There are several types of hose clamps.
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Screw hose clamps
These are among the most common and versatile. They generally consist of a perforated, spiral metal strip and a screw for tightening or loosening the clamp. These clamps are adjustable, which makes them ideal for applications where the diameter of the hose or cables may vary slightly.
Applications:
They are widely used in automotive applications and various pipelines, as they offer good resistance to pressure and are easy to install.
Ear hose clamps (single or double)
This is a practical option when there is little space to install the clamp or in cases where it has to be fitted or removed quickly. These clamps have one or more “ears” which are tightened with pliers to secure the clamp around the hose. They are widely used in the automotive sector to secure small hoses. They are not reusable, as you have to cut them off to remove them.
Wire hose clamps (single or double)
These are suitable for attaching semi-rigid or corrugated hoses, such as those used in cars. They can also be fitted to large-diameter hoses.
Quick-release clamps
It is recommended to use these when the job involves frequent assembly and disassembly of hoses. The system is simple: simply tighten or loosen the screw to adjust the clamp’s clamping force and secure the assembly.
T-bolt hose clamps
These are easy to recognize by the non-leaking strip to which two brackets are welded that accommodate a bolt and a locking nut. They are intended for thicker hoses, as they are extremely resistant. However, they have a very limited opening range.
Plastic hose clamps, particularly made of nylon or polypropylene, are a lightweight and non-conductive option. They are particularly useful in electrical applications where insulation is crucial. In addition, they have good resistance to chemical corrosion and do not rust, which makes them suitable for certain chemical or aquatic applications. However, plastic clamps are not as resistant to heat or pressure as metal clamps and can break when subjected to heavy mechanical stress or temperature variations.
Types of clamps and examples of applications:
Plastic hose clamps are mainly used in the electrical and electronics sectors.
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
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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
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.
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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.
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