Steel Strapping Tools
All the strapping tool options for regular duty to heavy duty applications. Manual, combo, and battery-operated tools available for steel and poly strap.
Vulcan Wire offers a selection of steel strapping tools to help you handle the various demands of your day to day business. There are a variety of tools available for both regular- and heavy-duty applications. Manual tools may include a tensioner, sealer, strap cutter, and dispenser. For greater efficiency and high-volume needs, combo tools are also available.
Note that tools are available for strap sizes up to 2”, and they are sold to specifically match the strap size, seal type, and application. Be sure to order the appropriate size for your needs. As always, if you aren’t sure which product is right for you, feel free to contact us directly for assistance.
Steel Strapping Tensioner
Steel strapping is of no use if it is not tight around the pallet or any other item that it is being used to contain. Through the use of a manual strapping tensioner, you can quickly and easily tighten your straps.
| Load Type | Strap Width (inches) | Strap Thickness | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| FLAT | 3/8 – 3/4 | .018 – .023 | LIGHT DUTY FEEDWHEEL |
| FLAT | 3/8 – 3/4 | .018 – .025 | MED DUTY FEEDWHEEL |
| FLAT | 3/4 – 11/4 | .025 – .035 | HD FEEDWHEEL |
| FLAT | 3/4 – 11/4 | .025 – .035 | HD WINDLASS |
| IRREGULAR | 5/8 – 11/4 | .023 – .035 | HD PUSHER FEEDWHEEL |
| IRREGULAR | 5/8 – 11/4 | .023 – .035 | HD PUSHER RACK |
Steel Strapping Sealer
Once steel straps have been tightened, they need to be sealed in order to maintain the tension that has been placed in the straps. With a sealer on hand, this is an easy job. Simply load the seal on the strap, secure the seal with the tool, and move on to the next one.
| Load Type | Strap Width (inches) | Strap Thickness | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| OPEN SEAL | 3/8 – 3/4 | .015 – .023 | REG DUTY DOUBLE NOTCH FRONT |
| OPEN SEAL | 1/2 – 3/4 | .025 – .031 | HD DOUBLE NOTCH FRONT |
| OPEN SEAL | 3/4 – 1 1/4 | .025 – .035 | HD DOUBLE REVERSE NOTCH SIDE |
| CLOSED SEAL | 3/8 – 3/4 | .015 – .023 | REG DUTY SINGLE REV. NOTCH FRONT |
| CLOSED SEAL | 3/4 – 1 1/4 | .025 – .035 | HD SINGLE REVERSE NOTCH SIDE |
| CLOSED SEAL | 3/4 – 1 1/4 | .025 – .035 | HD DOUBLE REVERSE NOTCH SIDE |
Steel Strap Cutter
As the name would indicate, a strap cutter is the perfect tool to trim up your strap to an appropriate length after it has been sealed. Vulcan Wire offers both single-hand and two-hand cutters, depending on the size of the straps that need to be cut.
| Load Type | Strap Width (inches) | Strap Thickness | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| SINGLE HAND | 3/8 – 3/4 | UP TO .028 | REG DUTY SHEARS |
| SINGLE HAND | 3/8 – 1 1/4 | UP TO .031 | MED DUTY SHEARS |
| TWO HAND | 3/4 – 2″ | UP TO .044 | HD SHEARS |
Steel Combo Tool
To improve your efficiency when using strapping, consider a combo tool, which is able to roll three jobs into a single device. Our combo tool can add tension to the strap, crimp it closed, and cut the excess strapping. Tools are available that do not need seals.
| Load Type | Strap Width (inches) | Strap Thickness | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| NO SEALS | 1/2 -3/4 | .015 – .025 | MANUAL TRIPLE NOTCH SEALLESS |
Steel Strapping Cart
A strapping cart is a great way to keep both your strapping and the assorted tools that go with it all together in a convenient, portable manner.
| Load Type | Strap Width (inches) | Strap Thickness | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| OSCILLATED | 3/8 – 3/4 | .015 – .023 | REG DUTY – 8″ & 16″ CORE |
| OSCILLATED | 1/2 – 3/4 | .020 – .031 | STRAP TROLLER – 16″ CORE |
| RIBBON | 3/4 – 2″ | .029 – .044 | STRAP TROLLER – 16″ CORE |
Get a Quote
At Vulcan Wire, we take pride in offering only high-quality products to our customers, and we provide service to match. Contact us today to build your steel strapping tool kit!
Frequently Asked Questions About Steel Strapping Tools
What are steel strapping tools used for?
Steel strapping tools are used to tension, seal/crimp, and cut steel strap so loads stay tightly secured on pallets, crates, and irregular shipments during storage and transit.
What tools are included in a manual steel strapping setup?
A manual steel strapping tool setup may include:
- Steel strap tensioner
- Steel strapping sealer
- Steel strap cutter
- Strapping dispenser/cart
What’s the difference between regular-duty and heavy-duty steel strapping tools?
Regular-duty tools are typically used for lighter strapping gauges and loads, while heavy-duty tools are built for thicker strap, higher tension demands, and tougher/irregular loads. The right choice depends on strap width, thickness, and load type.
What does a steel strap tensioner do?
A steel strap tensioner tightens steel strap around the load. Without proper tension, steel strapping won’t hold the pallet or item securely.
How do I choose the right steel strapping tensioner?
Choose based on:
- Load type (flat vs. irregular)
- Strap width and thickness
Steel strapping tools are sold to specifically match strap size, seal type, and application, so sizing matters.
What strap sizes do Vulcan’s steel strapping tools support?
Tools are available for strap sizes up to 2 inches, and each tool is matched to the strap width, thickness, and sealing method.
What does a steel strapping sealer do?
After tensioning, a steel strapping sealer crimps the seal onto the strap to lock in the tension. You place the seal on the strap, crimp it with the sealer, and the strap stays secured.
Do I need an open seal or closed seal tool?
It depends on the seal type you’re using and your strap specs. Vulcan’s steel strapping sealers are offered for open seal and closed seal applications, and the sealer must match your strap width/thickness.
What is a steel strap cutter used for?
A steel strap cutter cuts off excess strap after the strap is sealed. Vulcan offers single-hand and two-hand cutters depending on strap size and cutting needs.
When should I use a two-hand strap cutter instead of a single-hand cutter?
Two-hand cutters are typically better when you’re working with wider/thicker steel strap and want more leverage. Single-hand cutters are common for smaller strap sizes and quicker cuts.
What is a steel strapping combo tool?
A steel strapping combo tool combines multiple steps into one tool. Vulcan’s steel combo tools can tension the strap, crimp it closed, and cut the excess strap—helpful for speed and consistency.
Are there steel combo tools that don’t require seals?
Yes. Vulcan offers sealless steel combo tools (listed as “no seals”), which can reduce consumables and simplify the process—assuming the tool matches your strap and application.
Why are steel strapping tools sold by strap size?
Because the tool has to correctly handle the strap’s width, thickness, and seal type. Using the wrong size can lead to poor tension, bad crimps, tool wear, or unsafe load security.
What is a steel strapping cart used for?
A steel strapping cart keeps your strap coil and tools together in a portable setup, making it easier to move between work areas and keep strapping organized.
What if I’m not sure which steel strapping tool I need?
Contact Vulcan for help selecting the right tool based on your strap size, seal type, load type, and volume needs—they can provide recommendations plus pricing and availability.
How do I request pricing or place an order with Vulcan Wire?
- Request a Quote: Submit what you need and Vulcan will follow up with price and availability (and recommendations).
- Place an Order: Order by phone, fax, email, or EDI. Call 510-887-2495 or email sales@vulcanwire.com.