Choosing the Right Strapping Tool for Polyester or Steel Strap
A practical guide to battery, manual and pneumatic tools—plus how to match each option to your load, strap and workflow.
Quick chooser
- Battery tool + PET (Polyester) strap: best everyday choice for pallets and general freight where speed and ergonomics matter.
- Pneumatic + Steel strap: heavy or sharp loads, high-volume stations, consistent tension/seal at a fixed bench.
- Manual + Steel/PET: low-volume, remote or backup use where air/power isn’t available.
What you’ll need
- Strap: PET / Plastic Strap or Steel Strap
- Closures (where needed): Seals & Buckles (PET), Seals (Steel)
- Tool: Battery/Plastic Strapping Tools or pneumatic/manual options below
Polyester (PET) Strap & Battery Tools
Battery tools pair well with PET strap for fast, consistent tensioning and sealing—ideal for pallets and mixed freight. They reduce operator fatigue, maintain repeatable tension, and keep lines moving.
Why operators choose battery tools
- Portable and ergonomic for all-day use
- Consistent tension & seal quality across shifts
- Quicker cycles vs. manual tools, fewer reworks
- Good weather/UV resistance when used with PET
Siat GT-Xtreme (Battery)
- Stainless wear parts built for long service life
- Up to 4,200 N tension for heavier loads
- Manual, semi-auto, auto and soft modes
- Approx. 4.0 kg incl. battery—balanced and easy to handle
Works with PET strap (typically 12–19 mm). See Plastic Strap and Seals & Buckles.
Steel Strap: Manual & Pneumatic Tools
Steel remains the standard for very heavy, dense or sharp-edged loads. Choose manual tools for simple or remote jobs; step up to pneumatic at fixed stations for speed and repeatability.
Siat ST-IMA (Manual Combination)
- Tension, seal and cut with one compact tool
- Mobile and durable—great for multi-station use
- Reliable choice for low–mid volumes
Browse Steel Strap and Steel Seals.
Siat STSR (Pneumatic)
- Suited to high-volume benches and large packs
- Handles common steel widths (e.g., 19–32 mm)
- Consistent, low-effort tensioning and sealing
When to use steel + pneumatic
- Very heavy or sharp-edged products (steel, pavers, machinery)
- Fixed workstations with air supply and repeatable packs
- Targets: faster cycles, consistent seals, lower operator strain
How to choose (quick checklist)
- Load & edge risk: heavy/sharp → consider steel; general pallets → PET is often enough.
- Throughput: higher volumes → battery or pneumatic to keep cycles consistent.
- Power/air: no air/power on site → manual or battery tools.
- Strap size: match tool to strap width and thickness for proper tension/seal.
- Closures: check if your tool needs seals/buckles or creates a seal without them.
Need a hand? Contact our team for a recommendation based on your pack photos or a quick call.
Ready to kit out your strapping station?
Pair the right tool with the right strap and closures for fewer reworks and safer loads.
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