User guide | Manual plier for PP strapping
This guide covers sealing with a manual tensioner-tool for PP strapping: checking the position of the strapping and seal, aligning the jaws, applying full and even pressure on the handles, holding the crimp, and final verification. Follow these steps so that every seal closes the strapping cycle and withstands the tension without opening during transport.
Product specifications
It is worth being clear about the tool's dimensions and the compatible consumables before starting to operate. These are the relevant technical details:
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| SKU | 578664 |
| Compatible strapping type | Polypropylene (PP) |
| Strapping/seal width range | 13 to 16 mm (1/2 to 5/8 in) |
| Jaw material | Heat-treated steel |
| Mechanism | Long handles with compound leverage |
| Closure type | Metal seal (clip) for PP strapping |
| Grip | Non-slip |
| Brand | FORTEMO |
Step-by-step on how to use it
The tensioner-tool is the closing tool, not the tensioning tool: always operate it in sequence after the tensioner. The procedure assumes that the PP strapping is already tensioned in its final position and the metal seal is placed over the two layers, ready to seal.
Confirm that the strapping and seal are in position
Before acting with the tensioner-tool, check that the PP strapping is properly tensioned against the package and that the metal seal for PP is placed over the two overlapping layers, centered and flat. The tensioner-tool does not reposition the seal: it only closes it. If the seal is crooked or displaced, reposition it before continuing.
Position the jaws over the seal
Open the handles of the tensioner-tool and center the jaws exactly over the metal seal, perpendicular to the strapping. The bite must be symmetrical: if the seal ends up outside the bite area (partially covered), the seal will close crooked and slip in transit. Take a second to align it properly before squeezing.
Squeeze the handles with full and even pressure
Close the handles all the way, in a firm and continuous motion. The compound leverage does almost all the work: you only have to close to the mechanical stop. Do not do the crimp halfway or in two stages: a single full compression deforms the seal symmetrically and creates the correct crimp.
The tensioner-tool is designed for a single full compression, not for several closures in a row on the same seal. Closing and reopening the tool over the same spot wears down the teeth of the jaws and weakens the seal through over-deformation. If the first closure was not even, it is better to place a second seal next to the strapping (maintaining the tension) than to insist on the first one.
Hold the pressure for a moment and release
Hold the crimp closed for a couple of seconds to ensure the deformation of the seal. Then open the handles in a controlled motion, without pulling sideways (an abrupt twist when removing the tensioner-tool can deform the seal you just closed). Remove the tool cleanly upward.
Check the seal and release the tensioner
Inspect the closed seal: it must have deep and symmetrical marks on the two layers of strapping, with no gaps or lateral deformations. If the seal turned out well, you can now release the tensioner and cut the excess strapping. If you notice an incomplete closure (visible gaps between the seal and the strapping), repeat the closure with the tensioner-tool before releasing the tensioner.
Complementary products
The tensioner-tool is the closing tool of the manual PP strapping system, but it needs the strapping, the metal seals, and the tensioner to operate. These are the products of the complete system:
The PP strapping is the consumable that you will tension and seal. The metal seals for PP (box of 1,000 units) are the clips that the tensioner-tool closes; order seals designed specifically for PP, not for PET. The manual tensioner for PP strapping applies the tension prior to closing. If you prefer a system without a metal seal, the plastic buckles for strapping are an alternative that does not require a tensioner-tool, although they offer a less resistant closure.
Maintenance and care
The tensioner-tool concentrates wear at two points: the teeth of the jaws and the central joint. These are the care steps that keep the tool in professional operating condition:
- After each shift, clean the jaws with a dry brush to remove strapping debris, dust, or metal particles; the residue accumulated in the teeth distorts the closure 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 closures will no longer be symmetrical and it is advisable to replace the tensioner-tool.
- Store the tool in a dry place and, if you use it outdoors in humid conditions, dry it before storing to avoid rust on the joint.
Do not use this tensioner-tool with metal seals for PET strapping. PET clips have deeper teeth and greater thickness, calibrated for a specific bite; applying the PP tensioner-tool over a PET clip deforms the jaws and ruins the teeth. To seal PET strapping, use the specific manual polyester tensioner-tool.
Frequently asked questions
Does the tensioner-tool also work for closing PET strapping clips?
We do not recommend it. PET clips are thicker and have different teeth, sized for the force that polyester withstands. If you force a PET clip with the PP tensioner-tool, the jaws will most likely deform and the tool will lose calibration. Use the manual tensioner-tool for PET strapping if you work with polyester.
How do I know if the seal closed properly?
A properly closed seal shows symmetrical bite marks on the two layers of strapping, with no visible gaps between the seal and the strapping, and no lateral displacement. If you pull the closed strapping by hand, there should be no slippage between the layers. If you notice play, recompress with a new seal next to it.
Can I use the tensioner-tool with gloves?
Yes, and it is recommended. The non-slip grip keeps a firm hold with work gloves, which prevents slips when the handles get damp with sweat or you work in dusty areas. Use gloves with good touch sensitivity so you do not lose feel when aligning the jaws over the seal.