When To Use Handheld vs. Operator Cycled Strapping Machines for Your Packaging

It doesn't matter what you're manufacturing; chances are straps will play a part at some point along the way. From containing individual items to closing cartons of loose material to palletizing thousands of products at a time, businesses use strapping systems for packaging and moving their goods every day.

Mastek Product Page

This widespread need for containment has led to a variety of strapping devices, including handheld strappers and walk-up or operator-cycled machines, both of which are ideal strapping solutions in the correct setting.

An Overview of Handheld Strappers

Handheld strappers are portable devices that allow individuals to strap on the move. They are battery-powered and often designed with ergonomics in mind to reduce fatigue during use, given their heavily human-dependent nature.

Handheld strappers are simple and straightforward to use. The operator manually aligns the two ends of a plastic strap, then tightens and heats them together, creating a secure bond that maintains packaging integrity.

The clear advantage of using a handheld strapper is its ability to function in nearly any environment. Their portability makes them ideal for unique circumstances, leading to extensive use in industries such as chemical, textile, logistics, and agriculture.

Affordability is another key selling point. Handheld strappers are relatively small and don't require significant capital investment.

A Look at Operator-Cycled Strapping Machines

For enterprises with larger strapping needs, operator-cycled machines are suitable. These are either semi-automatic or automatic devices that require human operation or supervision.

Unlike a handheld strapper, operator cycles handle most of the work. In semi-automatic models, the operator places a product on the machine table and feeds the strap into the device. The machine is activated via a foot bar or footswitch, initiating the strapping cycle where it tightens, seals, and cuts the strap.

Operator-cycled automatic machines, also known as walk-up machines, feature a built-in strap feed track. In this case, the operator simply places the package on the machine table and starts the cycle.

Walk-up machines are larger and stationary, making them effective in assembly line environments where products arrive at a designated location. While less mobile than handheld versions, they significantly increase the packaging process's speed, facilitating tasks like carton closing and low-volume bundling of loose materials.

Semi-automated operator-cycled machines remain an economical option, while automated models can justify the added cost through saved time and increased output.

How to Choose the Right Strapper for Your Application

Selecting the right strapper requires careful analysis. Consider the following questions to help narrow your choices:

• What is the maximum size of the goods you need to strap?
  The weight and type of load can influence your decision, especially regarding the optimal arch size for operator-cycled machines.
• What weather conditions will the strapped packages face?
  If packages will be exposed to the elements, this may necessitate a more thorough packaging process, which an operator-cycled machine can provide.
• What are the physical characteristics of the packages you need to strap?
  Factors like load integrity and corners can determine whether a handheld or operator-cycled machine is appropriate.
• How fast do you want to strap your products?
  For occasional strapping needs, a handheld unit should suffice. However, if you need to package hundreds or thousands of units daily, a semi-automatic or automatic strapper can be transformative.

These questions can assist in identifying the specific strapping requirements of each organization, ensuring the selection of the right machine for their circumstances.

How and When To Upgrade to an Automated Strapping Machine

Many businesses begin with a handheld strapper, providing high strapping quality, albeit in smaller quantities. As company production scales, upgrading to an automated strapping machine often makes sense.

Automatic strapping systems are in-line devices that substantially improve throughput, efficiency, and productivity. They feature a broader selection of programmable options, giving operators more control over the manufacturing process while accommodating customized needs without slowing output.

Finding the Best Strapping System for Your Business

Determining the best strapping machine for your business can be challenging, considering the numerous options in handheld, semi-automatic, and automatic categories.

Fortunately, the expert team at Mastek is available to assist. With 40 years of experience in strapping, we offer professional advice for every need. From cost-effective pre-designed solutions to custom-built systems, we are ready to help you find the ideal strapping solution for your business.