Abstract: A strapping machine for securing at least one strap around a package has a binding head engageable against the package, a cincher, and a welder for connecting ends of the tightened strap. The welder has at least one upper advanceable welding electrode in an electrode housing and a counter electrode temporarily interacting therewith. A slide plate movable toward the package, forms the counter electrode, engages underneath overlapping ends of the strapping and directly on the package, and has a projecting tongue spaced from the welding electrode and a plate end part connected to a positioning mechanism.

Abstract: The invention relates to a strapping machine (1) for tying packages (2), in particular metal strips wound into coils, using at least one strapping band (4; 4a, 4b) guided around a package (2), wherein a tying head (8, 8a, 8b) can be placed against the package. The strapping machine comprises a tensioning device and a welding device (9a, 9b) for connecting the ends (4a, 4b) of the strapping bands (4) that are stretched under tension, said welding device comprising at least one upper advanceable welding electrode (12) in an electrode chamber (10). The strapping machine also comprises a counter electrode that temporarily interacts with said welding electrode. A sliding plate (14) is associated with the welding device (9a, 9b) towards the package (2).