Role of Metal Strapping
A process through which a metal is applied with an elongated flap or a ribbon made of metal is known as metal strapping. Stabilization, combination, reinforcement, holding and fastening a metal are the main importance of applying metal strappings. Metal strapping majorly those made of steel are commonly used since they have high tensile strength with minimal stretch. Various metal straps are usually in a variety of thicknesses, widths as well as various grades of a metal. When metal strappings are applied on a metal, they require surface finishing which can be made of either wax, paint, use of zinc or even bluing. Wax is essential as a surface finish for enhancing transmission of tension around a bundle. Metal strappings are used for as bundling items for easier handling and movement needed. Metal strappings also helps in attaching items, for reinforcement as well as securing unit loads such as of metal parts.
Metal strapping requires that once the strap has been tensioned, it be sealed to itself. Joints used for sealing are quite a number which enables sealing of metal straps including seal and notch joint, seal less joint, use of a seal and crimp as well as welding to seal them. These seals are in various shapes which depends on where they are to be used. Seals can be used on the metal strappings either before tension has been applied or after it has been applied. There are two types of tools necessary for metal strapping which include use of strapping machine or use of hand tools. Both the two types of tools require a dispenser which is used in the process of dispensing the strap. For both the two types of tools, they can either be manually operated or be automatically operated.
Accidents and injuries are common in an environment dealing with metal strappings hence precautionary measures should be put in place to prevent occurrence of such. One should have proper protective gear such as safety glasses and thick gloves which protects a person in case the metal strappings happen to lash out once they are cut. Use of proper tools is also important to promise for ones safety when cutting and sealing the metal strappings and never at any time should one use tolls nort meant for working with metal strapping. A person working with metal strapping should also at all times maintain a safe distance in case the strapping lashes out as well as when cutting them, it should be done in square shapes as this prevents coming up with edge that are sharp and pointed hence minimizing the chances of an injury. Finally, cleanliness of the working environment should be maintained by ensuring that all scarps present a removed regularly and this prevents the occurrence of injuries.