You have just acquired a manual PP strapping sealer and will use it to complete the strapping cycle: after tensioning the strap with the tensioner, the sealer deforms the metal seal over the two layers of strapping, leaving the joint sealed and flat. This guide covers the complete procedure to ensure each seal is uniform and withstands transit without failing.
Product Specifications
It is important to be clear about the tool's measurements and compatible consumables before beginning operation. These are the relevant technical data:
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| SKU | 578664 |
| Compatible strap type | Polypropylene (PP) |
| Strap/seal width range | 13 to 16 mm (1/2 to 5/8 in) |
| Jaw material | Heat-treated steel |
| Mechanism | Long handles with multiplied lever |
| Seal type | Metal seal for PP strapping |
| Grip | Non-slip |
| Brand | FORTEMO |
Step-by-step instructions for use
The sealer is the closing tool, not the tensioning tool: it always operates in sequence after the tensioner. The procedure assumes that the PP strap is already tensioned in its final position and the metal seal is placed over the two overlapping layers, ready to be sealed.
Confirm that the strap and seal are in position
Before operating the sealer, verify that the PP strap is tightly tensioned against the bundle and that the metal seal for PP is placed over the two overlapping layers, centered and flat. The sealer does not reposition the seal: it only closes it. If the seal is bent or displaced, reposition it before continuing.
Position the jaws over the seal
Open the sealer handles and center the jaws exactly over the metal seal, perpendicular to the strap. The bite should be symmetrical: if the seal is outside the bite area (partially covered), the seal will close crookedly and will slip in transit. Take a second to align properly before squeezing.
Squeeze the handles with full and even pressure
Close the handles all the way, in a firm and continuous motion. The multiplied lever does most of the work: you just have to close it to the mechanical stop. Do not close it halfway or in two steps: a single, complete compression deforms the seal symmetrically and creates the correct seal.
The sealer is designed for a single complete compression, not for several consecutive closures on the same seal. Closing and reopening the tool on the same spot wears down the teeth of the jaws and weakens the seal due to over-deformation. If the first closure was not uniform, it is better to place a second seal next to the strap (maintaining tension) than to insist on the first one.
Maintain pressure for a moment and release
Hold the closed seal for a couple of seconds to ensure the seal deforms. Then open the handles in a controlled movement, without pulling sideways (a sudden twist when removing the sealer can deform the newly closed seal). Remove the tool cleanly upwards.
Verify the seal and release the tensioner
Inspect the closed seal: it should have deep and symmetrical marks on both layers of strapping, without gaps or lateral deformations. If the seal is good, you can now release the tensioner and cut the excess strapping. If you notice an incomplete seal (visible gaps between the seal and the strap), repeat the sealing with the sealer before releasing the tensioner.
Is your seal properly closed?
If you are unsure what a properly closed seal should look like, or if you have questions about the compatibility of the sealer with your specific seal, ask the virtual assistant. It will confirm the correct combination of strap + seal + sealer for your operation.
Complementary products
The sealer is the closing tool for the manual PP strapping system, but it needs the strapping, metal seals, and tensioner to operate. These are the products for the complete system:
PP strapping is the consumable that will be tensioned and sealed. Metal seals for PP (box of 1,000 units) are the clips that the sealer closes; order seals designed specifically for PP, not for PET. The manual PP strapping tensioner applies tension before closing. If you prefer a system without a metal seal, plastic buckles for strapping are an alternative that does not require a sealer, although they offer a less resistant closure.
Maintenance and care
The sealer concentrates wear at two points: the teeth of the jaws and the central joint. These are the care instructions that keep the tool in professional operating condition:
- After each day, clean the jaws with a dry brush to remove any strap residue, dust, or metal particles; accumulated residue on the teeth distorts the seal over time.
- Every two weeks, apply a drop of multi-purpose oil to the central joint; a couple of full movements without a seal distribute the lubricant through the mechanism.
- Visually inspect the teeth at least once a month: if you notice worn teeth, nicks, or rounded areas, the seals will no longer be symmetrical and the sealer should be replaced.
- Store the tool in a dry place and, if used outdoors in humid conditions, dry it before storing to prevent oxidation in the joint.
Do not use these pliers with PET strap metal seals. PET staples have deeper teeth and a greater thickness, calibrated for a specific bite; applying the PP pliers to a PET staple deforms the jaws and ruins the teeth. To seal PET strapping, use the specific manual polyester pliers.
Frequently asked questions
Can these pliers also be used to close PET strap staples?
We do not recommend it. PET staples are thicker and have different teeth, sized for the strength that polyester can withstand. If you force a PET staple with the PP pliers, it is very likely that the jaws will deform and the tool will lose calibration. Use the manual PET strapping pliers if you work with polyester.
How do I know if the staple is properly closed?
A properly closed staple shows symmetrical bite marks on both strap layers, with no visible gaps between the staple and the strap, and no lateral displacement. If you manually pull the closed strap, there should be no slippage between the layers. If you notice play, re-compress with a new staple next to it.
Can I use the pliers with gloves?
Yes, and it is recommended. The non-slip grip maintains a firm hold with work gloves, preventing slips when the handles become wet with sweat or when working in dusty areas. Use gloves with good tactile feedback to avoid losing sensitivity when aligning the jaws over the staple.