Standard Specification for Strapping, Flat Steel and Seals

ABSTRACT
This specification covers flat steel strapping and seals intended for use in closing, reinforcing, bundling articles for shipment, unitizing, palletizing, and bracing for carloading, truckloading, lifting, and lashing. This specification does not include specialty-type strapping as developed for special applications or strapping produced from alloy metals. Strapping shall be of the following types: Type 1 and Type II; shall be of the following finish: Finish A, Finish B including Grade 1, Grade 2, and Grade 3, Finish C and Finish D; and shall have the prescribed widths and thicknesses in accordance with the specified sizes. Seals shall be of the following classes: Class R and Class H; finishes: Finish A, Finish B including Grade 1, Grade 2, and Grade 3, Finish C, and Finish D; and styles: Style I, Style II, Style III, Style IV, and Style V. Materials shall be cold-rolled carbon steel of the prescribed quality. Strapping and seal shall conform to the physical and mechanical property requirements prescribed for: (1) breaking strength, elongation and seal joint strength, (2) lubrication (by lubricity and edge tests), (3) weld efficiency, (4) seal width, (5) seal application, (6) notch, crimp, and sealless joints, (7) galvanized strapping (by weight loss test), (8) ductility of strapping coating, (9) base metal ductility (by bending test), and (10) straightness (camber, coil set, and spiral twist). The coil configuration are specified and illustrated. Sampling and packaging requirements such as wrapping and packing are also detailed.
SCOPE
1.1 This specification covers flat steel strapping and seals intended for use in closing, reinforcing, bundling articles for shipment, unitizing, palletizing, and bracing for carloading, truckloading, lifting, and lashing.  
1.2 This specification includes strapping and seals made from carbon steel and applies only to the types and sizes as cataloged by strapping suppliers to be a standard, commercially available product. It does not include “specialty”-type strapping as developed for special applications or strapping produced from alloy metals.  
1.3 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard.  
1.4 Performance characteristics may be negatively affected by extremes of temperatures, such as occur during the annealing of steel.  
1.5 The following safety hazards caveat applies only to the test method portion, Sections 11, 12, and 13, of this specification:  
This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

General Information

Status
Published
Publication Date
30-Sep-2022
Technical Committee
D10 - Packaging

Relations

Effective Date
01-Mar-2024
Effective Date
01-Oct-2023
Effective Date
01-Nov-2018
Effective Date
01-May-2018
Effective Date
01-Sep-2016
Effective Date
01-Dec-2015
Effective Date
01-Nov-2015
Effective Date
01-May-2014
Effective Date
01-May-2014
Effective Date
01-Apr-2014
Effective Date
01-Oct-2013
Effective Date
01-May-2013
Effective Date
01-May-2013
Effective Date
15-Mar-2013
Effective Date
01-Nov-2011

Overview

ASTM D3953-15(2022) - Standard Specification for Strapping, Flat Steel and Seals defines requirements for flat steel strapping and corresponding seals used for closing, reinforcing, bundling, unitizing, palletizing, and bracing goods for shipment and transport. Developed by ASTM International and approved by the U.S. Department of Defense, this specification standardizes commercially available flat steel strapping and seal products made from cold-rolled carbon steel, ensuring consistency, safety, and reliability in packaging and transport applications. Specialty strapping and straps produced from alloy metals are not covered by this standard.

Key Topics

  • Materials Covered: Focuses on cold-rolled carbon steel strapping and steel seals, excluding specialty and alloy-metal products.
  • Types & Finishes: Strapping is defined as Type 1 (flat strapping for machine and hand application, including regular, high-strength, and heavy-duty uses) and Type 2 (nail-on strapping). Finishes include painted (Finish A), galvanized (Finish B, in three grades), metallic-filled (Finish C), and uncoated (Finish D).
  • Seal Classifications: Seals are categorized by duty class (regular - R and heavy - H), finish (A, B, C, D), and style (I-V) - each designed for specific application and tool compatibility.
  • Dimensional and Mechanical Requirements: Prescribes widths, thicknesses, and minimum breaking strengths for each type and size. Includes joint strength (notched, crimped, sealless), weld efficiency, straightness, coil set, and spiral twist tolerances.
  • Physical & Mechanical Testing: Requirements for breaking strength, elongation, seal joint strength, lubrication, weld efficiency, ductility (coating and base metal), and corrosion resistance are included, with referenced ASTM test methods for each.
  • Packaging and Identification: Specifies coil configurations (oscillated, ribbon, jumbo), size tolerances, required coil markings, and packaging methods for shipping and handling.

Applications

Adopting ASTM D3953-15(2022) ensures secure, standardized, and efficient packaging for a wide range of shipping and logistics operations, including:

  • Freight Transport: Strapping majorly used for carloading, truckloading, and rail transport to brace and unitize heavy or bulky goods.
  • Palletizing and Unitizing: Bundling multiple articles together for safer handling, optimized storage, and improved load stability during warehouse and transit.
  • Reinforcement & Security: Flat steel strapping plays a critical role in reinforcing containers, boxes, and crates, and serves as a primary means to prevent load shifting.
  • Lifting and Lashing: High-strength and extra heavy-duty strap types facilitate lifting or lashing applications in industrial settings.
  • General Industrial Packaging: Suitable for manufacturers, distribution centers, and logistics service providers seeking compliance with internationally recognized safety and quality standards.

By detailing required mechanical properties, finishes, and physical dimensions, this ASTM standard helps users select the correct strapping and seal products for intended loads, tools, and environmental conditions-enhancing operational safety, cargo security, and regulatory compliance.

Related Standards

To ensure broad compatibility and compliance throughout the supply and packaging chain, ASTM D3953-15(2022) references or aligns with several related standards, including:

  • ASTM A109/A109M - Steel strip, carbon, cold-rolled
  • ASTM D3951 - Practice for commercial packaging
  • ASTM D4675 - Guide for selection and use of flat strapping materials
  • ASTM A90/A90M - Test method for weight (mass) of coating on iron and steel articles
  • ASTM D996 - Terminology of packaging and distribution environments
  • AAR Open Top Loading Rules Manual - For rail transport packaging requirements
  • MIL-STD-105 - Sampling procedures for inspection by attributes

Organizations involved in shipping, packaging, and logistics benefit from referencing this ASTM standard for consistency, reliability, and seamless integration with supply chain practices worldwide.

Keywords: ASTM D3953, flat steel strapping, steel seals, packaging, bundling, palletizing, shipping standards, ASTM packaging standards, industrial strapping specification, steel banding, freight transport, logistics packaging standards.

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Frequently Asked Questions

ASTM D3953-15(2022) is a technical specification published by ASTM International. Its full title is "Standard Specification for Strapping, Flat Steel and Seals". This standard covers: ABSTRACT This specification covers flat steel strapping and seals intended for use in closing, reinforcing, bundling articles for shipment, unitizing, palletizing, and bracing for carloading, truckloading, lifting, and lashing. This specification does not include specialty-type strapping as developed for special applications or strapping produced from alloy metals. Strapping shall be of the following types: Type 1 and Type II; shall be of the following finish: Finish A, Finish B including Grade 1, Grade 2, and Grade 3, Finish C and Finish D; and shall have the prescribed widths and thicknesses in accordance with the specified sizes. Seals shall be of the following classes: Class R and Class H; finishes: Finish A, Finish B including Grade 1, Grade 2, and Grade 3, Finish C, and Finish D; and styles: Style I, Style II, Style III, Style IV, and Style V. Materials shall be cold-rolled carbon steel of the prescribed quality. Strapping and seal shall conform to the physical and mechanical property requirements prescribed for: (1) breaking strength, elongation and seal joint strength, (2) lubrication (by lubricity and edge tests), (3) weld efficiency, (4) seal width, (5) seal application, (6) notch, crimp, and sealless joints, (7) galvanized strapping (by weight loss test), (8) ductility of strapping coating, (9) base metal ductility (by bending test), and (10) straightness (camber, coil set, and spiral twist). The coil configuration are specified and illustrated. Sampling and packaging requirements such as wrapping and packing are also detailed. SCOPE 1.1 This specification covers flat steel strapping and seals intended for use in closing, reinforcing, bundling articles for shipment, unitizing, palletizing, and bracing for carloading, truckloading, lifting, and lashing. 1.2 This specification includes strapping and seals made from carbon steel and applies only to the types and sizes as cataloged by strapping suppliers to be a standard, commercially available product. It does not include “specialty”-type strapping as developed for special applications or strapping produced from alloy metals. 1.3 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. 1.4 Performance characteristics may be negatively affected by extremes of temperatures, such as occur during the annealing of steel. 1.5 The following safety hazards caveat applies only to the test method portion, Sections 11, 12, and 13, of this specification: This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. 1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

ABSTRACT This specification covers flat steel strapping and seals intended for use in closing, reinforcing, bundling articles for shipment, unitizing, palletizing, and bracing for carloading, truckloading, lifting, and lashing. This specification does not include specialty-type strapping as developed for special applications or strapping produced from alloy metals. Strapping shall be of the following types: Type 1 and Type II; shall be of the following finish: Finish A, Finish B including Grade 1, Grade 2, and Grade 3, Finish C and Finish D; and shall have the prescribed widths and thicknesses in accordance with the specified sizes. Seals shall be of the following classes: Class R and Class H; finishes: Finish A, Finish B including Grade 1, Grade 2, and Grade 3, Finish C, and Finish D; and styles: Style I, Style II, Style III, Style IV, and Style V. Materials shall be cold-rolled carbon steel of the prescribed quality. Strapping and seal shall conform to the physical and mechanical property requirements prescribed for: (1) breaking strength, elongation and seal joint strength, (2) lubrication (by lubricity and edge tests), (3) weld efficiency, (4) seal width, (5) seal application, (6) notch, crimp, and sealless joints, (7) galvanized strapping (by weight loss test), (8) ductility of strapping coating, (9) base metal ductility (by bending test), and (10) straightness (camber, coil set, and spiral twist). The coil configuration are specified and illustrated. Sampling and packaging requirements such as wrapping and packing are also detailed. SCOPE 1.1 This specification covers flat steel strapping and seals intended for use in closing, reinforcing, bundling articles for shipment, unitizing, palletizing, and bracing for carloading, truckloading, lifting, and lashing. 1.2 This specification includes strapping and seals made from carbon steel and applies only to the types and sizes as cataloged by strapping suppliers to be a standard, commercially available product. It does not include “specialty”-type strapping as developed for special applications or strapping produced from alloy metals. 1.3 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. 1.4 Performance characteristics may be negatively affected by extremes of temperatures, such as occur during the annealing of steel. 1.5 The following safety hazards caveat applies only to the test method portion, Sections 11, 12, and 13, of this specification: This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. 1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

ASTM D3953-15(2022) is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 55.040 - Packaging materials and accessories. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.

ASTM D3953-15(2022) has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to ASTM A109/A109M-24, ASTM D3951-18(2023), ASTM A109/A109M-16(2018), ASTM D3951-18, ASTM A109/A109M-16, ASTM D3951-15, ASTM A109/A109M-15, ASTM E177-14, ASTM A109/A109M-14, ASTM D4675-14, ASTM A109/A109M-13, ASTM E177-13, ASTM E691-13, ASTM D4332-13, ASTM D6039/D6039M-11. Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.

ASTM D3953-15(2022) is available in PDF format for immediate download after purchase. The document can be added to your cart and obtained through the secure checkout process. Digital delivery ensures instant access to the complete standard document.

Standards Content (Sample)


This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation:D3953 −15 (Reapproved 2022)
Standard Specification for
Strapping, Flat Steel and Seals
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D3953; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision.Anumber in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval.A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.
1. Scope 2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
1.1 This specification covers flat steel strapping and seals
A90/A90MTest Method for Weight [Mass] of Coating on
intended for use in closing, reinforcing, bundling articles for
Iron and Steel Articles with Zinc or Zinc-Alloy Coatings
shipment, unitizing, palletizing, and bracing for carloading,
A109/A109MSpecification for Steel, Strip, Carbon (0.25
truckloading, lifting, and lashing.
Maximum Percent), Cold-Rolled
1.2 This specification includes strapping and seals made
A239Practice for Locating the Thinnest Spot in a Zinc
from carbon steel and applies only to the types and sizes as
(Galvanized) Coating on Iron or Steel Articles
cataloged by strapping suppliers to be a standard, commer-
B504Test Method for Measurement of Thickness of Metal-
cially available product. It does not include “specialty”-type
lic Coatings by the Coulometric Method
strapping as developed for special applications or strapping
D996Terminology of Packaging and Distribution Environ-
produced from alloy metals.
ments
D3951Practice for Commercial Packaging
1.3 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded
D4332Practice for Conditioning Containers, Packages, or
as standard.
Packaging Components for Testing
D4675Guide for Selection and Use of Flat Strapping Ma-
1.4 Performance characteristics may be negatively affected
terials
by extremes of temperatures, such as occur during the anneal-
D6039/D6039MSpecification for Open and Covered Wood
ing of steel.
Crates
1.5 The following safety hazards caveat applies only to the
D6880Specification for Wood Boxes
test method portion, Sections 11, 12, and 13, of this specifica-
E177Practice for Use of the Terms Precision and Bias in
tion: This standard does not purport to address all of the safety
ASTM Test Methods
concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility
E691Practice for Conducting an Interlaboratory Study to
of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety,
Determine the Precision of a Test Method
health, and environmental practices and determine the appli-
2.2 Military Standard:
cability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
MIL-STD-105Sampling Procedures and Tables for Inspec-
1.6 This international standard was developed in accor-
tion by Attributes
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
2.3 AAR Rules:
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
AAROpen Top Loading Rules Manual, Section No. 1,
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
General Rules for LoadingAll Commodities, Part 2, Rule
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
17andSectionNo.7,RulesforLoadingAllCommodities
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
on Open Top Trailers and Containers for Rail Transport,
Part 2, Rule 117
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D10 on Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
Packaging and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D10.25 on Palletizing the ASTM website.
and Unitizing of Loads. AvailablefromStandardizationDocumentsOrderDesk,Bldg.4SectionD,700
Current edition approved Oct. 1, 2022. PublishedOctober 2022. Originally Robbins Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19111-5094, Attn: NPODS.
approved in 1983. Last previous edition approved in 2015 as D3953–15. DOI: Available from the Association of American Railroads (AAR), Safety and
10.1520/D3953-15R22. Operations, 50 F St., NW, Washington, DC 20001–1564.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D3953−15 (2022)
3. Terminology Grade 3—Manufacturer’s standard commercial practice
Finish C—Organic Painted Metallic Filled (Aluminum or
3.1 General definitions for packaging and distribution envi-
Zinc)
ronments are found in Terminology D996.
Finish D—Uncoated
5.1.3 Seal Styles:
4. Strapping Classifications
I—Snap-on or open
4.1 Strapping shall be of the following types, finish and
II—Thread-on or closed
sizes:
III—Push-type or overlap
Type 1, Flat Strapping: Power Machine and Hand Applica-
IV—Magazine-feed
tion:
V—Intersectional or cross-tie
Regular-duty
5.2 Seal Sizes—Seals shall have widths in accordance with
Regular-duty high-strength
strapping width shown in Table 1, Table 2, Table 3, and Table
Heavy-duty
4.
USLM (Unit Strap Lifting Method) (See Note 1.)
NOTE 1—For USLM applications, refer to manufacturer’s standard
6. Ordering Information
practice.
6.1 The inquiry and order shall indicate the following:
Type 2: Nail-On
6.1.1 Strapping type, duty, finish, grade, lubrication (when
4.1.1 Strapping Finish, Lubricated or Dry (see 8.3):
applicable), dimension required, and quantity of each size (see
4.1.1.1 Finish A—Organic (Pigmented or Unpigmented
Section 4).
Paint)
6.1.2 Coil of strapping dimensions, weight and feet per
4.1.1.2 Finish B—Galvanized (Hot Dipped or Electro-
pound, oscillated, ribbon wound, or cut-to-length (see Section
Deposit Galvanized) (see 8.10):
9, Table 5 and Table 6, and Fig. 1 and Fig. 2).
Grade 1—Heavy Coating
6.1.3 Seals (see Section 5) class, finish, grade (when
Grade 2—Moderate Coating
applicable), type, style, and quantity by width (or nomencla-
Grade 3—Commercial Coating
ture).
4.1.1.3 Finish C—Organic Painted Metallic Filled (Alumi-
6.1.4 Make or model of strapping equipment that the
num or Zinc)
strapping and seals must work in, if applicable.
4.1.1.4 Finish D—Uncoated
6.1.5 Title, designation, and date of this specification.
4.1.2 Strapping Sizes— Strapping shall have the widths and
6.1.6 For Department of Defense, indicate selection of
thicknessesinaccordancewithsizesshowninTable1,Table2,
preservation, packing, marking, and palletization, if applicable
Table 3, and Table 4.
(see Section 16).
5. Seal Classifications
6.2 Sizes or physical properties, or both, other than those
covered by this specification shall be as specified in the
5.1 Seals shall be of the following classes, finishes, types,
contract or order.
and styles:
5.1.1 Seal Classes:
7. Materials and Manufacture
R—Regular duty
H—Heavy duty 7.1 Materials shall be cold-rolled carbon steel of the quality
5.1.2 Seal Finishes: normally used for this purpose in commercial practice, and the
Finish A—Organic (painted) physical mechanical property requirements, as determined by
Finish B—Galvanized (hot dipped or electro-deposit galva- tests, shall be within the allowable limits.
nized) 7.1.1 Type 1 Regular-Duty Strapping—Regular-duty strap-
Grade 1—Heavy coating ping in Table 1 shall be low-carbon cold-rolled steel (see
Grade 2—Moderate coating 6.1.1).
TABLE 1 Type 1 Regular-Duty Strapping Widths, Thickness, and Breaking Strengths
Width, in.
0.015 (0.38) 0.018 (0.46) 0.020 (0.51) 0.023 (0.58) 0.028 (0.71) 0.035 (0.89)
(mm)
⁄8 450 540 600 690
(9.52) (2000) (2400) (2670) (3070)
⁄2 600 720 800 920
(12.70) (2670) (3200) (3560) (4090)
⁄8 750 900 1000 1150
(15.87) (3335) (4000) (4450) (5115)
⁄4 900 1200 1380 1680 2100
(19.05) (4000) (5340) (6140) (7470) (9340)
D3953−15 (2022)
TABLE 2 Type 1 Regular Duty High-Strength Strapping Widths, Thickness and Break Strengths
Thickness, in. (mm)
Width, in.
0.016 (0.41) 0.017 (0.43) 0.018 (0.46) 0.020 (0.51) 0.023 (0.58) 0.025 (0.64) 0.031 (0.79) 0.035 (0.89)
(mm)
Breaking Strength, min, lbf (N)
⁄8 640 750
(9.52) (2849) (3366)
⁄2 800 850 900 1000 1150
(12.70) (3559) (3781) (4003) (4448) (5115)
⁄8 1000 1050 1125 1250 1440
(15.87) (4448) (4671) (5004) (5560) (6405)
⁄4 1200 1275 1350 1500 1725 1875 2325
(19.05) (5339) (5671) (6005) (6672) (7673) (8340) (10342)
1 ⁄4 3125 3875 4375
(31.75) (13901) (17237) (19461)
TABLE 3 Type 1 Heavy-Duty Strapping Widths, Thickness, and Breaking Strengths
Thickness, in. (mm)
Width,
0.020 (0.51) 0.022 (0.56) 0.023 (0.58) 0.025 (0.64) 0.028 (0.71) 0.029 (0.75) 0.031 (0.79) 0.035 (0.89) 0.040 (1.02) 0.044 (1.12) 0.050 (1.27)
in. (mm)
Breaking Strength, min, lbf (N)
⁄2 1 280 1 470 1 950
(12.70) (5 690) (6 540) (8 675)
⁄8 1 600 1 840
(15.87) (7 120) (8 185)
⁄4 2 000 2 280 2 280 2 280 2 280 2 850 2 850 2 850 4 050
(19.05) (8 896) (10 140) (10140) (10 140) (10 140) (12 675) (12 675) (12 675) (18 015)
1 3 700 3 700
(25.4) (16 455) (16 455)
A
1 ⁄4 3 200 3 680 4 750 4 750 4 750 6 135 6 750 6 750
(31.75) (14 240) (16 370) (21 130) (21 130) (21 130) (27.295) (30 025) (30 025)
2 10 600 10 600
(50.80) (47 150) (47 150)
A
Heavy-duty, or heavy-duty/high elongation.
TABLE 4 Type 1 Extra-Heavy-Duty (USLM) Strapping Widths,
fromType 1 regular-duty, regular-duty high-strength orType 1
Thickness, Breaking Strengths, and Minimum Seal Joint
heavy-duty strapping, available in sizes ⁄8 in. (15.87 mm) in
Strengths
width or greater with punched nail holes. Hole diameters and
Width, Thickness, Min. Break Min. Seal Joint
hole spacing can vary depending upon strap size and duty,
in. (mm) in. (mm) Strength, lb (N) Strength, lb (N)
1 which shall be in accordance with manufacturer’s standard
1 ⁄4 (31.75) 0.044 (1.12) 8500 (37 800) 7650 (34 000)
1 ⁄4 (31.75) 0.050 (1.27) 9700 (43 150) 8730 (38 800)
practice. However, nail holes shall be spaced at intervals no
1 ⁄4 (31.75) 0.057 (1.45) 11 000 (48 430) 9900 (44 000)
more than 3 in. (76 mm) apart.
7.1.6 Seals for Type 1 Strapping—Unless otherwise
specified, seals for Type 1 strapping shall be made of steel in
7.1.2 Type 1 Regular-Duty High-Strength Strapping—
accordance with the manufacturer’s commercial practice.
Regular-duty high strength strapping in Table 2 shall be low to
8. Physical and Mechanical Properties
medium carbon cold-rolled steel.
7.1.3 Type 1 Heavy-Duty Strapping—Heavy-duty strapping
8.1 Breaking Strength and Elongation, Type 1 Regular-
in Table 3 shall be cold-rolled, high carbon, or medium carbon Duty, Regular-Duty High-Strength, Heavy-Duty, and USLM
high-manganese steel which has been fully heat-treated; for
Strapping :
example, austenitized and quenched. 8.1.1 Breaking Strength—The breaking strength of the
7.1.4 Type I USLM Strapping—USLM strapping in Table 4
strapping shall be as shown in Table 1, Table 2, Table 3, and
shall be cold-rolled, high-carbon steel that has been fully Table 4 when tested as specified in 13.3.
heat-treated, austenized, and quenched. 8.1.2 Elongation—The elongation in 6 in. (152 mm) for
7.1.5 Type 2 Nail-On Strapping—Unless otherwise Type 1 strapping, when tested as specified in 13.4, shall be as
specified, Type 2 nail-on strapping shall be strapping made follows:
D3953−15 (2022)
A
TABLE 5 Number of Feet Per Pound (Metres per Kilogram) of Type 1 Strapping
NOTE 1—Number of feet per pound (metres per kilogram) is based on nominal dimensions and will vary slightly with the width and thickness of the
strapping within the tolerances as described in 8.2.
Thickness, in. (mm)
0.010 0.012 0.015 0.018 0.020 0.022 0.023 0.025 0.028 0.029 0.031 0.035 0.040 0.044 0.050
Width, in.
(0.25) (0.311) (0.38) (0.46) (0.51) (0.56) (0.58) (0.64) (0.71) (0.75) (0.79) (0.89) (1.02) (1.12) (1.27)
(mm)
Length per Unit Mass, ft/lb (m/kg), approximate
⁄8 78.5 65.4 52.4 43.6 39.3 34.1
(9.52) (52.7) (43.9) (35.2) (29.3) (26.4) (22.9)
⁄2 58.9 49.1 39.3 32.7 29.4 25.6 19.0
(12.70) (39.6) (33.0) (26.4) (22.0) (19.7) (17.2) (12.7)
⁄8 47.1 39.3 31.4 26.2 23.6 20.5
(15.87) (31.6) (26.4) (21.1) (17.6) (15.8) (13.7)
⁄4 26.2 19.6 17.8 17.1 15.7 14.0 13.5 12.7 11.2
(19.05) (17.6) (13.1) (11.9) (11.5) (10.5) (9.4) (8.95) (8.5) (7.5)
1 10.1 9.5
(25.4) (6.7) (6.3)
1 ⁄4 11.8 9.4 8.1 7.6 6.6 5.9 5.3 4.7
(31.75) (7.9) (6.3) (5.5) (5.1) (4.4) (4.0) (3.5) (3.1)
2 3.3 2.9
(50.80) (2.2) (1.9)
A
Commercial tolerances apply.
TABLE 6 Size of Coils and Package
Inside Diameter, Outside
Coils Per
Size of Strapping, in (mm) Diameter, Coil Face Coil
Type Coils Package,
in. (mm) (Commercial max, Width Weight
max
Tolerance) in. (mm)
Oscillated ⁄8 by 0.015
(9.52 by 0.38)
through 16 (406) 23 ⁄2 (597) 1
⁄4 by 0.035
(19.05 by 0.89)
Ribbon ⁄4 by 0.022
(19.05 by 0.56)
through 16 (406) 27 (686) 1
⁄4 by 0.035
(19.05 by 0.89)
Ribbon 1 by 0.029
(25.4 by 0.75)
through 16 (406) 27 (686) 1
1by0.031
(25.4 by 0.79)
1 ⁄4 by 0.020
(31.75 by 0.51)
through 16 (406) 27 (686) 1
1 ⁄4 by 0.057
(31.75 by 1.45)
2by0.044
(50.80 by 1.12)
through 16 (406) 25 ⁄8 (657) 1
2by0.050
(50.80 by 1.27)
Jumbos ⁄8 by 0.015 (9.52 by 16 (406) in 1 3 in. to 16 350 lb. to
0.38) accordance in. 4000 lb.
with
through manufacturers
1 ⁄4 by 0.044 (31.75 commercial
by 1.12) practice
D3953−15 (2022)
FIG. 1 Recommended Seal Joints
8.2.1 Type 1 Strapping, Thickness—The thickness of strap-
Regular-duty (see 7.1.1) 0.5 to 4.0 %
Regular-duty high-strength (see 7.1.2) 0.5 to 8.0 %
ping sizes listed in Table 1, Table 2, and Table 3 shall not vary
Heavy-duty (see 7.1.3)
from nominal thickness by more than +0.002 in. (0.05 mm),
Thickness less than 0.031 in. (0.79 mm) 5.0 to 12 %
Thickness 0.031 in. (0.79 mm) and greater 6.5 to 12 %
–0.002 (0.05 mm) thickness, thickness of strapping sizes listed
USLM Strapping (see 7.1.4) 6.0 to 12 %
in Table 4 (USLM strapping) shall not vary by more than
8.2 Tolerances, Type 1 Strapping, Widths—The widths of
+0.004 in. (0.10 mm) and –0.000 in. (0.00 mm).
the strapping shall not vary from that shown in Table 1, Table
2, and Table 3 by more than 60.005 in. (0.13 mm) for all
cold-rolled strapping.
D3953−15 (2022)
FIG. 2 Oscillated Wound Coil
8.3 Lubrication—Unless otherwise specified, Type 1 strap- 8.5.1 The thickness and minimum breaking strength and
ping shall have a coating of wax or wax-like lubricant applied name of the manufacturer of the strap shall be marked by
to the surfaces that will render the strapping suitable for circles or circles plus the letter “M”.
application with tension tools of the feed wheel (friction) type
8.5.2 Thecirclediametershallbeaminimumof0.80in.(20
(see 4.1.2 and 6.1.4). The lubrication of the strapping is mm) to a maximum of 1.0 in. (25.4 mm) diameter.
intendedtofacilitatetheuseofstrappingtoolsinwhichthetwo
8.5.3 Seal identification mark must be visible when seal is
bandsofthestrappingareheldincontactwitheachotherunder
applied and while seal is in use.
pressure by frictional grips, and sliding of the faces of the
8.6 Type 2 Strapping:
strapping is necessary during the tensioning operation. Test in
8.6.1 Breaking Strength—The breaking strength for Type 2
accordance with 13.10.
strapping shall be the same as shown in Table 1, Table 2 or
8.4 Type 1 Strapping, Coils—Each coil shall consist of one
Table 3 for the applicable strapping size and type, but shall be
continuous piece of strapping. Coils with lengths of strapping
based on the cross-sectional metal area of the strapping taken
welded together shall be considered as one-piece coil.
across the hole. Breaking strength will be reduced proportion-
8.4.1 Dimensional Requirements at the Weld—The thick-
ally in accordance with nail hole diameter.
ness at the weld shall be no more than one and one half the
8.6.2 Tolerances—The tolerances on width and thickness
thickness of the strap. The width of strapping at the weld shall
for Type 2 strapping shall be the same as for Type 1 strapping
be subject to the same dimensional requirements as the
(see 8.2).
remainder of the strapping and must be straight with no offsets
8.7 Seals, Type 1 Strapping—Seals intended for Type 1
or angular alignment. Metal splattering or extruded points
strapping shall be made of steel to manufacturer’s commercial
causing increased thickness are not permissible. Only machine
practice. Seal lengths shall be adequate for a single-notch joint
welds shall be acceptable.
(onepairofcutnotches),adouble-notchjoint(twopairsofcut
8.4.2 Weld Effıciency—Strength of manufacturer’s process
notches), a double-crimp joint (two pairs of crimps), a triple-
welded joints in coils of strapping shall have a joint efficiency
crimp joint (three pairs of crimps), or a quadruple-crimp joint
of not less than 75% based on the breaking strength shown in
(four pairs of crimps). Unless otherwise specified, seals shall
Table 1, Table 2, and Table 3 when tested as specified in 13.6.
besuitableinsizeordesigntosatisfytherequirementsof8.9.2
USLM strapping must not contain production welds.
and 8.9.3.
8.5 Identification Marking—Each coil of AAR approved
8.7.1 Seal Width—Seal width shall be adequate to allow the
Type 1 heavy-duty, ⁄2-in. (12.7-mm) wide by 0.020 in. (0.51
seal to slip on the applicable strapping and shall be compatible
mm) in thickness and greater strapping shall be marked in
withthesealingtoolusedtoprovidetherequiredjointstrength.
accordance with the Association of American Railroads Gen-
8.7.2 Seals, Regular-Duty High Strength, Heavy-Duty and
eral Rule 17 and Rule 117. Each coil of USLM strapping shall
USLM,Sealsshallbeinthicknessandhardnesssuitableforuse
be marked in repeating intervals of 18 in. (457 mm) to 40 in.
with the type of strapping to which they are applied. USLM
(1016 mm) with identifying circles as follows:
strapping seals are to be marked in accordance with 8.5.
Width Thickness Identification
Marking
8.8 Application of Seals:
8.8.1 Style I—StyleIsealsshallhaveoneorbothsidesopen
1 ⁄4 (31.75) 0.044 (1.12) 00
1 ⁄4 (31.75) 0.050 (1.27) 000
so that the seal shall slip in the overlapping bands of strapping
1 ⁄4 (31.75) 0.057 (1.45) 000M
either during or after tensioning the strapping.
D3953−15 (2022)
8.8.2 Style II—StyleIIsealsshallhavesidespartiallyclosed 8.9.3 Crimp Joints—Crimp-typesealjoints,madewithhand
at the bottom of the seal so that this seal shall be pre-threaded tools or power hand tools, shall be made on applicable
with the overlapping bands of strapping before the tensioning strapping without cracking and tearing of the seal metal.
tool is applied. Crimped seal joints are usually intended for use with dry Type
8.8.3 Style III—Style III seals shall have the sides com- 1 heavy-duty or USLM strapping, primarily where severe
pletely closed by overlapping at the bottom of the seal so that impact or heavy stresses on the strap and joint may be
pre-threading with the overlapping bands of strapping and encountered. Crimp joints may also be used with lubricated
bending of the bottom strap under the seal can be accom- (waxed)strapping,providedthelossinfrictioniscompensated
plished.The seal shall permit the tensioning tool to tension the forbyaddingsufficientadditionalsealsandcrimps,orbyusing
strapping as the tool butts against the seal. “Grit”-type friction seals. Crimp seal joints when used with
8.8.4 Style IV—Style IV seals shall have sides opened to Type 1 heavy-duty (high-tension) strapping in sizes 1 ⁄4
allow nesting and stacking of the seals for hand or power tools (31.75mm) wide by 0.025 in. (0.64 mm) or greater must have
withmagazinefeed.Sealsshallfitandformjointswiththeseal a minimum joint efficiency of 75% based on the minimum
manufacturer’s tool model as specified (see 6.1.4). Means breaking strength of the applicable strapping size as shown in
providedonStyleIVsealstofacilitatestackingareacceptable. Table3whentestedasspecifiedin13.5.Crimpsealjointsmust
always be used with Type 1 USLM strapping and must have a
NOTE 2—Style IV seals are commonly designed for use with the seal
minimum joint efficiency of 90% based on the minimum
manufacturer’s tool and are not adaptable for other manufacturer’s tools.
breaking strength of the applicable strapping size as shown in
8.8.5 Style V—Style V seals shall have one or both sides
Table 4. USLM strapping lifting capacity is determined by
open so that the seal shall slip on the crossing bands of
many factors.Achieving the specified minimum joint strength
strapping either during or after tensioning of the straps.
is,byitself,notsufficienttoensureasafeliftingmethod.Refer
8.9 Sealed Joints:
tomanufacturer’sguidelinesfordesigninglifting.Examplesof
8.9.1 Fastening Flat Steel Strapping—The various methods
crimp-type seal joints are shown in Fig. 1.
of fastening flat steel strapping in use commercially are
8.9.4 Test seal joint efficiency periodically on both notch-
notched seal joints, crimped seal joints, and sealless joints
and crimp-type joints to ensure that the seal and sealer
madebydiecuttingorspotweldingtheoverlappingendsofthe
combination provides the desired joint strength.
strapping.Thesemethodsareacceptableprovidedthatthejoint
8.9.5 Die-cut sealless joints shall have a minimum joint
made meets the efficiency requirements, as follows:
efficiency of 75% based on the minimum breaking strength of
8.9.2 Notch Joints, Notch-type seal joints made with hand
the applicable strapping size as shown in Table 1, Table 2 or
tools, power hand tools, or power strapping machines recom-
Table 3, when tested as specified in 13.5. For exceptions, see
mendedbythesupplier,shallbemadeonapplicablestrapping,
AAR General Rules 17.
without cracking and tearing of the seal metal. Notched seal
8.9.6 Spot-welded sealless joints shall have a minimum
joints are usually intended for use with lubricated (waxed)
joint efficiency of 75% based on the breaking strength of the
strapping. Notched seal joints when used with Type 1 regular-
applicable strapping size as shown in Table 1, Table 2 or Table
duty strapping and regular-duty high-strength, or Type 1
3, when tested as specified in 13.5.
heavy-duty strapping must have a minimum joint strength of
8.9.7 Loop Joints shall be tested as specified in 13.7.
75% for double-notch joints and 45% for single-notch joints.
Jointstrengthisbasedontheminimumbreakingstrengthofthe 8.10 Galvanized Strapping—Finish B galvanized strapping
applicable strapping size as shown in Table 1, Table 2 and shall have the following minimum coating weights or
Table 3 when tested as specified in 13.5. Examples of notch- thicknesses, or both, when tested as specified in 13.8 (see
type seal joints are shown in Fig. 3. 10.2.3 and Table 7).
FIG. 3 Ribbon-wound Coil
D3953−15 (2022)
TABLE 7 Mass Loss of Zinc Coating
8.13.3 Spiral Twist (Cork Screw Effect)—Twist must not
Minimum Mass Loss, mg/6-in. (152-mm) exceed 20° in any 8 ft (2.4 m) long section of strap, when laid
Strapping Width
Specimen
on horizontal flat surface.
in. (mm) Grade 1 Grade 2 Grade 3
⁄8 (9.52) 263 158 53
9. Coil Configuration and Permissible Weight Variations
⁄2 (12.70) 350 210 70
⁄8 (15.87) 438 262 87 9.1 Type 1 Coils—Type 1 and Type 2 strapping shall be
⁄4 (19.05) 525 315 105
oscillated (mill)-wound coils weighing not less than 90 lb (41
1 (25.40) 700 420 140
1 kg)ormorethan110lb(50kg)(seeFig.2)orjumbooscillated
1 ⁄4 (31.75) 875 525 175
2 (50.8) 1400 840 280 coils(seeFig.4)weighingnotlessthan350ormorethan4000
lbs and ribbon-wound coils (see Fig. 3) weighing not less than
55 lb (25 kg) nor more than 110 lb (50 kg) when put up as
2 2 specified in Table 6. Oscillated- and ribbon-wound coils of
Grade 1—0.30 oz/ft (92 g/m ) of surface or 0.0005 in.
strapping are used in different types of dispensers.
(0.013 mm) thick.
2 2
Grade 2—0.18 oz/ft (55 g/m ) of surface or 0.0003 in. 9.2 Type 1 Core Liners—Type 1 strapping in oscillated-
wound coils shall be wound on core liners. Strapping in
(0.008 mm) thick.
Grade 3—In accordance with manufacturer’s commercial ribbon-wound coils shall not require core liners.
2 2
practice but no less than 0.06 oz/ft (18 g/m ) of surface or
9.3 Type 2 Coils—Type2strappingshallbeinsmallorlarge
0.0001 in. (0.003 mm) thick.
coils. Small coils shall be in one piece, not less than 200 ft (61
8.10.1 Edges of Grades 1, 2, and 3 shall not show signs of
m) or more than 400 ft (122 m) in length and supplied in
copper sulfate when tested in accordance with 13.11.
individual dispensing cartons. Large coils, oscillated (mill)
8.11 Ductility of Strapping Coating—Finish A, painted wound, shall weigh no less than 90 lb (41 kg) nor more than
110 lb (50 kg), and large coils, ribbon wound, shall weigh not
finish, Finish B, galvanized, Finish C, metallic-filled strapping
shall not crack or flake on the outside of the bent portion, less than 50 lb (23 kg) nor more than 125 lb (57 kg) when put
up as specified in Table 6.
except that cracks on the strapping shall be disregarded within
adistancefromtheedgeofthestrappingequaltoonefourthof
10. Workmanship, Finish, and Appearance
the width when tested as specified in 13.9.
10.1 Type 1 Strapping and Seals—Strapping shall be
8.12 Base Metal Ductility (Bend Test)—Strappingofvarious
straight, smooth, and clean and shall be free of kinks, grooves,
thicknesses shall withstand the minimum number of bends in
waves, edge curvature, indentations, excessive oil, and cracks.
one area as shown in Table 8. The test procedure is described
Seals shall be free of dents, burrs, and slivers, and not be
under 13.2, and shall be conducted on the final finished
deformed.
product. This requirement does not apply to USLM strapping.
10.1.1 Style of Edges—EdgesofType1strappingshallbeas
8.13 Straightness—Type 1 Strapping :
cut, milled, or formed in accordance with current commercial
8.13.1 Camber—Camber in the strapping shall not be more
practice and shall be free of sharp edges, burrs, and slivers
than ⁄2 in. (12 mm) in any 8-ft (2.4-m) length, when measured
prior to the finish application.
in accordance with Specification A109/A109M, Table10.
8.13.2 Coil Set (Bundle Curve)—Strap ends shall not rise
fromhorizontalflatplainmorethan2in.(50.8mm)inany8-ft
(2.4-m) long section of strap.
TABLE 8 Metal Bend Test Requirements for Strapping
Thickness
Number of Bends
in. (mm)
0.010 (0.25) 15
0.012 (0.31) 12
0.015 (0.38) 12
0.016 (0.41) 10
0.017 (0.43) 10
0.018 (0.46) 10
0.020 (0.51) 8
0.022 (0.56) 6
0.023 (0.58) 6
0.025 (0.64) 6
0.028 (0.71) 5
0.029 (0.75) 5
0.031 (0.79) 5
0.035 (0.89) 5
0.040 (1.02) 3
0.044 (1.12) 3
0.050 (1.27) 3
0.057 (1.45) 3
FIG. 4 Jumbo Oscillated Coil
D3953−15 (2022)
10.2 Strapping Finish—The finished coat of the strapping 11.2 Lot Size—The lot size shall consist of all product from
shall be adherent, free of scratches, runs, embedded foreign aspecificproductionrun,orthatamountofferedforacceptance
matter, uncoated areas, rust areas, or loose oxide scale. atonetimeasapplicable.Inthecaseofstrapping,itshallbeof
10.2.1 Finish A or C—FinishAstrappingshallhavesurfaces oneclass,type,finish,grade,duty,andsize.Inthecaseofseals
andedgescoatedwithanorganiccoatingthatshallyieldafilm it shall be of one type, style, class, finish, and width.
as specified in 10.2. OnTypes 1 and 2, cut-
...

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