What Is a Clamp Used?

Most of us may be able to get by just by owning a hammer or a saw, but the same single-tool philosophy doesn’t work when it comes to clamps. That’s because there are 3 types of clamps, 5 types of clamps, and even more, each designed for specific tasks.

That’s because there is no one clamp that is versatile enough to accomplish all of our DIY clamping chores.  Fortunately, clamp comes in many different styles, sizes, and models, and as any woodworker will tell you, you can’t have too many.

Here are quicks; look at the essential clamps you need to tackle home repair and woodworking projects. Keeps in mind that you may need to purchase several types of clampings of different sizes, for example, C-clamps or spring clamps, but a miter clamp or band clamp is usually sufficient.

A clamp is a handy tool used to hold a workpiece securely in place while working. Applications for which a clamp can be used include:

Woodworking and Carpentry: A clamp can be used to hold a piece of wood to a workbench, to perform a variety of woodworking tasks, such as sawing or chasing.

Painting: A clamp can be a perfect tool for holding a workpiece steady while painting.

Metalworking: For applications such as welding, grinding, or manufacturing, a clamp is an ideal tool to use to hold metals of all types, including steel, iron, aluminum, and Copper.

Drilling: Clamps can be used to hold the workpiece firmly in place on a drill table.

Filing: The pressure of the filing will cause the workpiece to move, so a clamp is useful for this type of application.

Gluing: Clamps can be used to hold components in place while waiting for the glue to set.

How Does a Clamp Work?

The Clamps hold objects firmly in places. Whether it is using to clamp an object to a work’s surface or to hold two or more objects together, the purpose of clamps is to provide the user with a firm grip to accomplish the required task.

If a clamp has only one jaw, then the device is designed to be used in conjunction with a work surface, such as a benchtop to stabilize an object. However, if a clamp has two jaws, they will work together to hold the item.

Depending on the mechanism used, the jaws are controlled differently on different types of clamps. Some types will use a trigger mechanism, whereby the jaws are adjusted using a trigger or lever. Alternatively, some types have a conventional screw that adjusts the clamp.

When the screw is rotated, the clamps close around the workpiece, and pressures are applied to keep it firmly in place.

Types of Clamps

Here, we are looking at 38 different types of clamps which are as follows.

1. Hand Clamp

Hand clamps are devices that are operated by hand and are used to hold or hold a workpiece during assembly during any manufacturing process. Key specifications hereby include clamp type or grip range as well as clamp features with certain intended applications.

Hand clamps are generally available in a very wide variety of styles, including bar, draw, parallel, and toggle, which are used for a variety of applications such as bookbinding, picture framing, or door making, and some other construction tasks.

Clamps are mostly used with laboratory glassware which is also included here.

2. Scissor Clamp

Scissor clamps are devices that are similar to lifting clamps. This clamp is the one that exploits the load being lifted to apply the clamping load.

The clamp also provides rough clamping jaws, which helps in better digging into the part it is lifting and improves grip. The main purpose for which it is popular is picking.

3. Vertical Plate Lifting Clamp

Vertical plate lifting clamps employ reciprocating teeth that use the weight of those being lifted to apply the increased load and prevent the plate from slipping. The main purpose for which it is popular is to raise.

4. Pneumatic Power Clamp

Pneumatic power clamps are mechanical devices that use compressed air to apply a clamping load. These are the clamps that are used for production run and machinery. Pneumatic power clamp is preferred for the below reasons: it has a large production capacity, it has high speed.

5. Dimide Clamp

A Dimide clamp is a mechanical tool that is a heavy-duty metal and welding clamp and is a specialized tool used for combining speed and power through the impact of a wrench. These are tools that are designed for high torque loads and are applied by an impact wrench.

The Dimide Clamp is a fairly reliable clamp that has been found to be perfect for squeezing parts together by preventing parts slippage and removing the clamp bottleneck from the production line.

The Dimide Clamp is found to have both a removable T-handle and a hex head, which allows the clamp to be adjusted easily while fitting into tight gaps and to utilize a large number of drivers, including ratchets impact wrenches, Includes torque wrenches, breakers: bar, and much more.

Dimide clamps are preferred and used for the following reasons: High load, Fast action, Used for welding, Used for metal, Used for machining.

6. Power Clamp / Pneumatic Clamp

These are pneumatic clamps that close together in a strong and powerful way. They are often automatic, set on a timer to clamp & unclamps at specifics times.

Power clamps weres originally designed for use in the automotive industry in an effort to increase productivity and move away from manual clamps.

Power clamps are now used in many applications, including the assembly line and manufacturing industries. They save time by operating automatically and minimizing manual intervention.

They are also useful in areas where access is limited and ordinary clamps cannot reach, such as in drainage lines or remote areas.

7. C-Clamp

Known as C clamps because of their shape that resembles these capital letters, these are the most common types of clamps that come to mind when most people imagine clamps.

The ‘C’ part of the clamps goes around your work surface and the object you want to clamp, while a long screw is turned to tighten the jaws and make the clamp secure. These types of clamps are quite popular and are the standard go-to clamps for a variety of jobs.

Best of all, its simplicity and availability are unmatched, which means that most clamp collections start with a few sizes of C-clamps. In relation to the popularity of C-clamps, there are various designs that are available for a variety of job requirements.

Standard C-Clamp One of the most popular known clamps, Double anvil C-clamp for even load distribution, Quick release C-clamp for fast action, Copper coated C-clamp used to prevent weld spatter build-up does, deep reach c- clamps used for long reach,

These C-clamps are ideally used for certain jobs, which are mentioned below: Woodworking, Metalworking, Low cost.

8. Ground Clamp

Ground clamps are referred to as mechanical devices, which are used to work for grounding wires, rods, pipes, antennas, etc. The Apart from these, and it is also used for some specific tasks like welding and refueling an aircraft.

The specifications of such clamps include the intended application and material. There are different types of ground clamps available depending on the construction of the ground wire.

9. Toggle Clamp

These are relatively smalls clamp that is commonly used in metalworking, woodworking, & drilling. They have a flats bar that holds your tool in the required position & handles that can be pushed backward or forwards to loosens or tighten the grip.

This handle operates clamp and also includes pins and levers that can further increase the force of pressure.

10. Hydraulic Clamp

Hydraulic clamps are considered similar to pneumatic clamps, except for their use for hydraulic power or pressurized liquid to apply the clamping load.

11. Hose Clamp

Hose clamps are referred to as mechanical devices that are used to seal a hose to a fitting. These types of clamps are popular for irrigation or automobile hoses. These are small circular clamps made of thin metal, often aluminum, and can be tightened with a small screw.

These can be uses in a variety of applications around the home or in vehicles, usually to hold cables together or similarly sized materials.

They are an optional piece of equipment for cable ties or duct tape but have the advantage of lasting longer due to the metal construction. Hose clamps are ideal for some of the tasks below: Pipe Fittings.

12. Wire Rope Clamp

These are a specialists’ type of clamp that won’t be easily found in hardware stores, and you mays need to order online or finds an expert stockist if you need it. These are also knowns as wire rope clips, & their purpose is to fix a loose piece of wire rope back to the rope itself.

They are made of a metal saddle and a few bolts that hold everything together. The bolts will tighten or loosen the clamp’s grip. While these clamps are useful for their specifics purposes, they have very few other uses and are not versatile.

13. Marman Clamp

It is a piece of metal with a circular shape (like a band) with a gap where the bolt is fixed to be able to loosen or tighten the clamp.

These are ideally used to hold two pipes or cylinders together, and the handy bracket makes it good for quickly releasing items. This band clamp type is a sturdier clamp that is often used when working with fuel lines in aircraft.

14. Locking Clamp

A locking clamp is a mixture between pliers and a C-clamp. It has a C-shaped jaw and clamps and tightens the workpiece by applying pressure to the lever.

15. Material Handling Clamp

Material Handling Clamps are referred to as those clamping tools which are used to hold heavy material which is usually lifted or manipulated. Key characteristics of this type of equipment include certain intended applications such as load capacity and the orientation of the clamping action.

This type of clamping tool is primarily used in construction applications for lifting or manipulating large loads. Commonly found types of tools used for lifting loads such as rails, girders, pipes, etc., and also used in factories and foundries.

16. Mechanical Clamp

Mechanical clamps, sometimes referred to as aclamp, are devices used to hold hoses or tubes in place at the ends of pipe spuds.

The specifications of such clamps include the type of clamp, diameter, and material. These devices, also called hose clamps, are also used in places where a flexible fluid connection is required.

For an instant, within the inlet spud of an auto engine’s water pump and radiator. These are made in a variety of sizes and materials, which include metal or plastic depending on the application, which can be designed as single-use or reusable devices.

17. Pipe Clamp

As the name suggests, a pipe clamp has specific features designed for use with the pipe. They are also knowns as gluing clamps because they’re primarily used to hold objects in place for gluing. They often resemble a typical iron pipe with one fixed jaw and an adjustable clamp face.

They work similarly to sash clamps, but they have a cylindrically shaped shaft instead of a flat bar. Pipe clamps are mechanical devices used to hang or secure pipes. Specifications of such clamps include applications such as clamp type and pipe diameter.

Pipe clamps are commonly used in piping and plumbing applications for the purpose of hanging a variety of pipes. These clamps can also be for the exhaust pipe, guard rail, and conduit, among others.

It is surprising to know that these tools are available in a variety of styles and sizes, which include a variety of materials depending on the type of pipe that needs to be hung.

Pipe Clamps are ideally used for certain jobs, which are mentioned below:- Woodworking, Welding, Metalworking, Found with large opening capacity.

18. F-Clamp

F-clamps are types of mechanical devices designed to have a wide opening capacity. A slider bar is found in these clamps, which allows opening capacity that can be easily adjusted to satisfy wides ranges of applications.

This feature of the F-clamp has made it a very popular clamp and is the reason it is used when the opening capacity of the C-clamp is very small.

These C-clamps are ideally used for certain jobs, which are mentioned below: Woodworking, Welding, Metalworking, Found with large opening capacity.

19. Spring Clamp

These clamps are handheld clamps that are operated by means of a tension spring. They are very strong, & once positioned in place; the spring ensures that they hold tight and will not move, giving the user a firm, secure grip.

These clamps can be found in many sizes to suit an array of different projects. They are made of metal and usually have a PVC covering on the handle portion and tips to prevent injury during use. They can be useful in Carpentry, jewelry makings, & many other crafts.

Spring clamps are one of the fastest and most economical mechanical tools. At the same time, these are one that gives little clamp load and has very limited opening capacity.

It is responsible for making the tarp most ideal for holding down or stopping motion in an axle that is not receiving any load. Spring clamps are used where: woodworking is carried out to accelerate the work affordably.

20. Sash Clamp

A sash clamp is a large clamp suitable for working on large projects, such as windows or doors. In fact, the name sash clamps refer to the fact that these clamps are commonly used to hold sash windows.

These clamps have long bars that are designed to hold large objects tightly. You will usually use at least two sash clamps at a time to get a really good fit.

There is a fixed jaw on the long bar that can be loosened or tightened with a screw. They also have sliding jaws that can be moved along the length of the flat bar to secure the project at various points.

Sash clamps are mechanical devices similar to parallel clamps. Sash Clamps are used for some of the following tasks: Woodworking, Large assembly.

21. Quick Action Clamp

 

These types of clamps can be operated with only one hand, which makes them very convenient to work with. This feature enables you to hold the clamp, as wells as the item you need clamping.

It has a fasts releases button that can be switched on with a single finger, allowing for extra fast movement. These types of clamps are very strong and can be used in a variety of situations.

This is one of the most versatile & hassle-free hand-operated clamps. Quick-Grip or Quick Action clamps are one of the most popular types of clamps used in today’s market.

These clamps are used to tighten with one hand by pumping the push handle. These devices are very similar to F-clamps with varying clamp opening capabilities.

These quick-action clamps are ideally used for certain jobs, which are mentioned below: Speeding up work, Single handling, woodworking.

22. Locking Chain Clamp

A locking chain clamp is a mechanical device used to apply clamp loads in tight spaces or around pipes, or near any other surface. The chain is used to fasten the various shapes by wrapping them around the object to apply pressure whenever the chain is tightened.

These Locking Chain Clamps are ideally used for certain jobs, which are mentioned below: Metalworking, Sharpening work, One-handed, Variant size.

23 Sheet Metal Clamp

Sheet metal clamps are clamps similar to locking clamps. The only difference is that they have a larger surface area on the clamp jaws which is responsible for making them ideal for clamping sheet metal and similar materials. Ideal for: Sheet metal, Metalworking, Sharpening work, One-hand.

24. Cabinetry Clamp

Cabinetry clamps are referred to as alignments that have two adjacent cabinets so that the face frames are flush so that you can screw them together, which is achieved by applying a clamp load across the two axes. Cabinetry clamps are ideal for some of the jobs below: Woodworking.

25. Table Clamp

Table clamps are typically used together with a welding table used for welding assemblies, allowing single-handed clamping with speed. Table clamps are ideal for some of the jobs below: Welding Assembly.

26. Kant-Twist Clamp

It is a small but clever tool that is ideal for holding a wide range of materials in many situations, but it is especially useful in wood and metalworking.

A Kant twist clamp is similar to a ‘C’ clamp but is set at an angle so that it can hold material that does not run parallels to each other. These clamps are easy to use but offer a wide range of motion and are very strong and sturdy.

Fork-twist clamps are the preferred clamp of many machine shops and welders because it saves loads by using two parallel jaws and preventing the jaws from moving.

Positions of the handle with respect to the clamp load are kept vertical, which also prevents the clamp from turning while tightening. These thorn-twist clamps are ideally used for certain jobs, which are mentioned below: Welding, Metalworking, Machining, Woodworking.

27. Wooden Hand Screw Clamp

Wood hand screw clamps are one of the most traditional woodworking clamps, with jaw pivots that allow the clamp to be at different angles.

These types of clamps are commons when working with metal, & they are greats for fixings pieces of furniture. They have jaws that are adjustable and are able to hold objects even at irregular angles.

These clamps are usually very heavy-duty, made from steel. This makes them strong and long-lasting. These Wood Hand Screw Clamps are ideally used for few jobs, which are mentioned below: Woodworking.

28. Bench Clamp

Bench clamps are those that are used to screw down the work table. These types of clamps allow quick clamping of an assembly and are ideal for use with wooden tables through the use of attachment accessories.

Bench clamps are used to hold objects in place on the bench and are common in woodworking. With these clamps, the bench itself replaces the jaws of the clamp.

This woodworking clamp is ideal for fixing wood during cutting, drilling, or planning. Some of these bench clamps are used for the following tasks: assembling, woodworking, welding.

29. Miter Clamp

Miter clamps are referred to as those that are ideal for assemblies to join corners together. Milter Clamps are ideal for some of the jobs below: Woodworking, Assembly.

30. Picture Frame Clamp

Picture frame clamps are mechanical devices that are ideal for attaching together rectangular assemblies such as picture frames, table supports, window frames, etc. Picture frame clamps are ideal for some of the tasks below: woodworking, assembly.

31. Edge Clamp

Edge clamps are referred to as those that can control their position in two axes using three separate screws. This makes the clamp ideal for holding down parts of a butt-weld or gluing to an assembly. Edge clamps are ideal for some of the tasks below: Welding, Woodworking.

32. Web Clamp

This clamp is commonly used in furniture making and woodworking. They use a cord or fabric belt that is tied around an object and then locks the solid corners in place.

The belts can be tightened with a ratchet. These clamps are useful for fixing yourself tightly to a large object, then loading it onto a truck, or for holding it in place during work.

Web clamps are one of the best clamps that are suitable for awkward shapes. These corners are used to lock the bands that apply a load to the assembly.

These clamps are mostly used for the woodworking of furniture. Web clamps are ideal for some of the jobs below: Woodworking, Transportation Hold Down.

33. Beam Clamp

Beam clamps are mechanical devices used for lifting steel beams and plates. The main purpose for which it is popular is picking.

34. Trigger Clamp

These are versatile clamps that are sometimes referred to as a one-handed clamp because they can be used with one hand. It is easy to operate, strong & reliable, & can be commonly found in workshops, as well as around homes & gardens, and in various hobby toolboxes.

It has trigger mechanisms that can adjust the jaws. The trigger is controlled by either a button or a lever, meaning the clamp can be released quickly and easily.

35. Speed Clamp

This clamp is also known as bars clamps or ‘F’ clamp because it uses a long flat bar & looks like an ‘F’ shape. This clamp is commonly used in woodworking and metalwork, typically to hold two materials together while they are glued, screwed, or welded in place.

This is works in much the same way as the ‘C’ clamp, but they have a larger jaw and, therefore, have a much greater ability to hold larger objects. These types of clamps are tightened by screws & loosened by reversing the action.

36. Screw Clamp

These clamps have two handles that can be tightened or loosened by screwing through the threads. They provide a very strong grip and are commonly used in woodworking or metalworking.

37. Parallel Clamp

A parallel clamp with one-handed triggers pressurizes the clamped material by two parallel vertical jaws. It is commonly used to fix workpieces on large surfaces such as tabletops, doors.

38. Corner Clamp

If you want to secure the joints of two workpieces at a 90-degree angle, there is no better clamp than a corner clamp. It is intended for use for corner joints, so it cannot be fitted for other general clamp use.

FAQs About Clamps

What Is the Primary Purpose of a Clamp?

A clamp is used to hold a workpiece securely in place during various tasks such as woodworking, metalworking, or painting. It ensures stability and accuracy while working on the piece.

What Are the Most Common Types of Clamps?

The most common types include C-clamps, F-clamps, spring clamps, pipe clamps, and toggle clamps. Each type is designed for specific applications and tasks.

How Do C-Clamps Differ from F-Clamps?

C-clamps have a C-shaped frame and are generally used for small to medium-sized tasks. F-clamps have a longer bar and a larger opening capacity, making them suitable for larger projects and more versatile applications.

When Should I Use a Spring Clamp?

Spring clamps are ideal for quick, temporary holding of materials. They are often used for light-duty tasks where a strong, constant hold is not required, such as in crafts or light woodworking.

How Does a Pneumatic Clamp Work?

Pneumatic clamps use compressed air to apply clamping force. They are typically used in industrial and production settings for their speed and efficiency in handling repetitive clamping tasks.

What Is a Parallel Clamp, and When Should It Be Used?

A parallel clamp features two parallel jaws that provide a uniform clamping force. It is ideal for holding large workpieces or assemblies flat and parallel, such as in woodworking and cabinetry.

Can I Use a Pipe Clamp for Gluing Projects?

Yes, pipe clamps are often used in woodworking for gluing projects. They provide a strong, even pressure along the length of the workpiece, making them suitable for holding panels or boards together during glue-up.

What Is the Difference Between a Locking Clamp and a Regular Hand Clamp?

Locking clamps have a mechanism that locks the jaws in place, providing a firm grip that cannot be adjusted unless released. Regular hand clamps, on the other hand, require manual adjustment to tighten or loosen the grip.

How Do I Choose the Right Clamp for My Project?

Consider the size and type of the workpiece, the clamping force required, and the specific application. For larger projects, F-clamps or pipe clamps might be more suitable, while smaller tasks might be handled by C-clamps or spring clamps.

Are There Clamps Specifically Designed for Metalworking?

Yes, clamps like C-clamps, pipe clamps, and specialized metalworking clamps are designed to handle the demands of metalworking, including high clamping force and durability.

What Should I Look for When Buying a Clamp?

When buying a clamp, consider its material, size, clamping range, and the specific features needed for your tasks. Ensure that it is durable and suited to the type of work you plan to do.

How Do I Maintain and Care for My Clamps?

Keep clamps clean and free from rust or debris. Regularly check for any damage or wear, and lubricate moving parts if necessary. Proper storage will also help extend the life of your clamps.