Steel strapping is often used to reinforce boxes and crates containing heavy objects, and for keeping sheet metal rolls from unwinding during transport. After these items have arrived at their final destination, the banding must be removed before the materials may be used.When you are securing your products in place, a simple pair of house scissors isn't going to do the trick. Then, when it's time to unpack, the metal straps used in banding the boxes or rolls can be dangerous if not removed properly.ISO's Band Cutter T550Using Band Cutters for Steel Band RemovalBand cutters are used to remove the steel strapping used in securing goods. The cuts must be made squarely if you wish to avoid pointed, sharp ends that can be dangerous. Using the incorrect tool to remove steel banding can result in increased chances for injury.Safety Tips for Unpacking:Always Use Safety GlassesWear Well Made Gloves While WorkingCheck to See What's Inside the BoxCut CarefullyWhen you use band cutters to remove steel strapping, cut the strap farthest away from you first. The band may spring back when cut, so stay out of danger's way after you make the cut. Be sure that the straps are not left on the ground or around the box, which would cause a trip hazard for other employees. Take them all and place them in a sturdy scrap container.Additional Uses for Band CuttersBand cutters are sometimes called banding tools, and they are also used for the installation, banding and crimping of metal strapping. They can be utilized for other applications as well, including pole and sign mounting, and for municipal and telecommunications work.Heavy duty band cutters are used for the widest and thickest of bands, and they often feature a lower handle that is 22 inches long and stationary, which gives you a great deal of coverage. Even though the amount of band cutter information online is limited, there are actually many types of steel bands, and many businesses that use them for differing purposes. Band cutters can be quite versatile, and some will work better for specific applications.Band Cutter ConstructionNeedless to say, band cutters are made with heavy-duty materials, suitable for the job they do. They may cut steel as well as plastic strapping. Ergonomic handles offer compound leverage for ease of cutting. The blades should give you smooth, easy, clean cuts.Tips for UseIf you are engaged in heavy cutting, some band cutters can be used with one handle on the ground, under your foot. This will allow more force to be applied, and it allows you to use your body weight to transfer more power to the cutter.Always use the proper cutting tool for the hardness, size and type of metal you are cutting.Do not pry or twist with the tool while you are cutting. Keep the jaws at a right angle to the piece you are cutting. If you cut diagonally, the jaws may become twisted.Do not exceed a full cut on any material whose hardness you do not know. Test for the hardness with steady, slow pressure until you can see that the material is being cut properly.Keep the jaw bolts tight and the joints oiled on all band cutters. Never exceed the capacity of the cutter. This should be marked on the tool's jaw.The information online about using banding tools is quite limited, so ISO has assembled how-to videos regarding the proper use of banding tools, including ratchet tensioners and band cutters.
