PP or PET Strapping - Which Band Is the Right Choice?
PP and PET cover different load ranges: polypropylene for light, pressure-sensitive goods, PET for heavy pallets that need lasting tension. This guide compares break strength, elongation, retained tension and pallet load to show which band fits which job.
View strapping bandsHow do PP and PET differ at their core?
Polypropylene (PP) and polyester (PET) are the two dominant plastics for strapping. PP is light, elastic and low-cost and suits hand strapping of light cartons. PET is stiffer, far stronger and holds tension for a long time, which lets it replace steel strap on many heavy loads.
The core difference is the interplay of break strength, elongation and retained tension. PP stretches a lot and releases the applied tension quickly. PET stretches little, stores the tension and pulls back elastically when the goods settle.
Break strength, elongation and retained tension compared
Four values decide which band carries and secures the load. Break strength limits the maximum load, elongation at break describes elasticity, and retained tension shows how much preload still holds after hours.
PP loses a large share of its tension within minutes of closing - fine for rigid cartons, not enough for settling loads. PET keeps a high share of the preload for days and works elastically as the goods contract.
When to use PP and when PET - concrete choice
The choice follows pallet weight, the behaviour of the goods and the sealing method. PP is mostly applied by hand or battery tool with a friction-weld seal, PET additionally with tensioners and seals up into heavy load ranges.
- Choose PP: light cartons, bundling, newspapers, pressure-sensitive and rigid goods up to about 250 kg.
- Choose PET: pallets from medium load upward, bricks, beverages, metal, timber and all settling or yielding goods.
- PET instead of steel: no sharp edges, no rust, lower weight at comparable holding force.
- Match width and thickness to the load: wider and thicker means higher break force.
- Select a friction-weld or crimp seal to suit the band and the tool.
Frequently asked questions
Can PET replace steel strap?
In many applications yes. PET reaches high break force and retained tension, yet has no sharp edges, does not rust and is lighter. For extreme edge loads and very high forces steel keeps the edge.
Why does PP lose tension so fast?
PP has high elongation at break and a marked tendency to creep. The applied preload drops within minutes, so PP only makes sense for rigid, light goods.
Which band width do I need?
PP usually runs from 5 to 16 mm, PET from 9 to 19 mm. Wider and thicker band raises break force. The exact choice follows pallet weight and sealing tool.
Does PET need a special sealing tool?
PET is sealed with friction-weld battery tools or with a tensioner and seal. Hand tools and seals must match the band thickness, otherwise the seal will not hold the high tension.
PP or PET - we help you choose the right band
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Right break force
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High retained tension
PET holds preload even under settling loads.
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