Webbing is a woven fabric often used in place of rope, and it has many applications, including automobiles, furniture, and load securing. When selecting webbing for commercial purposes, there are many considerations, such as the webbing type and material.
Webbing Types and Materials
There are two main types of commercial webbing: flat and tubular. Flat webbing is a solid weave, and common examples include seat belts and tie-down straps. Tubular webbing is instead hollow and often used in boating, climbing, and many industrial applications. You can use tubular webbing instead of a rope or as a protective layer for a rope or cord.
Webbing manufacturers use many different materials to make their products. Buyers will generally see these materials categorized as either standard or heavy-duty. Tubular webbing is typically but not always made from heavy-duty varieties. Flat webbing, on the other hand, is available in a wider range of materials. Popular standard varieties include acrylic and polyester. Common heavy-duty varieties include polypropylene and polyester. Note that you may also encounter many brand names. These are, for instance, types of polyester manufactured using a patented formula.
Standard vs. Heavy-Duty Varieties
Standard webbing varieties will generally be less expensive and are therefore preferable if they meet the needs of the job. Heavy-duty webbing varieties will tend to last longer and take more abuse. That can make them a better long-term value depending on how you plan to use the webbing. A top consideration is the weight rating you need. The weight the webbing must support will dictate not only the webbing type but also the necessary width. Commercial users must also consider the environment in which they’ll use the webbing. Outdoor use, for instance, will generally demand heavy-duty webbing due to the wind and other environmental factors.
Breaking Strength and Stretch
When it comes to the overall strength of webbing, there are considerations beyond the weight rating or working load limit. The breaking strength is the maximum force the webbing can withstand before it snaps. You’ll generally want a breaking strength above the maximum force you intend it to withstand. Another consideration is stretch. Some webbing is designed to provide some give while other products are made to resist stretching.
Abrasion Resistance
When using webbing in high-traffic areas, you need to plan for abrasion. Manufacturers put their webbing through a series of abrasion tests to determine how well they’ll stand up to the abuse. Notable abrasion-resistant webbing materials include nylon, Kevlar, and aramid.
Buoyancy and Water Absorption
If using webbing in scenarios where water is involved, it’s a factor as well. Many manufacturers rate their webbing for buoyancy for users who need their webbing to float. There is also webbing that is moisture resistant while other products are designed to absorb water and other liquids.
Ultraviolet and Heat Resistance
Buyers will find UV resistance ratings for both standard and heavy-duty varieties. Another potential consideration is heat resistance. A webbing with low heat resistance can break down quickly outdoors during the hot summer months despite a high UV resistance.
If you are in the market for commercial webbing, use the above information to find the webbing products that will work best for your needs.
