Frequently Asked Questions
STRAPPING TOOLS


GENERAL

Where are they made ?
Can I get them repaired ?
Can I get replacement parts ?
Where can I get parts diagrams ?

SELECTION

How do I choose between Economy, Regular, & HD ?
What's the difference between "front" and "side" action ?
How do I choose between "single" and "double" notch ?
How do I choose between "Up cut" and "Down cut" ?
Why would I need a "Pusher type" ?
Why would I need a "Windlass type" ?
What's the advantage of a Combination tool ?

 

ANSWERS
Where are they made ?

The MIP line of strapping tools is made in the United States of America.

Can I get them repaired ?
Most of our Distributors that sell these tools, have either their own Service Departments, or a procedure in place for ensuring that these tools get repaired.
Can I get replacement parts ?
Yes, we stock some of the more common wear parts, and the rest are available within two weeks.
Where can I get parts diagrams ?
Please contact us with the tool's model number, and strap size, and we will send you a parts diagram.
How do I choose between Economy, Regular, & HD ?
Mostly this depends on your environment.  For occasional use in a clean environment, you would be ok with an economy grade tool.  If you have ten different employees using the tool outdoors, or in a rough environment, you would be better off with a heavy duty grade.  heavy duty tools generally handle more, and heavier strap sizes .
What's the difference between "front" and "side" action ?
A "front action" sealer (the most common) is positioned directly above and inline with the strap .  The "side action" sealer is positioned to the side, and perpendicular to the strap , and is better suited for heavier strap, where you can take advantage of the tool's leverage.
How do I choose between "single" and "double" notch ?
Double notch is the most common, and makes two notches in the seal.  A single notch tool is only required where you are strapping tight round bundles, and you need to be able to get the tool out from behind the seal after it is notched. Usually with a single notch tool, you go back and add another notch to the seal, to get the strength.
How do I choose between "Up cut" and "Down cut" ?
Down cut is the most common , and the seal notches are pushed down towards the bundle.  Up cut is not very common.  It forces the notches upwards, and away from the bundle, in order to protect the surface, and keep the strap flat on the bundle.
Why would I need a "Pusher type" ?
The pusher type tensioners use a closed seal, and are used for tensioning strap on round or irregular bundles.
Why would I need a "Windlass type" ?

The windlass tool provides the highest amount of tension.  It is most commonly used for larger strapping applications like bundling loads onto boxcars.

What's the advantage of a Combination tool ?

The combination tool combines all of the strapping functions into one series of motions.  It tensions, seals, and cuts the strap all with just the one tool.  This design provides a few advantages:

  • No need to carry three different tools (tensioner, sealer, cutter) around
  • No need for seals - Dies in the head perforate the straps, and form a strong, reliable seal
  • Tool can be adjusted to accommodate a variety of strap widths and thickness.
  • Significantly faster operation time.

 

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