Wherever there is a need to hold objects firmly in place, clamps are the tool for the job. They can be found on workbenches in many industries, including woodworking, metalworking.
All clamps provide this basic requirement, but you may be surprised to learn that there are many different types of clamps, all built to serve under specific circumstances.
This comprehensive guide to 11+ types of clamps will showcase the many ways clamps can be used in practice, and highlight the importance of these handy tools in a variety of industries.
11+ types of clamps and their uses
Universal Clamp
Universal clamps are a commonly used tool in lifting operations due to their versatility and ease of implementation. Their reliability comes from their construction, which often incorporates durable steel components.
Moreover, universal clamps are typically compatible with ratchet lever hoists, allowing for the precise positioning and lifting of steel structures or fabrications. It is no wonder that many construction professionals consider them a go-to tool for their projects.
Take a look at our Camlok TAG Wide Jaw Universal Clamp.
Screw Clamp
Screw clamps are a mainstay in toolmakers workshops, owing to their reliability and ease of use. Their reliability stems from the fact that they are usually made mostly of steel, making them very durable.
They can also be used in conjunction with ratchet lever hoists to help position steel structures or fabrications. This means they are a favourite of many construction workers throughout the industry.
Explore our Camlok TSD Standard Screw Clamp.
Pipe Clamp
A pipe clamp, sometimes referred to as a pipe clip, is a type of clamp that fits around cables, pipes or other cylindrical objects. They typically come in either plastic or copper, and can be configured either as gripping (anchor) or non-gripping (saddle/guide). A range of sizes and diameters are usually available.
Pipe clamps are typically used for plumbing, heating or electrical purposes, and are a common feature in households and workplaces to secure conduits in place. They are also often found in drainage systems.
Take a look at our Camlok BTG Concrete Pipe Clamp.
Beam Clamp
A beam clamp is a type of clamp designed to hold a beam or other structural feature in place. They are typically employed in engineering and construction settings, and are intended to either lift or prevent objects from moving while they are being repaired or supported.
Beam clamps are available in a number of shapes and sizes, and are the perfect accompaniment to wood, metal or concrete projects. Different types of beam clamps include bottom-flange clamps, top-flange clamps, and web clamps.
Check out our range of beam clamps for lifting.
Plate Clamp
A plate lifting clamp is a particular type of clamp designed for raising metal plates. Often used in the process of construction or manufacturing, they help to move these metal plates to a different place.
Vertical plate lifting clamps typically use a lever which controls the jaws, which in turn holds the plate’s edges. Pulling on the handle or lever of the clamp, which is often attached to a crane, raises the plate. As the name suggests, this clamp allows plates to be lifted in a vertical orientation.
If you’re in the market for a clamp such as this, have a look at our Camlok 92 Series Vertical Plate Clamp.
Girder Clamp
A girder lifting clamp is a specialised type of clamp intended for raising girders. Typically employed in the construction or manufacturing industries, they facilitate the transfer of these heavy structural members to a new location.
Vertical girder lifting clamps usually incorporate a lever mechanism that governs the jaws, which grasp the girder’s edges. By pulling on the clamp’s handle or lever, often attached to a crane, the girder is elevated. As the name implies, this type of clamp enables girders to be lifted in a vertical position.
Explore our handy range of girder clamps.
Drop Test Clamp
Drop test clamps are a type of clamp that are primarily used to assess the impact resistance of various products or structures. They find widespread application in industries where the reliability and performance of products are critical, such as in the aerospace, automotive, and defense sectors.
These clamps typically subject the product or structure to a sudden drop or impact, simulating real-world conditions to evaluate their ability to withstand such forces. Some drop test clamps may also be used in conjunction with other equipment such as vibration test machines, to simulate more realistic testing conditions.
Test your product’s resistance with our Camlok Drop Test Clamp.
Rail Lifting Clamp
Commonly used in railway construction, maintenance and repair, rail lifting clamps are a specific type of clamp designed for lifting and transporting rail components, such as rails, sleepers, and switch blocks. They are commonly used in industries such as railway construction, maintenance, and repair, where safe and efficient handling of heavy rail components is essential.
Rail lifting clamps work by securely gripping the rail component and lifting it using a crane or other lifting equipment. This allows for easy transportation and installation of the component, while ensuring that it is not damaged during the lifting process.
Utilise our range of Rail Lifting Clamps.
Pitching Clamp
This type of clamp is most commonly employed in holding and securing roof tiles or shingles during construction or repair work. They are commonly used in the roofing industry, where safety and stability are of utmost importance.
Pitching clamps work by gripping the edge of the tile or shingle and securing it in place, preventing it from slipping or moving during installation. This ensures that the roof is properly installed and will not be compromised by wind or other environmental factors. These clamps come in various shapes and sizes, and some are designed to hold specific types of tiles or shingles.
Our range of pitching clamps includes the Camlok CP Pile Pitching Clamp.
Pulling Clamp
Pulling clamps are utilised in the marine and construction industries for the purpose of holding and lifting pilings. These industries have environments where safe and efficient handling of heavy pilings is essential.
Pulling clamps work by gripping the piling securely and lifting it using a crane or other lifting equipment. This allows for easy transportation and installation of the piling, while ensuring that it is not damaged during the lifting process.
These clamps come in various shapes and sizes, and some are designed to hold specific types of pilings, such as steel, concrete, or wood. Additionally, some pile clamps are designed to be used in conjunction with other lifting equipment, such as piling hammers or vibratory drivers, to provide a more comprehensive range of lifting options.
Explore our Camlok PP Pile Pulling Clamp here.
Closing thoughts
We hope you have enjoyed reading our definitive guide to different types of clamps. Whichever type you end up using, it’s important to get the right mechanism for your requirements – and, make sure that it is safe, reliable and durable.
Luckily, if that is what you need, Hawk Lifting provides a range of high-quality lifting clamps, ranging from vertical lifting clamps and horizontal lifting clamps to girder lifting lamps.
Alternatively, get in touch with us to discuss your individual requirements.