strong enough to secure these heavy loads and can withstand exposure to outdoor elements.
• Scaffolding: Scaffolders often use composite strapping to bundle and secure their steel products for storage and transport.. It;s strength and flexibility make it ideal for odd-shaped bundles.
• Logistics and Shipping: Pallet strapping is crucial in logistics, and synthetic steel strapping is often used to secure boxes and pallets for transportation. Its ability to stretch and absorb movement makes it a reliable choice for long-distance shipping.

Strapping Tools You’ll Need

When working with composite strapping, having the right strapping tools is essential to ensure a secure and efficient job. Here are the tools you’ll typically need:

• Strapping Tensioner: A tensioner is used to apply tension to the strapping, ensuring a tight and secure hold around your load. Composite strapping tensioners usually tension and cut, meaning there is no need for a separate cutting tool.
• Buckles: Once the tension is applied, buckles are used to lock the strapping in place. These buckles are usually made of galvanised steel and are available in different sizes..
• Dispenser Cart: Manufactured from steel components, dispenser carts features a carry compartment and a dedicated holder for a strapping lance, ensuring smooth operation. An auto brake system prevents straps tangling while the cart provides storage for tools and buckles. 

Using these tools will ensure that your strapping is applied efficiently, providing maximum security for your load.

Steel Strapping vs Composite Strapping

When securing and bundling materials, two widely used options are steel strapping and composite cord strapping, each offering distinct advantages.

• Steel strapping is renowned for its strength and durability. It resists stretching and endures extreme temperatures, providing excellent protection against damage. However, it is heavier and necessitates specialised tools for installation and tensioning/cutting. It can also pose significant safety risks, particularly the danger of flinging when cut or if a load shifts suddenly.
• Conversely, synthetic steel strapping, composed of materials like polypropylene and polyester, arelighter and more flexible. It is easier to handle and can absorb impacts without breaking, making it suitable for lighter loads. Additionally, composite strapping does not rust, making it an excellent choice for moisture-prone environments.
• Ultimately, the decision between steel and synthetic steel strapping hinges on the specific needs of your project, including pallet strapping, load weight, environmental conditions, and ease of handling. Understanding these distinctions ensures optimal performance and safety in your packaging operations.

Best Practices for Load Securing

No matter which type of strapping you choose, following best practices for load securing is essential to ensure safety and prevent damage during transit. Here are some tips:

1. Use the Right Strapping for Your Load: Choose the strapping material that best suits the weight, size, and shape of your load.
2. Apply Proper Tension: Make sure the strapping is tight enough to secure the load but not so tight that it damages the goods.
3. Inspect Your Strapping Tools: Regularly check your strapping tools to ensure they are in good working condition. Faulty tools can lead to improperly secured loads.
4. Secure Loads Evenly: Ensure the strapping is applied evenly across the load to distribute the tension and avoid uneven pressure points.

Conclusion

Composite strapping is an incredibly versatile and durable solution for securing loads across a range of industries. Whether you’re bundling agricultural products, securing pallets for shipping, or transporting heavy equipment, synthetic steel strapping offers the strength, flexibility, and weather resistance you need. By using the right strapping tools and following best practices, you can ensure your loads remain safe and secure throughout their journey.