Differences Between Plastic, Lead and Metal Security Seals
Security seals are single-use systems that are used to ensure product and area security, and leave a trace in case of intervention. However, not every security need is the same. For this reason, different seal types are preferred depending on the sector, transportation method, environmental conditions and security level. The three most commonly used seal types are plastic, lead and metal security seals.
In this article, we comprehensively compare these three seal types and discuss which seal is more suitable for which areas.
1. Plastic Security Seals
Definition:
Plastic seals are usually made of durable plastic materials such as polypropylene or nylon. They are colored, serially numbered, easily applicable and economical seals.
Advantages:
Affordable.
Lightweight and easy to carry.
Offers various color and model options.
Logos, text or barcodes can be printed on them.
Practical to install and remove.
Areas of Use:
Cargo boxes
Meter sealing (electricity, water, natural gas)
Archive boxes
Hotel and hospital cleaning seals
Bag and bag sealing
Disadvantages:
Its physical durability is lower than metal.
Not recommended for high-risk areas
2. Lead Security Seals
Definition:
Lead seals are classic sealing systems where solid or empty lead or lead alloy discs are used with wire. It is closed with mechanical sealing pliers.
Advantages:
It is durable and intervention marks are easily noticed.
It provides security without attracting attention with its small and simple structure.
It is the traditional solution preferred for years for meter sealing.
Areas of Use:
Electricity, water and natural gas meters
Laboratory samples
Bank sacks
Forensic sealing applications
Disadvantages:
It takes some time to apply (requires pliers).
It must be used with wire.
Lead can be harmful to nature (restricted in some countries).
3. Metal Security Seals
Definition:
Metal seals are high-security seals made of high-strength metals such as steel or aluminum that cannot be opened without being cut. They are especially used in international transportation.
Advantages:
It has the highest level of security.
It is almost impossible to intervene by force.
It is compatible with international security certificates such as ISO 17712.
It is resistant to weather conditions and impacts.
Areas of Use:
Container sealing
Customs seals
TIR and transport trucks
High-value product shipments
Airport and port security
Disadvantages:
It is more costly than other seals.
It requires a cutting tool to remove.