Steel is usually applied with hand tools, either a tensioner and sealer or a combination “sealless” tool, either manual or pneumatic.
Polypropylene is applied with buckles, which do not require tools, with various hand tool, either manual or powered, or by a machine.
Polyester is applied with hand tools, either manual or powered or with an automatic strapping machine.
Cord strapping is sealed with a wire buckle. Cord can be tensioned either by hand or with a manual tensioner.