How to choose pipe clamps for industrial uses
The use of piping clamps in industrial applications is essential to ensure the stability and safety of pipes. They prevent undesirable movement and reduce the risk of leaks and damage. However, choosing the most suitable ones can be complicated, as there are different types, sizes and materials available on the market.
What are piping clamps?
Pipe clamps are used to hold and support pipes of various materials and sizes, whether vertical or horizontal, or attached to a wall or ceiling. They are designed to prevent pipes from slipping or loosening, providing stability and support in plumbing installations, piping systems and other projects involving pipes.
They are usually made of durable materials such as steel, aluminum or plastic and can be adjusted and fastened by means of screws, nuts or straps. Clamps usually have three distinct parts: the clamping band, the housing and the tightening screw.
Types and uses of clamps for industrial use
Clamps can be used to support pipes of very different characteristics. For this reason, there are many different types. In general, based on their holding power, we can classify them into:
Low-pressure clamps
These are usually the most economical and the simplest, and also have the least grasping strength. Because of this, they need to be checked and replaced on a regular basis to avoid breakage or problems. Therefore, they are not very common in industry.
Medium-pressure clamps
These are some of the most common clamps on the market and perhaps what one could think of as the classic clamp. One of the most common is usually called a tape or strap clamp, with a flexible metal band with multiple perforations which exerts pressure on the pipe. It holds the pipes in place more strongly than a low-pressure clamp.
High-pressure clamps
These are the strongest and safest clamps. They have a design that makes it possible to disassemble and move them without unduly manipulating the pipe. In this category we find Supra clamps, which have strong, easy-to-tighten hexagonal screws, and the pressure they exert is distributed evenly over the surface of the piece they are holding. For these reasons, they are the most widely used in industry, since they provide a tight hold that prevents breakage, leaks and slippage.
What factors should be taken into account when choosing a clamp?
Once the types of clamps are classified according to their holding strength, and high-pressure clamps are chosen as the most suitable for industry, it is essential to consider a number of factors before choosing a particular model.
Maximum load
Clamps undergo load safety tests to determine the maximum loads they can carry. It is important to keep these in mind and choose the right one — otherwise the part may not hold firmly, causing problems that could become serious.
Temperature
The temperature of the fluids circulating through the pipes can dilate them, so this factor needs to be considered before choosing a particular clamp. The temperatures they can withstand normally run in the range of –30° to 120°C.
Size
The size of the clamp must be appropriate to the diameter of the pipe. Also, depending on the liquid circulating inside the pipe and its temperature, the pipe will expand more or less. The clamp has to allow the pipe to slide without breaking due to excessive pressure.
Piping material
Pipes can be made of many different materials, each with its own specific resistance to heat, chemicals and environmental conditions. For this reason, pipe composition is an important consideration before choosing one clamp or another, as there are different ones suitable for plastic versus copper pipes, for example.
Environment
Installing a clamp in an indoor environment is not the same as installing it in an outdoor environment — the conditions of use are quite different. For example, for an outdoor environment, it would be necessary to opt for a piece that resists corrosion.
Special requirements
Special requirements may also exist, such as the need for quick installation and removal, or sound insulation. For example, there are coated, double-threaded clamps that are suitable for sound insulation.
If you are looking for the best industrial materials for your project, please do consult the wide range of products we have at ULMA Forged Solutions. Our strong commitment to quality means we use first-rate manufacturing processes that guarantee the durability and strength of our products. In addition, we have a team of highly trained experts who will be happy to help, and can advise you on all your needs.