How to pick the best strapping machine for your specific needs? Here are two questions to consider when picking the machine for your company: How automated do you want to be, and how fast do you want to strap? There are three main types of machines.
Semi-Automatic, also know as table top machines, are about the size of a small table. The operator wraps strap around the package, and the machine automatically tightens strap. Arch Strapping machines are more automated, but still require an operator to position the package and press an activation button (or foot switch) to start the strapping operation. With an arch machine, the strap travels around an “arch” creating a loop before activation. When the operator activates the strapping sequence, the strap tensions, heat seals, and pre-feeds the strap for the next cycle. Many arch machines can also be activated by a photocell or limit switch built into the top.
While these devices will automatically activate the cycle, the operator will still position the package for strapping and remove it when the cycle is completed. Arch size is critical with an arch machine, since package size is limited to what will fit under the arch. Arch machines are much faster than semi automatic machines, less operator dependent, and, of course, more expensive.
Fully Automatic machines are similar to arch machines. Fully automatic strappers have built in conveyor systems to carry your product through the strapping machinery, and are activated by an automated device, usually a photocell. Fully automatic machines do not require an operator. As with arch machines, they must be sized properly. The additional features on a fully automatic machine will drive the cost up, but saves on time and labor costs.
How Fast do you want to strap? There are three speeds: Semi 10-15 Straps per minute, Arch 30-70 Straps per minute and Automatic 40-80 per minute. The speed of the strapping should be picked based on the packaging volume. Smaller shipping and packaging operations can utilize semi-automatic or arch strapping machines successfully with a lower speed, while high-volume operations will thrive with the addition of a high-speed automatic strapping machine.
All used strapping machines from American Surplus are tested and inspected prior to shipping to ensure that only the best quality used equipment leaves our warehouse. Contact a member of our sales team to learn more about our current inventory of used strapping machines, as well as our full inventory of used packaging equipment.
