Are You Still Using Steel Banding? 5 Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Be.

Posted on April 4, 2014 by Erik Burden

Do you want to enhance workplace safety?

Do you want a cost-effective strapping solution?

Are you still using steel banding?

Traditional steel banding has long been the industry standard and is still in widespread use today. You may be using steel banding to secure your heavy-duty cargo because it’s what you are familiar with.

But steel banding is no longer the only choice.

Through technological advancements, synthetic cord strapping/lashing has become as strong and reliable as steel – but with fewer risks and costs. In my experience, synthetic strapping alleviates many of the common problems with steel strapping without any major drawbacks.

So ask yourself: why you would continue to use steel banding when a superior option is available?

I will explain the key reasons why you should switch from steel strapping to synthetic cord strapping based on an analysis of the benefits of synthetic strapping.

1. Synthetic Strapping is Less Expensive

Steel banding is more costly than synthetic cord strapping. Furthermore, steel banding can be difficult to budget for because the cost can change based on the price of the base metal.

Synthetic strapping is more cost-effective and the price remains stable, so you will always be able to factor it into your budget with confidence.

2. Synthetic Strapping is Safer

Even when smoothed and de-burred, steel banding can be a safety hazard. All it takes is a moment of carelessness, and even an experienced employee can be injured. When a tightened steel band is cut improperly, it releases with strength. Its sharp edges can cause deep gashes on the user, particularly on the face.

Synthetic cord strapping is made of polyester, addressing this safety hazard. Securing cargo with synthetic strapping and lashing reduces lost-time accidents and injuries. Not to mention, fewer injuries = fewer liability claims.

3. Synthetic Strapping is Ergonomically Friendly

On average, steel banding coils weigh about 100 pounds. Many users struggle with loading these heavy coils into the dispenser. The weight of the steel can cause an accident that leads to an injury, or create a built-up strain injury over time.

Synthetic strapping/lashing is lighter and easier to handle. Each coil weighs only 50 pounds on average, which is much more manageable for the user.

4. Synthetic Strapping Won’t Damage Your Cargo

Scratches. Tears. Rust. Stains. Steel banding can damage your cargo, particularly if you’re transporting anything with exposed paint, vulnerable surfaces, or tires.

Synthetic strapping has rounded edges that don’t scratch paint or damage loads. It won’t rust or stain your cargo, either.

5. Synthetic Strapping Conforms to Settling Loads

Once applied, steel banding does not stretch. If your load settles while in transit, your steel banding will no longer be wrapped tightly around it. This leads to shifting loads, potential damage, and safety hazards. I have often seen pallets with loosely hanging steel-banding after the load has settled.

As you may expect, synthetic strapping stretches. If your load settles, synthetic cord strapping will simply conform to the new load perimeter and continue to hold tightly.

The Bottom Line

Steel banding is rapidly becoming an outdated form of cargo securement. Synthetic cord strapping/lashing is superior, while maintaining the strength necessary for heavy loads.

>> Get Tex-Steel synthetic cord strapping/lashing from Complete Packaging Systems – it’s as strong as steel and suitable for railcar, truck, or ocean containers! Contact us today.

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