How to Use Composite Straps?

Straps are used when transporting large bundles of heavy items over long distances. Steel, Polypropylene, Nylon, and other materials are available for strapping packaging. Each strapping material has unique characteristics that make it better suited for that specific need, depending on the transportation needs. For instance, steel is one of the most rigid strapping materials available on the market for a strong packaging strap. Steel strap has advantages, but it also has disadvantages. For example, if left untreated, it has the potential to corrode and discolour cargo. Furthermore, it can potentially inflict injury when it recoils from being cut due to a release of tension.  

Composite Strap, on the other hand, is a strong non-metal and safer option than steel strap. Composite Strap is made up of Polypropylene (PP) fibers wrapped with polymer coating. They are also optimised to secure the cargo while in transit.  

Composite Strap provides consistent tensile strength due to its buckle. The buckle allows the Composite Strap to achieve higher tensile strength, lower elongation, and resistance to most chemical solvents, caustics, and acids. For optimal results, pair the Composite Straps with Nitrated Wire Buckles.  

Composite Straps are also available in a variety of colours such as blue, green, pearly white, dark grey, and yellow. They are also available in different widths and strengths. 

Composite Straps – Key Features & Benefits  

The key features and benefits of Composite Straps include: 

• Safe, no risk of injury 

Polyester Composite Straps are light and soft; hence no gloves are required. Moreover, the straps do not endanger both workers and customers as they do not recoil when unstrapped or cut. 

• Eliminates the risk of damage to the cargo 

Polyester Composite Straps are also easy to handle due to their smooth texture. Moreover, as the strap does not have sharp corners, the cargo is not damaged during storage. 

• Weather-Resistant 

Composite Straps are weather-resistant and are suitable for long-term storage. 

• Strong & High Tensile Strength 

Composite Straps have high tensile strength and are very durable. 

• Corrosion-resistant 

• Ability to withstand heavy loads 

• Easy to dispose of and recycle 

• It has a built-in edge protector 

• It can be re-tensioned multiple times 

• Shock absorber 

When to Use Composite Straps? 

Composite Strap is used to transport goods that expand or shrink in size during transit. They are also suitable for use when the goods are prone to abrasion and lose value when chipped or scratched. Composite Strap is a safe choice for those inexperienced with strap application or removal because it does not recoil when cut, making it a safer packaging strap option. 

How to Use Composite Straps? 

To begin, wrap the composite strap around the crate or box. Next, insert the end of the strap through the steel buckle and around the open leg to form a loop. Ensure that the top strap is on the shorter end, and pull the top strap around the leg tightly. To apply tension, pull both ends of the strap in the opposite direction. 

Although Composite Strap can be tightened by hand, a tensioning tool can be used to make it tighter. Tensioning tools for Composite Strap are available in manual, battery, and pneumatic versions. For example, the first step for manual tensioners is to ensure that the steel buckle is held on the right-hand side. It is easy to remember because the steel buckle looks like the letter “C.” 

Next, place the tensioner about 30 cm below the buckle on the bottom strap, and then use the tensioner tool to squeeze the handle to raise the gripper foot. The bottom strap will go underneath the gripper foot, while the top strap will go through the housing cutter and then through the windlass. 

After that, use the tensioner’s handle to cut the strap. If the steel buckle is made up of high-quality steel, the legs of the buckle should close when the strap is tightened. 

Is a Buckle Necessary? 

The overall tensile strength of a Composite Strap is determined by the quality of the strap used in conjunction with the buckle. A steel wire buckle closes when you apply tension to the strap, thus further strengthening and securing the Composite Strap.  

A heavy-duty galvanised steel wire buckle is recommended for Composite Straps. However, some applications may require phosphate buckles, as they have more friction within the buckle.  

Can Composite Straps be Elongated? 

There are two types of elongation: permanent elongation and elastic elongation. The steel strap has a permanent elongation, which will elongate and potentially break upon impact. Moreover, once elongated, the steel strap does not return to its original shape.  

On the other hand, Composite Strap has elastic elongation, which means that the Composite Strap absorbs energy during impact before elongating and returns to its original shape. Additionally, it takes more power to break a composite strap than it takes to break a steel strap. 

Uses of Composite Straps 

These are some uses of Composite Straps: 

• Bundling items for handling and shipping 
• Objects fastened to pallets, skids, and crates 
• Providing support for wooden boxes, crates, and corrugated boxes 
• Items attached to flatcars and semi-trailers 
• Securing bricks, packed glass, and metal pieces in a unit load 
• Corrugated box and shipping container closure 
• Securing steel or paper coils  

Conclusion 

Overall, Composite Strap is the most durable strapping option after steel straps. They are suitable for transporting goods that may change in size during transit. Moreover, Composite Strap is ideal for use with items prone to abrasion and lose value when chipped or scratched.