Solutions for High Heat, Freezing Temperatures, and Moisture
For a safe working environment, employees who work with strapping materials must be familiar with how extreme temperatures can affect the integrity of straps and load security. Often, a contributing factor to strap failure isn’t poorly secured straps, but rather the result of extreme temperatures and moisture that decrease the load-bearing capacity of straps. If you frequently work in extreme temperatures or with moisture, selecting the right strapping materials for the job is even more crucial. At USA Strapping, we provide you with the equipment and materials necessary to work efficiently and safely. Let’s take a closer look at how extreme conditions can impact strapping products.
How Temperature Affects Strapping Materials
Both heat and cold can affect how much weight straps can safely handle. This varies depending on the type of strapping material. Common materials used to make straps include:
- Polypropylene
- Polyester (PET)
- Steel straps
- Cord strapping
Polypropylene straps are susceptible to heat and often soften and stretch at high temperatures, which can lead to failure or elongation. Polyester straps are much more tolerant of higher temperatures, making them an excellent alternative strapping material for hot environments. Steel straps tend to maintain their full strength rating in both cold and hot temperatures, but may expand slightly when exposed to prolonged heat. They can also start to corrode if exposed to moisture. Composite strapping and cord strapping are effective in wet environments, but they can lose some of their protective coating when exposed to heat or UV rays. Knowing how these straps interact with extreme temperatures and moisture is crucial to ensuring the safety of your working environment.
Best Strapping Products for Working in High-Heat Environments
If you plan to use strapping products in high-heat environments, steel strapping is the best option by far. Steel is the go-to choice for these environments due to its:
- Ability to maintain tensile strength under high temperatures
- Resistance to softening or stretching under heat
- UV resistance
However, if you are working in a high-moisture environment, steel straps may not be the best choice, as they can corrode and rust. There are several types of steel straps with corrosion-resistant coatings. These straps can be more expensive, but their protective coating enables the use of steel straps for a broader range of applications.
Best Strapping Products for Freezing Conditions
For freezing conditions, PET strapping beats out all other strapping materials when price is considered. Benefits of PET strapping in freezing conditions include:
- Its ability to maintain flexibility even well below freezing
- Its ability not to become brittle in cold conditions
- Its ability to maintain tension in cold environments
- Ease of handling in cold conditions
While steel straps also perform well in cold environments, they are better suited for heavier loads, as their price can become a factor. Steel straps also tend to collect ice in freezing environments and can damage your merchandise if they freeze to the packaging. To get the best deal on all the strapping products you need at the lowest prices online, contact our team at USA Strapping today.
Get the Best Deal on Strapping Materials for Extreme Working Environments at USA Strapping
Whether you’re searching for a strong material to secure heavy loads in hot temperatures or an affordable strap for securing cargo in cold conditions, USA Strapping is your one-stop shop. Start browsing our selection of strapping products and strapping tools today, and be sure to contact our team at 888-768-0001 to inquire about our excellent bulk discounts!