Steel strap widths and packaging options

Steel strap is supplied in 16, 19, 25 or 32 mm widths. You can order a 25 kg coil, a set of 10 coils (250 kg) or a pallet of 40 coils (1000 kg). The 25 kg and 1000 kg packs are coated and painted for improved rust resistance compared to bare steel. Steel strap is used to secure heavy loads in industrial and warehouse settings.

The strap width should match both your banding tool and the weight of your load. For the same thickness, a wider strap supports a heavier load. For example, when securing heavy stone or metal profiles, a 32 mm strap will carry more weight than a 16 mm strap. Always refer to the table below to ensure your tool is compatible with the strap width you intend to use.

Store steel strap coils in a dry area and off the ground to prevent moisture damage and accidental knocks. If you collect a pallet of 40 coils, arrange for unloading with a forklift or pallet truck, as the total weight is 1000 kg. In a busy warehouse, keeping coils organised on racks or pallets helps prevent accidents and makes stock control easier.

Choosing a metal strapping tool by drive type

Manual metal strapping tools include the BO-51 for 13–20 mm strap and the A3 for 13–19 mm strap. The A4 is a sealless metal strapping tool for 25–32 mm strap. Pneumatic metal strapping tools are the AIR Metal for 19–32 mm strap and the AIR DUO32 for 19–32 mm strap. Battery powered tools are the AKU-STEEL DUO and ELECTRA M SERIES. The ELECTRA M SERIES is suitable for 19, 25 or 32 mm strap.

Manual tools such as the BO-51 and A3 are used where there is no access to power or compressed air. These tools cover strap widths from 13–20 mm and 13–19 mm, with tension applied by hand. The joint is sealless, so there is no need to purchase or store banding clips. Manual tools are ideal for packing lines or warehouses where only a few straps are applied daily, or where mobility is needed and power is unavailable.

Pneumatic tools like the AIR Metal and AIR DUO32 require a compressed air supply at the workstation. Both are suitable for strap widths from 19–32 mm. The AIR Metal makes the joint using a banding clip, while the AIR DUO32 uses a separate tensioner and sealer. In production areas with high throughput, pneumatic tools can speed up strapping and reduce operator fatigue, but you must ensure compressed air is available at each strapping point.

Battery powered tools such as the AKU-STEEL DUO and ELECTRA M SERIES do not require an air hose. The AKU-STEEL DUO is a combined strapping tool and tensioner for 19–32 mm strap, while the ELECTRA M SERIES is a tensioner and sealer for 19, 25 or 32 mm strap. These tools are useful when you need to move between packing stations or work in areas without a fixed air supply. For example, on a loading bay or in a yard, battery tools allow you to strap loads without being restricted by hoses or cables.

The A4 is a sealless tool for 25–32 mm strap. If your warehouse uses wider strap sizes, the A4 lets you work without banding clips for these widths. Pneumatic and battery powered tools use a motor to tension the strap, which is important when strapping many pallets or bundles per shift, as it reduces operator strain and keeps tension consistent.

Table of metal strapping tools by drive and joint

The table below lists each metal strapping tool by drive type, compatible strap width and the joint type it produces. Use it to compare the tools in this category.

To use the table, first find the strap width you require for your loads. Then check which drive type you can provide at your packing station: manual for hand operation, pneumatic if you have compressed air, or battery if you prefer to work without hoses. Finally, note the joint type: some tools make a sealless joint, others use a banding clip. For example, if you have 19 mm strap and compressed air, the AIR Metal may be suitable. If you need a sealless joint for 25–32 mm strap, the A4 is the choice. For 13–20 mm strap, the BO-51 or A3 are sealless tools. The table helps you match your load, your working environment and your preferred joint method.

Steel strap banding clips and joint types

A sealless metal strapping tool such as the BO-51, A3 or A4 creates a joint that does not require a banding clip. The AIR Metal forms the joint using a banding clip. For manual strapping, the shop supplies 16 x 40 mm steel strap banding clips, packed 1000 per box.

For pneumatic banding tools, banding clips are available in four sizes: 16 x 40, 19 x 57, 25 x 57 and 32 x 57 mm. These are designed for use with pneumatic tools such as the AIR Metal. Order the clips together with the strap, ensuring the widths match, so you can begin metal strapping as soon as your materials are collected.

A sealless joint is formed when the tool cuts and locks the two layers of strap together, so there is no need to purchase or store banding clips. This applies to the BO-51, A3 and A4 models. In practice, using a sealless tool means fewer consumables to manage and less risk of running out of clips during a shift. For example, when banding timber bundles in a yard, you only need the tool and the strap at hand.

A clip joint is created by crimping a metal banding clip around the two overlapping ends of the strap. The clip must be the correct width for the strap, or the joint will not hold securely. The AIR Metal forms the joint in this way. If the wrong size clip is used, the strap may slip or the joint could fail during handling. For instance, using a 16 x 40 mm clip on a 25 mm strap will not secure the load and could result in product damage.

Banding cart for safe handling of steel strap

The HS5 banding cart is designed to hold the coil and dispense the strap in a controlled manner. Steel strap should never be unwound by hand, as this can lead to tangling or safety hazards.

Position the banding cart next to the load you are strapping. Pull out the required length of strap and use a strap cutter to separate it from the coil. This approach keeps the strap under control and minimises waste. For example, when strapping pallets in a despatch area, using the cart helps you work more efficiently and keeps the area clear of loose strap, which could be a tripping hazard.

When to use steel strapping

Metal strapping is chosen for loads that are heavy, have sharp edges or must remain completely secure. Typical uses include metal coils and profiles, pipes, timber, bricks and stone, and crates. Steel strap has minimal stretch, so it maintains its hold on loads that do not settle during storage or transport.

If the load settles or shrinks, metal strapping may become loose, as the strap does not stretch to take up slack. For goods that may compress or change shape, another banding material may be more suitable. Steel strapping is selected for its stability and strength where movement must be prevented.

If your goods are likely to settle or shrink during storage or transport, a plastic strap with some stretch can maintain its tension better than steel. For example, on a packing line for cartons of compressed fibres, plastic strap may be more appropriate. Metal strapping is used where movement must be prevented and the load remains stable, not where the load changes shape after banding.

Safe handling and cutting of metal strapping

The edges of metal strapping are sharp, so always wear gloves when handling steel strap. When cutting a tensioned strap, use a strap cutter and wear eye protection. Tensioned steel strap can spring back when cut, posing a risk of injury.

Stand to the side when cutting metal strapping, not directly in front of it. Using a dispenser such as the HS5 prevents the coil from unwinding unexpectedly and helps avoid tangling. Safe handling reduces the risk of workplace accidents.

Keep the coil in the banding cart to prevent it from unwinding on its own, which can cause tangling or create a hazard. After cutting, clear strap ends from the floor immediately to avoid trips and punctures. In a busy packing area, leaving cut strap on the floor can cause accidents or damage to equipment such as pallet trucks or forklifts.

What determines the price of a metal strapping tool

The price of a metal strapping tool depends on the drive type, the strap width it supports, and whether it uses a clip or forms a sealless joint. Ongoing costs are determined by the price of steel strap and, if required, banding clips. The price for each tool is shown on its product card.

A sealless tool does not require clips, which can reduce your consumable costs over time. Each product card includes a Get offer button for a quote, for example for a tool with strap and clips, and an Add to inquiry button so you can group several products into one request. This helps you plan your purchase and compare the total cost for your packing line.

What to check before ordering metal strapping

Before ordering metal strapping, check the type and weight of your load. The strap width must be suitable for the application. Steel strap is available in 16, 19, 25 or 32 mm widths. The number of straps used per day will influence your choice between manual, pneumatic or battery powered banding tools.

Check if compressed air is available at your site for pneumatic tools. Decide whether you need a clip joint or a sealless joint. Plan how you will handle the coils: steel strap is supplied as a 25 kg coil, as 10 coils (250 kg), or as a pallet of 40 coils (1000 kg).

Check if compressed air is available at your workplace. Pneumatic tools such as the AIR Metal and AIR DUO32 require a compressed air supply. If there is no air supply, choose a manual or battery powered tool. For example, in a remote storage yard, a battery tool allows you to work without hoses.

Frequently asked questions about metal strapping

Which widths of steel strap are available?

Steel strap is available in 16, 19, 25 and 32 mm widths. Some tools, such as the BO-51 and A3, also work with 13 mm strap.

Are banding clips needed for metal strapping?

Sealless tools such as the BO-51, A3 and A4 create a joint that does not require a clip. The AIR Metal forms the joint with a clip; clips are available in several sizes.

Should I choose a pneumatic or battery powered metal strapping tool?

Pneumatic tools such as the AIR Metal and AIR DUO32 are powered by compressed air. Battery powered tools like the AKU-STEEL DUO and ELECTRA M SERIES run on a battery and do not require an air hose.

How is steel strap packed for collection?

Steel strap is supplied as a 25 kg coil, as 10 coils (250 kg), or as a pallet of 40 coils (1000 kg). The 25 kg and 1000 kg packs are coated and painted.