Usage Guide | Manual tensioner for PET strapping
This guide covers the operation of the manual tensioner for PET strapping: preparing the strapping, placing the metal seal over the two ends, inserting it into the tensioner, applying tension with the lever and closing the seal without losing tension. Follow these steps to strap heavy loads (construction, export or agro-industry pallets) with the proper tension so the strapping holds without giving way.
Product specifications
Before operating the tensioner, it is worth establishing the exact technical data to confirm that the PET strapping you are going to use falls within its working range and that the closure system you have planned is compatible.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| SKU | 132577 |
| Compatible strapping type | Polyester (PET) |
| Strapping width range | 13 to 20 mm (1/2 to 3/4 in) |
| Body material | Stainless steel |
| Mechanism | High force-ratio manual lever |
| Compatible closure type | Metal seal for PET (with crimping tool) |
| Operation | 100% manual, no battery or compressed air |
| Brand | FORTEMO |
Step-by-step on how to use it
The procedure combines four elements: the PET strapping, the tensioner, the closure system (metal seal + crimping tool for PET) and the package to be secured. Follow the order: on heavy loads, keeping the tension while the seal is closed is what distinguishes a safe pallet from one that fails in transit.
Prepare the strapping and wrap the package
Unroll the PET strapping from the coil and pass the strapping under the pallet or around the load, leaving about 30 cm of excess above the closure point. The strapping should sit flat against the load, without twists or folds, since PET is rigid and creases act as weak points under tension.
Place the metal seal for PET over the two ends
Use exclusively metal seals designed for PET strapping (they usually have deep serration to prevent slippage under the real tension of polyester). Slide the seal over the two overlapping layers of strapping, leaving approximately 5 cm of free strapping above the seal so the tensioner can grip the excess with room to spare.
Insert the strapping into the tensioner
Rest the tensioner on the top face of the package, next to the seal, with the stainless steel body firmly seated so the lever stays steady. Insert the free end of the strapping into the slot following the direction marked by the mechanism. Confirm that the strapping is firmly held between the toothed wheel and the base before starting to tension.
Apply tension with the lever
Move the lever with full strokes, taking advantage of the entire length of the arm. The high force ratio of the mechanism multiplies your effort: you do not need to apply brute force, but rather firm and controlled movements. Tension progressively until the strapping is taut against the load and the lever begins to offer clear and sustained resistance.
Use the full lever, not half a stroke. The PET tensioner is designed to multiply force by the length of the arm: short lever strokes require many more cycles and wear out the mechanism sooner. Wide, firm movements apply the correct tension in less time and keep the tool working for more years.
Close the seal without losing tension
Keeping the tensioner firm to preserve the applied tension, position the manual crimping tool for PET strapping over the seal and close with full pressure of the handles. Only after checking that the seal has been deformed uniformly over the two layers, release the tensioner and cut off the excess strapping.
Complementary products
The PET tensioner works as a system with three consumables and one closure tool. These are the products that accompany it in any heavy strapping operation:
PET strapping is the main consumable (16 mm × 1,200 m). Metal seals for PET have specific serration to prevent slippage under the real tension of polyester: do not use smooth seals intended for PP. The manual crimping tool for PET strapping closes the seals with the proper pressure. If your strapping volume is very high and you want to eliminate the three manual tools (tensioner + crimping tool + seal supply) for a single one, consider upgrading to the battery-powered strapping tool that tensions, seals and cuts in a single trigger.
Maintenance and care
The stainless steel body resists humidity and the saline environments of the Caribbean without rusting, which allows it to be used outdoors on site. Even so, it is worth keeping a basic routine to preserve the mechanism:
- After each working day, remove dust and strapping debris from the toothed wheel mechanism with a dry brush; dust in the grip is the most common cause of loss of grip, even in stainless tools.
- Every two weeks (intensive use) or every month (regular use), apply multi-purpose oil to the lever joint to maintain the smoothness of the full stroke.
- After exposure to rain or a marine environment, dry the tool before storing it. Stainless steel resists, but the internal pins and springs are carbon steel and can indeed rust.
- Visually inspect the teeth of the wheel at least once a month: if you notice irregular wear, the force exerted on the strapping loses precision and the tool should be replaced.
Do not use this tensioner with PP (polypropylene) strapping. Although it fits mechanically, the high force ratio of the PET lever exceeds the elastic limit of polypropylene and breaks it at full tension, releasing the load suddenly (with the consequent risk to the operator). To strap PP, use the specific manual tensioner for polypropylene.
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 you use it on PP, it will most likely break the strapping when tensioning and release the load suddenly. To strap PP, use the polypropylene manual 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 damp operations.
Can I use it with any metal seal?
No: use metal seals designed specifically for PET strapping (deep serration). Smooth seals intended for PP slip under the tension of polyester and the joint gives way in transit. The complete system (PET strapping + PET seal + PET crimping tool) is designed to work as a set.