Quick Answer
PET strapping is a safe, rust-free alternative to steel banding for most heavy loads. It matches steel's holding power (up to 1,400 Kgf, or 8,000 Kgf with cord strap), absorbs shock to retain tension, eliminates rust, sharp edges and dangerous recoil, is lighter and recyclable, and costs less. For the heaviest loads, composite cord strap extends the safe alternative. Greenstrix supplies both.
Holding power
Steel banding has secured heavy loads for over a century, but PET strapping now matches it for most loads. PET handles up to 1,400 Kgf, and where loads exceed that, composite cord strap extends the alternative to 8,000 Kgf. Crucially, PET elongates slightly and recovers, absorbing shock and retaining tension as loads settle - where rigid steel can go slack or snap.
Safety
This is where PET wins decisively. Steel banding has sharp edges that cause cut injuries, and it recoils violently when cut under tension - a serious workplace hazard. PET has no sharp edges and no dangerous recoil, removing the most common strapping injuries. For any operation focused on worker safety, this alone justifies the switch.
Rust, weight and recyclability
Steel rusts, staining and contaminating goods and creating disposal hazards; PET never rusts and will not stain finished metal, paper or food products. PET is far lighter, reducing handling effort and transport weight, and it is fully recyclable through PET streams - while contaminated steel banding is difficult to recycle. rPET options cut virgin plastic further.
Cost and the verdict
PET strapping typically costs less than steel banding, needs no separate seals on friction-weld systems, and removes the hidden costs of injuries, rust contamination and scrap disposal. For the large majority of heavy loads, PET (and cord strap for the heaviest) is the safer, cleaner, cheaper choice. Greenstrix supplies certified PET strapping and composite cord strap - request a sample to test the switch on your own loads.
| Key | Detail |
|---|---|
| Holding power | PET to 1,400 Kgf; cord strap to 8,000 Kgf |
| Safety | No sharp edges, no recoil |
| Rust | None - won't stain goods |
| Cost | Typically lower than steel + fewer hidden costs |
Related Guides
- EN 12195 Cargo Securing Guide
- rPET Explained: Recycled PET Strapping
- Packaging Cost Reduction: 6 Ways to Save
Ready to move off steel banding? Contact Greenstrix at sales@greenstrix.com or WhatsApp +49 176 85614141 to request a sample, a bulk quote, or talk to an expert.