Hose clamps are a popular attachment used in a variety of different industries in order to secure the transportation of products, liquids, gases, and chemicals.
But how do you know which is the correct hose clamp to use in a certain situation? We’ve got you covered. Keep reading to learn more from the team at The Hosemaster…
Sometimes referred to as a pipe clamp bracket, a hose clamp is a small fixture designed to secure a hose over a fitting, which prevents fluid from leaking at the connection point. These tools are widely used in various applications, and play a crucial role in ensuring the secure transportation of products, liquids, gases, and chemicals across different industries.
Hose clamps are categorised into five main types: screw/band, spring, wire, ear, and T-bolt. The selection of a specific type depends on the hose and the attachment it needs to secure. Of course, each type has unique features and applications, making them suitable for different uses, so let’s take a deep dive into them…
Let’s begin by looking at screw, or band, clamps. Sometimes known as worm-drive clamps or jubilee clamps, screw clamps are the most widely used type of hose clamp.
These clamps consist of a metal band with a screw mechanism that tightens the band around the hose. Typically made from stainless steel or galvanised steel, the screw mechanism allows for a secure fit that can be tightened or loosened using a screwdriver as needed.
Screw clamps are frequently employed to secure hoses in machinery and equipment, which is why they’ve seen great use in the automotive, plumbing and industrial sectors.
The advantages of screw clamps include their ease of installation and adjustment, as well as their strong and secure hold. However, it's important to note that over-tightening these clamps can damage the hose, and they may not be suitable for very high-pressure applications.
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Spring clamps, also known as constant-tension clamps, provide a consistent clamping force, even when temperature changes cause the hose material to expand or contract. Constructed from a single piece of spring steel, spring clamps typically have a C-shape with two tangs that can be squeezed together for installation and removal.
Spring clamps are frequently used in cooling systems for automotive applications, or in household appliances, like dishwashers or washing machines.
The main appeal of spring clamps is their ability to maintain a consistent clamping force, which makes them ideal for applications with temperature fluctuations. However, installing and removing spring clamps can be challenging without special tools, and they offer limited adjustability compared to screw clamps.
Also known as double wire clamps or loop clamps, wire clamps have a unique design with two wire loops that apply an even pressure around the hose. Typically made from stainless steel or galvanised steel wire, wire clamps are designed to ensure even pressure distribution, which helps to reduce the risk of hose damage.
The effectiveness of their design makes wire clamps a popular choice for low-pressure applications; they’re commonly used in garden hoses, and irrigation systems where the pressure is relatively low.
As we’ve mentioned, the advantages of wire clamps include their even pressure distribution, which minimises the risk of damaging the hose, and their straightforward design. However, wire clamps are generally limited to low-pressure applications and may require special pliers for installation or removal.
The design of ear clamps provide a unique, secure connection. The clamps are tightened by crimping the “ears” of the clamp with special pliers, which in turn creates a tight, tamper-proof seal.
Ear clamps are made from stainless steel or galvanised steel which means they have excellent corrosion resistance - which sees them often used for fuel lines and air conditioning systems. They are also found in medical devices and pharmaceutical applications, where a secure and tamper-proof connection is essential.
Ear clamps are great because of their ability to provide a tamper-proof and secure connection, however, installing and removing ear clamps requires special tools, and they are not easily adjusted once installed.
T-bolt clamps are heavy-duty hose clamps designed for high-pressure applications. Featuring a T-bolt and nut mechanism, T-bolt clamps are made from stainless steel or heavy-duty galvanised steel, which allows them to withstand highly pressurised conditions, and to maintain an even pressure distribution around the hose.
T-bolt clamps are commonly used in high-performance automotive applications, such as securing turbocharger and intercooler hoses. They are also found in industrial machinery and equipment, as well as marine applications, including securing hoses in boats and ships.
T-bolt clamps provide a strong, reliable clamping force, and are durable and corrosion-resistant. However, they tend to be more expensive than other types of clamps and require tools for installation and adjustment.
Selecting the right hose clamp is just one half of the battle. The other important consideration is the material it's made from.
Different materials offer distinct advantages and disadvantages, which can influence the clamp’s performance, durability, and suitability for certain applications. Some of the common materials used in hose clamps are:
Stainless steel is the most common material for hose clamps, and for good reason.
Stainless steel is highly regarded for its excellent corrosion resistance, strength, and durability. Its ability to withstand harsh environmental conditions makes it especially suitable for automotive, marine, and industrial uses where exposure to moisture, chemicals, and extreme temperatures is common.
In addition to corrosion resistance, stainless steel clamps are also incredibly strong and capable of withstanding high pressures, making them a reliable option for demanding applications.
However, stainless steel clamps can be more expensive than those made from other materials. Also, while stainless steel is highly durable, it can be more challenging to work with due to its rigidity.
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Plastic hose clamps are a lightweight and cost-effective alternative to metal clamps. Made from various types of plastics, including nylon and polypropylene, these clamps are suitable for applications where high strength is not required as the plastic is unable to meet the same demands as a metal clamp.
Because of this, plastic clamps are often used in low-pressure situations, such as in gardening, irrigation systems, and certain household applications.
The primary advantage of plastic hose clamps is their cost-effectiveness. They are less expensive than metal clamps, and are much lighter, which can be beneficial in applications where weight is a concern. Additionally, plastic offers some great resistance to corrosion and chemicals.
However, plastic hose clamps do have their limitations. They are neither as strong nor as durable as metal clamps, and can also be more prone to breakage, especially in extreme temperatures or when subjected to significant stress.
Brass hose clamps, being resistant to corrosion and pressure, are durable and suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. An alloy of copper and zinc, brass clamps provide a strong and reliable hold, and are used in plumbing and marine applications where exposure to water and other corrosive elements is common.
However, they can be more expensive than other types of clamps, and their availability may be limited compared to more common materials like stainless steel.
Aluminium hose clamps are lightweight and resistant to corrosion. While not as strong as stainless steel, aluminium offers a good balance of strength and weight. These clamps are often used in automotive and industrial applications where weight savings are important.
However, one drawback of aluminium clamps is that they can be more prone to deformation under high pressure, which can affect their performance in some situations.
Getting the right size for your hose clamp is crucial. Not only for saving you time and money, but also ensuring that you reduce the risk of leaks, reduced efficiency, or even damage to the hose or the equipment it's attached to. Let’s run through the steps to get that measurement right…
The first step in selecting the right hose clamp is to accurately measure the hose diameter. This measurement is essential because the clamp needs to fit snugly around the hose without being too tight or too loose.
To measure the hose diameter, you will need a flexible measuring tape or a caliper.
Start by measuring the outer diameter of the hose. Wrap the measuring tape around the hose and record the measurement. If you're using a caliper, gently place it around the hose without compressing it and take the reading.
Once you have the outer diameter measurement, you can use this information to select the appropriate clamp size. However, if you don’t have a caliper, you can use the following formula:
Outside Diameter (O.D.) = Circumference (C) ÷ Pi (3.)
Most hose clamps will have a range of diameters they can accommodate, so it's important to choose a clamp that fits within this range. Once you’ve confirmed your measurements, you can select a clamp that sits within the correct adjustment range.
To help clear things up, below is a table for the British standard for screw/band clamps:
Size
Adjustment range (millimetres)
Adjustment range (inches)
12
9.5 mm - 12 mm
⅜” - ½”
16
11 mm - 16 mm
½” - ⅝”
20
13 mm - 20 mm
½” - ¾”
22
16 mm - 22 mm
⅝” - ⅞”
25
18 mm - 25 mm
¾” - 1”
30
22 mm - 30 mm
⅞” - 1 ⅛”
35
25 mm - 35 mm
1” - 1 ⅜”
40
30 mm - 40 mm
1 ¼” - 1 ⅝”
45
32 mm - 45 mm
1 ¼” - 1 ¾”
50
35 mm - 50 mm
1 ⅜” - 2”
55
40 mm - 55 mm
1 ⅝” - 2 ⅛”
60
45 mm - 60 mm
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1 ¾” - 2 ⅜”
70
55 mm - 70 mm
2 ⅛” - 2 ¾”
When selecting the right size and fit for hose clamps, don’t forget the significant roles temperature and pressure can play.
Hoses and clamps can expand and contract with temperature changes, which may affect the seal's integrity, so it's important to think about the operating temperature range when selecting a hose clamp.
Pressure is another critical factor to remember. High-pressure applications will require clamps that can maintain a secure hold without slipping or loosening. When dealing with such cases, heavy-duty clamps like T-bolt clamps can provide a strong and reliable clamping force.
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To achieve a secure, tight clamp, you need to make sure that you have properly installed your hose clamp. When installing a hose clamp, follow these step-by-step installation guidelines:
Before starting the installation, make sure you have all the proper tools for the job. Different types of hose clamp will require different tools, such as a screwdriver for screw clamps, pliers for ear clamps, or a wrench for T-bolt clamps. Having the right tools on hand will make the installation process much smoother and easier.
Make sure the hose and fitting are clean and free of any debris or contaminants. If the hose is old or damaged, it might be time to replace it so you can ensure a tight seal. Once done, slide the hose clamp onto the hose before attaching the hose to the fitting.
Not sure what to look for? Learn How to Tell If Your Hydraulic Hose Needs Replacing with The Hosemaster…
Once the hose is securely attached to the fitting, slide the hose clamp into place. The clamp should be positioned about a quarter of an inch from the end of the hose, covering the fitting's barb or ribbed area. Make sure that the clamp is evenly aligned and not twisted or angled.
Using the correct tool for the chosen clamp, tighten the hose clamp as follows:
After tightening the clamp, inspect the connection to make sure that the hose is securely attached, and that there are no visible gaps or misalignments. If necessary, adjust the clamp and re-tighten it to achieve a proper seal.
Installing hose clamps correctly is an important task, so to ensure you do it correctly, avoid these common mistakes:
The process for removing a hose clamp is relatively straightforward, though it depends on the type of hose clamp being used. Proper tools are essential for the job to ensure a smooth and damage-free removal process:
After removing the clamp, inspect the hose for any signs of wear or damage. If the hose is in good condition, it can be reused with a new clamp. However, if there are any cracks, tears, or other signs of damage, it is advisable to replace the hose to ensure a secure and leak-free connection.
It is recommended that you perform regular maintenance and inspection of your hose clamps to ensure their continued performance and reliability. Follow these guidelines to keep your hose clamps in optimal condition:
Hose clamps play an integral role in securing the transportation of products, liquids, gases, and chemicals, so it is important to pick the right hose clamp for your needs. That’s where The Hosemaster can help. We have a wide range of hoses, clamps, and accessories suitable for any application.
If you require additional support or buying advice, we’re always happy to help. Contact us online with any sales or technical questions, or give us a call on 604 002 to speak to one of our team at any stage of your buying journey.
For more product buying guides and useful information, check out The Hosemaster blog…
From the intricate pipework beneath a Bristol home to the heavy-duty machinery on a construction site in Birmingham, or the vital engine components of a lorry travelling the M6 – humble hose clamps perform a critical function. They secure hoses to fittings, preventing leaks of fluids or gases. While seemingly simple, the consequences of a clamp failing can range from inconvenient (a leaky garden hose in your Kent garden) to catastrophic (a burst coolant hose on a vehicle or a failure in industrial processing in Sheffield).
This critical role highlights the importance of choosing a clamp with adequate strength for the application. But with numerous types available on the UK market, from the ubiquitous worm drive (often called Jubilee clips) to specialised bolt & barrel clamps, how do you know which offers the best performance? This guide delves into the world of hose clamps to answer the crucial question: What type of hose clamp is strongest?
When we ask which clamp is "strongest," we need to be specific. Strength in a hose clamp context can refer to several performance characteristics:
Therefore, the "strongest" clamp isn't just the one you can tighten the most; it's the one that provides a reliable, durable, and appropriate seal for the specific demands of the application.
Several design and material factors determine a hose clamp's potential strength and reliability:
The material is paramount, especially regarding corrosion resistance and ultimate strength. Common materials in the UK include:
The way the clamp tightens and holds is critical:
Generally, a wider and thicker band distributes the clamping force over a larger area, reducing the risk of cutting into the hose and increasing the overall tensile strength of the clamp assembly. Heavy-duty clamps typically feature wider, thicker bands.
Even the strongest clamp will fail if installed incorrectly. Overtightening can damage the hose or the clamp mechanism itself, while under-tightening leads to leaks. Using the correct size clamp and tightening it to the manufacturer's recommended torque specification (using a torque wrench where specified, especially for bolt & barrel clamps) is essential for achieving maximum strength and reliability.
Let's examine the most common types found in the UK and evaluate their strength characteristics:
Description: The classic, widely recognised clamp with a screw mechanism engaging slots in the band. Often referred to by the brand name "Jubilee Clip" in the UK.
Strength: Offer moderate clamping force suitable for many general-purpose applications like domestic plumbing, garden hoses, and low-pressure automotive lines (e.g., air intakes). Their strength is limited by the screw threads and the band slots. Non-perforated bands (embossed rather than slotted) can offer slightly higher strength and better hose protection.
Pros: Widely available, inexpensive, easy to install/remove with a screwdriver or nut driver, available in various materials (including W4 stainless).
Cons: Can damage soft silicone hoses if overtightened, clamping force isn't always uniform, limited ultimate strength compared to other types, potential for loosening under heavy vibration.
UK Relevance: Ubiquitous in DIY stores nationwide, used extensively in household plumbing and basic car maintenance in garages from London to Glasgow.
Description: Feature a T-shaped bolt that threads into a trunnion, pulling the clamp band tight. Often have a floating bridge liner to prevent hose extrusion.
Strength: Generally considered one of the strongest clamp types available. They provide very high clamping force and distribute it much more uniformly than worm drives. Excellent tensile strength and resistance to loosening under vibration and pressure spikes.
Pros: Superior clamping force, excellent seal integrity, highly durable, ideal for high-pressure applications (e.g., turbocharger hoses, industrial fluid transfer), reusable.
Cons: Bulkier, more expensive than worm drives, often require a socket or wrench for tightening (sometimes to specific torque).
UK Relevance: Essential in heavy industry (manufacturing in the West Midlands), performance automotive tuning (near racing circuits like Silverstone), heavy haulage maintenance depots, and demanding agricultural machinery used across Lincolnshire and East Anglia.
Description: Use a spring mechanism (either a band-type spring or Belleville washers on a volt & barrel style) to automatically adjust tension.
Strength: Their "strength" lies in maintaining a consistent clamping force despite expansion and contraction of the hose and fitting due to temperature changes. They don't necessarily offer the highest peak clamping force compared to a bolt & barrel.
Pros: Excellent for applications with significant temperature fluctuations (e.g., engine coolant and heater hoses), prevent "cold flow" leaks.
Cons: Lower maximum clamping force than bolt & barrel, often require special pliers for installation/removal, limited size adjustment range.
UK Relevance: Standard fitment on many coolant systems in cars produced in UK automotive hubs (like the North East or Midlands), also used in HVAC systems.
Description: Single-piece clamps with one or two 'ears' that are crimped using a special tool to tighten the band.
Strength: Provide a secure, consistent, and tamper-resistant connection once properly crimped. The strength is decent for their size, focusing on reliability and consistency within specific parameters rather than extreme high pressure.
Pros: Tamper-proof, low profile, quick assembly line installation, relatively inexpensive (clamp itself), good for specific Outside Diameter (OD) applications.
Cons: Single-use only, require a dedicated crimping tool, cannot be adjusted, less forgiving of size variations, not designed for the absolute highest pressures like bolt & barrel.
UK Relevance: Widely used in manufacturing assembly (e.g., white goods), automotive CV joint boots, some plumbing fittings, and beverage dispensing systems.
Description: Simple clamps made from bent wire (single or double wire loops), tightened usually with a screw mechanism.
Strength: Generally the weakest type of hose clamp. They provide low clamping force and can easily dig into and damage the hose material.
Pros: Very inexpensive, simple design.
Cons: Low holding power, prone to damaging hoses, not suitable for pressure or critical applications.
UK Relevance: Sometimes found on very low-pressure applications like washing machine drain hoses or basic garden equipment. Generally avoided for anything demanding.
Description: Snap-fit hose clamps are, typically made of plastic but not always, that you simply squeeze shut by hand or associated tool. Their interlocking teeth click and lock into place, creating a secure seal for low-pressure hoses, such as those found in vehicles and appliances. Notable snap fit hose clips include Herbie clips made by HCL.
Strength: Designed for low to medium-pressure applications, snap-fit hose clamps get their strength from a row of interlocking nylon teeth that click into place. While not as strong as metal screw clamps, designs with a double row of teeth can often hold pressures up to 200 PSI. Their effectiveness depends on proper sizing, and their plastic construction gives them excellent resistance to corrosion, fuels, and chemicals.
Pros: Their main advantages are extremely fast, tool-free installation and a plastic design that makes them inexpensive, lightweight, and completely corrosion-proof.
Cons: Their primary weaknesses are low strength, making them unsuitable for high pressure. They also offer poor adjustability and require a precise size match to work effectively.
UK Relevance: In the UK, the usage of snap-fit hose clamps is widespread and directly tied to the country's key manufacturing, automotive, and agricultural sectors. Rather than being a niche product, they are a standard, high-volume component prized for efficiency and durability in specific contexts.
Description: High torque clamps are heavy-duty versions of standard worm-drive hose clamps. They feature a robust, often solid, band and a stronger screw mechanism.
This design allows for a much tighter and more secure grip.
Strength Their primary strength is an extremely high clamping force. They are built to withstand high pressures and significant vibration. Made from materials like high-tensile or stainless steel, they resist stretching and breaking.
Pros They create a powerful and reliable seal for critical connections. Their robust build ensures durability and long service life. They provide excellent resistance to loosening from vibration or pressure spikes.
Cons They are more expensive than standard worm-drive clamps. Over-tightening can damage softer silicone or rubber hoses. Their bulkier size may not fit in tight or restricted spaces.
UK Relevance They are vital in the UK's automotive and transport sectors for HGVs, buses, and trains. Their corrosion resistance is crucial for UK marine engineering and shipbuilding. British manufacturers, like JCS in Suffolk, are world-renowned producers of these clamps.
Based purely on the ability to generate the highest clamping force and resist tensile failure under extreme pressure, the bolt & barrel Clamp and its Heavy-Duty variants are generally considered the strongest type of hose clamp readily available.
Their design inherently allows for higher torque application translating into greater radial pressure, distributed more evenly thanks to the robust band and often-included liner. This makes them the go-to choice for high-boost automotive applications, industrial hydraulics, and situations where connection integrity is paramount.
However, "strongest" is context-dependent:
Selecting the appropriate clamp involves matching its strength characteristics to the specific needs:
While bolt & barrel clamps generally offer the highest brute clamping force and tensile strength, declaring them universally the "strongest" overlooks the nuances of different applications. The optimal choice depends on factors like pressure, temperature variation, vibration, hose material, and the surrounding environment (especially regarding corrosion in coastal UK counties).
For everyday UK applications, a quality stainless steel worm drive clamp often provides ample strength and reliability. However, when faced with high pressures, significant temperature swings, heavy vibration, or safety-critical connections, investing in the superior strength of a bolt & barrel or the adaptive sealing of a Constant Tension clamp is wise. Always prioritise choosing the correct type and size of clamp, ensure it's made from a suitable material (especially considering the UK's damp climate and coastal areas), and install it properly to achieve a strong, lasting, and leak-free connection.
Q1: What's the difference between 304 (W4) and 316 (W5) stainless steel hose clamps?
A1: Both offer good corrosion resistance. 304 (W4) is suitable for most general, automotive, and industrial uses in the UK. 316 (W5) contains molybdenum, giving it superior resistance to chlorides (saltwater) and harsh chemicals. It's essential for marine environments (boats, coastal installations) and certain chemical processing applications. In terms of pure clamping strength, they are often comparable for the same clamp design.
Q2: Can I reuse hose clamps?
A2: It depends on the type. Worm Drive and bolt & barrel clamps are generally designed to be reusable, provided the band isn't deformed and the screw/bolt threads are undamaged. Always inspect them before reuse. Ear Clamps are strictly single-use and must be replaced if removed. Constant Tension clamps can sometimes be reused if removed carefully with the correct tool, but replacement is often recommended. You can read our guide here.
Q3: How tight should I tighten a hose clamp?
A3: This is crucial! Overtightening can damage the hose or clamp, while under-tightening causes leaks. For general Worm Drive clamps, tighten until snug, then typically give an additional quarter to half turn – avoid stripping the screw or cutting the hose. For bolt & barrel clamps and critical applications, it's best to use a torque wrench and tighten to the manufacturer's specified torque value. This ensures optimal sealing force without damage.
Q4: Are standard Jubilee clips (Worm Drive) strong enough for car coolant hoses?
A4: While sometimes used, they are not ideal, especially on modern vehicles. Coolant systems experience significant temperature and pressure cycles. Worm drive clamps can loosen over time due to the hose material expanding/contracting and compressing (cold flow). Constant Tension clamps are specifically designed for this and are the preferred OEM choice, offering a more reliable long-term seal. If using worm drive, choose a high-quality W4 stainless version and check periodically for tightness.
Q5: Where can I buy strong hose clamps like bolt & barrel in the UK?
The company is the world’s best British Type Hose Clamp supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.