You have just purchased a manual PET strapping tensioner and will be using it on heavy loads: construction, export, or agro-industrial pallets. Polyester requires much higher tensioning forces than polypropylene, and the tool is calibrated for this requirement. This guide covers the complete procedure to apply it correctly and get the most out of its high-ratio lever mechanism.
Product Specifications
Before operating the tensioner, it is advisable to confirm the exact technical data to ensure that the PET strapping you intend to use falls within its working range and that the planned sealing system is compatible.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| SKU | 132577 |
| Compatible strap type | Polyester (PET) |
| Strap width range | 13 to 20 mm (1/2 to 3/4 in) |
| Body material | Stainless steel |
| Mechanism | Manual lever with high force ratio |
| Compatible seal type | Metallic seal for PET (with crimper) |
| Operation | 100% manual, no battery or compressed air |
| Brand | FORTEMO |
Step-by-step Usage
The procedure combines four elements: the PET strap, the tensioner, the sealing system (metallic seal + PET crimper), and the package to be secured. Follow the order: for heavy loads, maintaining tension while closing the seal is what distinguishes a secure pallet from one that fails in transit.
Prepare the strap and wrap the package
Unroll the PET strap from the coil and pass the strap under the pallet or around the load, leaving about 30 cm of excess above the sealing point. The strap should lie flat against the load, without twists or bends, as PET is rigid and creases act as weak points under tension.
Place the metallic PET seal over both ends
Use only metallic seals designed for PET strapping (they usually have deep serrations to prevent slippage under the actual tension of polyester). Slide the seal over the two overlapping strap layers, leaving approximately 5 cm of free strap above the seal so that the tensioner can grip the excess easily.
Insert the strap into the tensioner
Place the tensioner on the top surface of the package, next to the seal, with the stainless steel body firmly seated so that the lever is stable. Insert the free end of the strap into the slot, following the direction marked by the mechanism. Confirm that the strap is well secured between the serrated wheel and the base before starting to tension.
Apply tension with the lever
Move the lever with full strokes, utilizing the entire length of the arm. The high force ratio of the mechanism multiplies your effort: you don't need to apply brute force, but rather firm and controlled movements. Gradually tension until the strap is taut against the load and the lever begins to offer clear and sustained resistance.
Use the full lever stroke, not half. The PET tensioner is designed to multiply force by arm length: short, jerky movements require many more cycles and wear out the mechanism faster. Broad, firm movements apply the correct tension in less time and preserve the tool for more years.
Close the seal without losing tension
While keeping the tensioner firm to maintain the applied tension, position the manual PET strapping crimper over the seal and close it with full pressure on the handles. Only after confirming that the seal is uniformly deformed over both layers, release the tensioner and cut the excess strap.
Do you need PET or will PP suffice?
If you're unsure whether your load requires PET strapping or if PP (more economical) would be enough, ask the virtual assistant. It helps you decide the right material and correct width for the actual weight of your pallet, without waiting.
Complementary Products
The PET tensioner works in a system with three consumables and a sealing tool. These are the products that accompany it in any heavy-duty strapping operation:
PET strapping is the main consumable (16 mm × 1,200 m). Metallic seals for PET have specific serrations to prevent slippage under the actual tension of polyester: do not use smooth seals designed for PP. The manual PET strap crimper closes the seals with adequate pressure. If your strapping volume is very high and you want to replace the three manual tools (tensioner + crimper + seal supply) with a single one, consider upgrading to the battery-powered strapping tool that tensions, seals, and cuts with a single trigger.
Maintenance and Care
The stainless steel body resists humidity and salty Caribbean environments without rusting, allowing it to be used outdoors on construction sites. Even so, it is advisable to maintain a basic routine to preserve the mechanism:
- After each day of work, remove dust and strap residue from the serrated wheel mechanism with a dry brush; dust in the grip is the most common cause of grip loss, even in stainless steel tools.
- Every two weeks (intensive use) or monthly (regular use), apply multi-purpose oil to the lever joint to maintain the fluidity of its full range of motion.
- After exposure to rain or marine environments, dry the tool before storing it. Stainless steel resists, but the internal pins and springs are made of carbon steel and can rust.
- Visually inspect the wheel teeth at least once a month: if you notice irregular wear, the force exerted on the strap loses accuracy and the tool should be replaced.
Do not use this tensioner with PP (polypropylene) strapping. Although it mechanically fits, the high leverage ratio of the PET lever exceeds the elastic limit of polypropylene and breaks it during tensioning, suddenly releasing the load (with the consequent risk to the operator). To strap PP, use the specific manual polypropylene tensioner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this tensioner also work with PP strapping?
We do not recommend it. The force it applies is calibrated for PET, which withstands much higher tension than PP. If used on PP, it will most likely break the strapping when tensioning and release the load suddenly. To strap PP, use the manual polypropylene tensioner, which is calibrated for that specific force.
Do I need gloves to operate it?
Yes, we always recommend it. PET strapping under tension has sharp edges, and if the tool slips or the operator loses grip, the strapping can cause serious cuts. Use work gloves with good grip, especially in outdoor or humid operations.
Can I use it with any metal seal?
No: use metal seals specifically designed for PET strapping (deep-toothed). Smooth seals designed for PP will slip under the tension of polyester and the joint will fail in transit. The complete system (PET strapping + PET seal + PET crimper) is designed to work as a set.