• Available 3/8"-1-1/4" widths
• Available 0.015-0.060" widths
• Polyester strap should be used with serrated seals

Strap Type Recommended Uses:
Polypropylene Strapping: Light-Medium Duty Application
Polyester Strapping: Medium-Heavy Duty Application
Steel Strapping: Heavy-Extra Heavy Duty Application

What is the Difference Between Polyester and Polypropylene Strapping?

The most obvious difference between polyester and polypropylene strapping is their appearance, polyester is usually, though not always, smooth, glossy and green, while polypropylene has more colour variation and an embossed look.
Polyester strapping has superior characteristics to polypropylene strapping, polyester strapping has breaking strengths closer to steel strapping capabilities and though it loses tension over time, it retains its tension much longer than polypropylene strapping.
Polypropylene strapping is more brittle than polyester and tends to break easier whereas polyester has more stretch to it.
Polypropylene strapping is recommended for light to medium duty applications while polyester strapping is recommended for medium to heavy duty applications.
However, they do have their similarities, for example, both degrade in performance with exposure to UV or extreme temperature changes. Both straps can be used with tensioners, sealers and metals seals, but when it comes to mechanical equipment, polyester strap requires a friction weld tool or machine to seal it, whereas polypropylene strap can be melted and used on lighter duty machinery including fully and semi-automatic strapping machines.

Should you use Polyester or Steel Strapping?

Polyester strap has a higher elasticity than metal (steel) strap. This means that polyester is able to stretch and give if your product shifts, expands or contracts during transit, it also does not leave rust marks reducing the risk of damaging your product.
Polyester strap does not have sharp edges, and does not snap back when cut like steel, decreasing the chance of user injury.
Overall, unless you have a heavy, dense product that requires sturdy metal straps, polyester strapping is the perfect packaging alternative to steel; save on the costs of materials and labor, and increase productivity. Coils are lighter so more user friendly, softer material reduces potential damage to product and, longer rolls means less roll changes and less warehouse space required.

For more information visit our Knowledge Centre:

Steel Strap vs Polyester Strap