PET or PP – which strapping suits your packages? Both plastics are used to strap cartons, bundles and pallets, but they differ in strength, coil size and handling. This comparison sets four straps from our strapping bands category side by side and shows when PET and when PP is the more sensible choice.
The differences at a glance
The values come from our product data. We compare two PET and two PP straps, because straps of the same material also differ depending on their size.
| Criterion | PET strapping | PP strapping |
|---|---|---|
| Examples | 12 × 0.70 mm and 15.5 × 0.70 mm | 12 × 0.55 mm and 12 × 0.63 mm |
| Maximum breaking strength | 260 to 380 kg/daN | 133 to 160 kg/daN |
| Nominal elongation | 15-22 % or 14-18 % | 15-22 % |
| Colour | green | black |
| Core | 406 mm | 200 mm (12 × 0.63 mm), not stated for 12 × 0.55 mm |
| Length per coil | 1,750 to 2,300 m | 3,000 m |
| Coil weight | 21 to 22 kg | 10 to 12 kg |
| Packing | 48 coils per pallet | 60 coils per pallet |
All four straps are waffled and, according to the data sheet, made to the quality standards of DIN EN ISO 9001. We give the unit of breaking strength exactly as it appears in the product data. The relevant product page always applies.
Strength: where PET comes into its own
The clearest difference lies in breaking strength. According to the data sheet, the 12 × 0.70 mm PET strap reaches 260, while the 12 × 0.63 mm PP strap of almost the same size reaches 160. The wider 15.5 × 0.70 mm PET strap comes to 380.
If you strap heavy or solid packages, PET therefore gives you more reserve. For light cartons or small bundles this reserve is often not needed, and PP can then be the right choice.
Keep in mind that breaking strength is a maximum value for the strap itself. How much of it reaches the package also depends on the seal, the tension and the edges. Sharp edges can weaken a strap, so edge protectors are worthwhile at such points. Plan the strength with a reserve rather than close to the maximum value.
Elongation: hardly any difference in the data
For nominal elongation, our product data show less of a gap than you might expect. Three of the four straps are given as 15-22 %, the 15.5 × 0.70 mm PET strap as 14-18 %.
For your choice, this means you should always compare elongation on the specific strap rather than assuming it from the material. A strap with some elongation can adapt to a package that settles slightly in transit. A test run is the most reliable way to see how the strap behaves on your package.
Handling: coil, core and weight
In daily work, the coils stand out. The PP straps fit 3,000 m onto a coil weighing 10 to 12 kg, and the 12 × 0.63 mm strap has a 200 mm core. The PET straps have a 406 mm core and weigh 21 to 22 kg per coil, with a length of 1,750 to 2,300 m.
- PP: lighter coils with more metres, smaller core.
- PET: heavier coils, larger core, higher strength.
- Both: waffled surface for a firm hold during transport and storage.
Before switching, check whether your dispenser, tensioning tool and seals suit the new strap. A different core diameter or strap size may call for different equipment.
Storing the coils is also part of the planning. The heavier PET coils and the larger pallet units of the PP straps need a fixed place near the packing station so that coils can be changed without long walks. If you change coils often, the lighter PP coils help, while PET tends to suit operations that change less often and need high strength.
Which strap for which task?
Shipping cartons and light bundles
When cartons are bundled or closed in dispatch, the strength values of a PP strap are often sufficient. The light coils with a long running length make changes at the packing table easier. A typical example is the 12 × 0.63 mm PP strap.
Heavy load units in the warehouse
For heavy load units that travel longer distances, the higher breaking strength speaks in favour of PET. The 15.5 × 0.70 mm PET strap has the highest value in this selection. A test run on a real load unit is the best way to see how much reserve makes sense.
Frequently asked questions
Is PET always the better choice?
No. In our data, PET offers more strength, while PP offers lighter coils with more metres. What matters is the strength your package needs and the equipment you have.
Can I use PET and PP with the same tool?
That depends on the tool. Check the tool manufacturer's information to see which straps and strap sizes it can handle.
Does PP stretch more than PET?
Hardly, according to our product data: three of the four straps are listed at 15-22 %, the 15.5 × 0.70 mm PET strap at 14-18 %. Compare the figure for the specific strap.
Browse the range
You can find the compared straps directly in our shop:
- PET strapping, 12×0.7 mm, green, embossed, 2300m
- PET strapping, 15.5×0.7mm, green, embossed, 1750m
- PP strapping, 12×0.55mm, black, embossed, 3000m
- PP strapping, 12×0.63mm, black, embossed, 3000m
All other straps are shown in the strapping bands category. We are happy to advise you on +49 2237 628095-00, Monday to Friday from 9 am to 5 pm.