Combined strapping heads
A combined head, allows you to strap with two types of strap from a single solution: steel strap and polyester strap (PET). A combined head can offer the possibility of using different strap sizes, either from the same strap or from different types of straps.
How does a SAIZAR combined strapping head work
In our solutions, a single head integrates two strapping lines: one for steel strap and another for PET strap. You choose which one to work with depending on the product to be strapped.
It makes sense when:
- You send the same product to different customers with different strapping requirements.
- You need to be able to switch between maximum strength (steel) and cost/operational optimization (PET), depending on each shipment.
- You want to standardize your machine and decide on the strapping “on the spot”, without redesigning the installation.
- Depending on the product to be strapped and its subsequent handling.
Two strapping lines: Steel + PET on the same strapping head
We set up the head with two lines (steel and polyester) to alternate between both types of strap when needed, but it is not possible to work with both at the same time.
Several lines for different sizes of the same strap
We can also set up the strapping head with multiple lines to work with different dimensions of the same strap (whether steel or PET). In automatic strapping projects, it is common to work with dimensions such as 16, 19, 25, and 32 mm, depending on the needs of each customer & project.
Selection from the control panel + intelligent system
You can choose the type and size of strap to use for strapping from the control panel (HMI).
Our heads incorporate an intelligent strapping system: we know the position of the strap at all times and can automatically resolve any misalignments during the strapping process. In other words, if any anomalies occur during the strap feeding & collection process, the strapping head detects them and attempts to resolve the problem automatically without the need for operator intervention.
Operational and cost advantages at plant
By designing your strapping machine to work with both steel and PET strapping on a single machine, you can save money as you can use both consumables within the same installation.
Typical benefits (depending on your situation):
Instant flexibility:
ou choose steel or PET depending on the product/customer, without changing machines
Standardization:
of architecture, spare parts and training (a single structure, common elements).
No need to purchase two completely separate machines:
which makes the project more expensive, as well as requiring more space for installation at the customer’s premises
Consumable cost optimization:
Technical/commercial documentation for the sector indicates that, depending on similarities and use cases, PET can provide saving compared to steel (values of ‘up to ~30%’ are cited in some scenarios)
Fewer stops for changes:
selection from the control panel and automatic management of strap misalignment
One strapping station for both types of strapping heads:
if they were separate equipment, the customer would need to have two strapping stations available
Common types of sealing: Steel vs PET
In a combined strapping head, it is important to understand that steel and PET do not have the same sealing system:
- PET Strap: el sellado suele ser por fricción/vibración, descrita en fichas técnicas del sector como un método eficiente y consistente.
- Steel Strap: we work with notched sealing systems, with fasteners and TIG welding points, depending on the application and requirements.
Industrial steel strapping heads often operate in adverse conditions, where high reliability, efficiency, safety, etc. are required. Therefore, the type of seal and the dimensions of the system are critical for your application.
Typical applications and usage scenarios
A combined head is particularly suitable if:
- You have several formats or families of products.
- You make frequent changes depending on the customer, product or destination.
- You want to unify the strapping platform while maintaining the option of strapping based on the shipment.
How to choose your setup
Type of product:
to be strapped, format, dimensions, weight and number of straps to be applied
Type(s) of strap:
steel, PET o both, and the reason (shipping requirements, internal regulations, etc.)
Width of Strap:
16, 19, 25 or 32mm
Tension target:
and handling/transport conditions after strapping
Cadence / productivity:
and environment (dust, temperature, access)
Integration:
strapping head position, available space and line layout
Contact our technical department for a customised solution
Integration in Automatic Strapping Machines and packing lines
We integrate the combined strapping head into an Automatic Strapping Machine or a Packing line, along with:
Strapping dispenser
Strap accumulators
The structure with its movement system
The bow, spears or strap guides
The desk with its control panel or HMI
The hydraulic group
We can propose installations where the same machine straps with steel and/or PET, in different dimensions, depending on your application.
Service, spare parts and support
If you need operational continuity, after-sales technical support matters: in addition during the project, we will support you with technical service and spare parts supply, to maintain system performance over time.
Frequently asked questions
What is a combination strapping head?
It is a head that can work with steel strapping and PET strap from a single solution, using strapping lines configured for each type, or a strapping head that can work with different sizes of strap.
Can I choose from the panel whether to use steel or PET strapping?
Yes, you can choose the type or size of strap from the control panel.
Can the same strapping head work with multiple sizes?
Yes, we can set up several lines to work with different dimensions of the same strap (steel or PET).
What are the advantages of having two strapping units on a single machine?
You gain flexibility and can achieve financial savings by using both consumables in a single installation, avoiding duplicate platforms and avoiding duplicating the space required for equipment implementation.
How is the PET strap sealed automatically?
Normally by friction/vibration (friction welding), a method described in technical documentation in the sector as efficient and consistent.
How is steel strapping sealed?
We can work with different sealing systems, whether by notching, with a binder or with TIG welding points, depending on the application and requirements.
What does it mean the strapping head to be “intelligent”?
It knows the position of the strap and can automatically correct misalignment and even abnormal situations.
When to choose steel and when to choose PET?
It depends on the product to be strapped, the shipping requirements and the operating cost. Industry documentation points to potential savings with PET compared to steel in certain equivalents, but we always validate this on a case-by-case basis.
What information do I need to provide to define the combined strapping head?
Product (type and dimensions), strap width, type of strapping required for the product, type of sealing desired, cadence and conditions for integration into your machine/line.
Can a combined head with various sizes of steel and PET be considered?
Yes, the concept of “multiple lines” allows you to configure different sizes of the same strap, as well as combine steel and PET if your project requires it.