Tips For The Right Type Of Clamp

Choosing the right clamp for your needs can be complicated. Different industries require different functions from clamps. You want to ensure that the aluminum tube clamps you choose will serve its purpose correctly.

Here are a few tips to help you make the best clamp decision.

1. Determine The Grade Of Stainless Steel You Need

All clamps made of stainless steel are designed to ensure durability and versatility, but steel comes in many different grades. Selecting the right grade of stainless steel is key when choosing your clamp. You need to make sure that the materials in the clip you have chosen will stand on the job.

Steel grades vary in terms of corrosion resistance, formability, weldability and strength. Some types of austenitic stainless steels can be hardened by cold working, providing greater durability and ductility, while steel is still formable and welded.

The row you choose depends on the application. Clamps used in the marine industry, for example, must be corrosion resistant and able to withstand pressure. Car clamps are very stressful and must withstand high temperatures. Strong nickel-containing steels are essential in each of these industries.

2. Consider The Material Of The Hose Or Pipe

While choosing the right clamp material is important, you should also consider hose material. They vary in thickness, weight, flexibility and strength. Flexible hoses provide greater flexibility but are less durable than solids designed to withstand high temperatures and pressures. See tube lock

For example, irrigation systems use PVC pipes that can be subjected to strong water pressure, while polyurethane ventilation hoses are created for strong absorption.

Flexible hoses such as silicon and some polyurethane hoses require clamps that will not cause damage. When working with a soft hose, choose clips with beveled edges that prevent the hose from being cut or torn, and look at clamps that do not contain any holes that may leak the hose, damaging the hose.

3. Select The Proper Clamp Size

Of course, size is one of the biggest factors to consider when determining which clamp you need. When measuring the size of the hose, you should use the outer diameter.

Adjustable clamps (such as worm motor and non-perforated screw clamps) can be a great option due to their versatility. It gives you the ability to adjust the clamp after fixation in case of temperature change or obsolescence which causes the hose to shrink or expand.

However, the additional range provided by worm gear clips can cause other problems. If the clamp is too large, you may end up with a long protruding strip or tang, which poses a safety risk. Also, if the clamp is closed down too much, the clamp may become D-shaped, resulting in leaks. It's also a waste, because you pay for more items than you need.

It's best to choose the ideal size to start with the wrong size instead of replacing it.

These are just a few of the factors involved in choosing the right clamp. Download our tips sheet for a more detailed guide on choosing the best clip for you. In it, you will learn best measurement practices and the important questions you ask yourself when you make your decision.

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