Banding machines, also known as strapping machines, are revolutionising how businesses, across all industries, are packaging their goods.Â
In this blog, we will delve into how banding machines work and provide some top tips, so you can make sure your banding machine performs at its optimum level.
But don’t sweat, our expert team is always on hand to offer advice on the best banding machines for your business, so don’t hesitate to contact us.
How banding machines work
Banding machines securely bundle or straps items together, by applying tension to the band or strap.Â
Although semi-automatic, automatic and fully automated banding machines will differ in how much manual intervention is required, as a general rule they work following the same process:
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The items to be secured together are placed onto a conveyor or platform near the machine. Taking care to lift items safely, without causing harm to yourself or damage to the goods.
Before starting the process, make sure the machine is capable of accommodating the weight and dimensions of the items to be secured.
Band Feeding
The machine will feed the strap or band material from a roll or coil, positioning it for the bundling process.Â
For the best results, it’s important to use the right banding material and size for your machine and goods.
Tensioning
The machine applies tension to the strap or band, pulling it tightly around the items being bundled.Â
It’s essential to adjust the tension according to the flexibility and strength of the band, to ensure a secure and tight bundle without damaging the packaged items, or overstretching or tearing the band material.Â
Sealing
Once the strap or band is tensioned, the machine seals the ends of the band together to form a closed loop. For plastic banding, heat sealing or friction welding is commonly used, while steel bands may require manual or automatic sealing with metal seals.
Regularly inspect the seals to ensure they are secure, to prevent the band from loosening during handling or transportation and damaging your goods.
Cutting
After sealing, the excess band or strap material is cut off, usually by a cutting mechanism integrated into the machine.Â
Carry out quality control checks, to make sure the band is cut precisely for a professional finish and to minimise waste and added costs.
Ejection or Discharge
The bundled items are then ejected or discharged from the machine, ready for further processing or packaging.
To avoid any disruption to your production line and damage to the packaged items, make sure the bundled items are smoothly and efficiently released from the machine.
Gordian Strapping’s extensive range of banding machines
At Gordian Strapping we have an extensive range of semi-automatic, automatic and fully automated banding machines.Â
As well as a large range of paper and polypropylene film banding and with 75 years of experience, we know precisely which machines and banding will best suit your needs.Â
Bespoke Banding Machines
At Gordian Strapping we are proud to offer bespoke customised modifications. If you need a machine bespoke tailored to your needs, our in-house engineers can carry out customised modifications, to deliver the best results.
