Hose clamp buying guide

Hose clamps can be used to secure a hose to a barbed outlet of the same diameter for low pressure applications of up to 16 bar. The hose clamp mustn't be too slack nor too tight.

The most common applications for hose clamps are in domestic, mechanical, chemical or automative settings. These types of clamps have existed for over a century but with the introduction of various standards are now categorised by material type and resistance to corrosion.

From O clips and embossed bands to double wire and quick release clamps, to there are countless types of hose clamp on the market.

Hose clamp components

Hose clamps are known as a few different things including Jubilee clips (the original trademarked name) and hose clips. Due to the fact that the traditional Jubilee clip has fairly limited clamping power, many manufacturers have worked to improve the design of their clamping systems and offer a few different types. The results speak for themselves with a wide range of cleverly crafted clamps now available. That said, the basic clamping system is always made up of three parts:

• a band;

• a screw case;

• a screw.

It's always a good idea to have an assortment of different hose clamps on hand in your shed or workshop to deal with things like leaks. However, if you want a hose clamp for a permanent connection, you'll need to think about a range of factors including clamping diameter, fluid type, temperature and pressure ratings. Only once you have identified these requirements, you can choose between:

• embossed band hose clamps;

• perforated band hose clamps;

• double wire hose clamps;

• T-bolt hose clamps;

• single or double ear O clips;

• quick release hose clamps;

• air hose clamps.

All of these models can be galvanised, zinc-plated, cadmium-plated or made of stainless steel.

Embossed band hose clamps

Embossed band hose clamps are mass produced clamps and can be used for a range of purposes. The band of this type of clamp features an embossed drive that guides a worm screw. This crimped worm drive can be on the inside or outside of the band. The other side of the band is usually smooth with rounded edges to prevent hose damage. The wider the band, the greater the clamping force.

The design of non-perforated embossed bands is ideal for providing leak-proof connections with barbed fittings without applying too much clamping force. It is possible to use two hose clamps for extra security. These hose clamps can be found in the automotive industry, but are usually used in household settings for common tasks like clamping plumbing lines. Be sure to check that the outlet features a barb or nipple fitting as this prevents slipping. If you ever have any doubts while making your connection, turn off the water or air supply to prevent accidents.

Perforated band hose clamps

Perforated band clamps are among the most common hose clamps available and also feature worm drives. These clamps can be hit or miss. However, a high-quality clamp will offer easy tightening without the risk of breakage or slipping. Perforated band clamps are often found in standard hose clamp sets and are ideal for fixing washing machines, dishwashers and fitting hoses to hose reels.

Single or double wire hose clamps

Single or double wire hose clamps can be used to secure and seal semi-rigid, threaded or spiral reinforced hoses for leak-proof connections. Many automotive hoses are held in place by double wire spring hose clamps. It is imperative to match the diameter of these clamps to the hose. These clamps are also ideal for large diameter applications such as ducting.

T bolt hose clamps

T bolt hose clamps feature a solid band with two welded screw cases used to house a T bolt and locking nut. These clamps have a limited clamping range so it's important to use the correct clamp diameter. They are suitable for household and automotive applications.

Single or double ear O clips

Single or double ear O clips can be used to create permanent and secure connections. It is essential that you choose the right clamping diameter for the hose you want to clamp. Special pliers called hose clamp pliers are used to pinch the ear or ears, and set the clamp in place permanently. Failing that, you can always use a pair of pliers with blunted ends. These clamps then need to be cut for removal.

Quick release hose clamps

If you need to be able to disconnect a hose or duct regularly, a quick locking hose clamp will work well. The clamping force can be adjusted by tightening or loosening a tilting head locking mechanism. Once again, it is important to select the right clamping diameter. Another variation of quick release clamps is a turn key hose clamp which can be removed without the use of tools.

Air hose or double bolt clamps

This type of hose clamp is made up of two cadmium-plated metal half clamps held together by two screws. The inner part of the clamp is designed to secure claw couplings, also known as Mody couplings, which are often used in compressed air applications. This system means the hose cannot be pulled out. These clamps are used for compressed air hoses to connected air tools like jackhammers, grinders and air blasting machines to air compressors. They can also be used for high pressure water lines.

Pipe repair clamps

If you are unable to cut off the water in case of a leak, you can use a pipe repair clamp to temporarily seal a hose or even a rigid pipe. These clamps feature a wide band that is tightened around the pipe using two cadmium-plated bolts. This provides an emergency solution while you organise proper repairs.

Hose clamps are divided into six categories according to the standard DIN 3014. These categories range from W1 to W5 depending on the material of their components including the band, screw case, spigot and screw.

Category

Stainless steel corrosion resistance

To give a concrete idea of how hose clamps stand up to corrosion, they are placed in a salt spray chamber. The salt spray test provides harsh conditions to define how long stainless steel is able to resist corrosion.

As a rough guide, a W1-grade hose clamp with a W2 screw will corrode within 72 hours while a W5 clamp will last around five to six times longer at approximately 400 hours.

With this in mind, it is essential to check the W grade of your hose clamp before purchasing. This way it is easy to find out whether your hose clamp is likely to rust or not, depending on your intended application. For marine use, you shouldn't look for anything less than W5!

It is essential to use a hose clamp that is strong enough to hold a pressurised hose or pipe without any risk of leaks.

Beyond 10 bar of pressure – which is already high – you'll need to think carefully about the situation and ask yourself if your hose clamp is suitable for the application. You may find yourself having to deal with corrosive, hot or even dangerous fluids. Do not hesitate to double up if needed.

barbs or a nipple to prevent the hose from slipping. For any pressure over 10 bar, or for use with any dangerous chemicals, use a crimped connection instead. Connecting a hose to any device or vessel containing high-risk products is hazardous and requires careful thought.

Other types of clamps

The following products will often be found alongside hose clamps:

• hose clamp banding kits supplied by the metre. Simply cut the perforated band to size then use the screws and screw cases provided to create your own hose clamps for a handy quick-fix solution;

• perforated mounting tape, also supplied by the metre, is practical for supporting pipework within reasonable weight limits;

• galvanised pipe clamps can be used to support pipework, guttering and waste pipes. They can feature rubber lining to protect and insulate pipes;

• Rilsan and Colson cable clamps are well known in the world of electrics and electronics. They are quick and easy to use, but do require the use of a special tool (known as Rilsan clamping pliers). Special Rilsan wall plugs and adhesive pads can also be used to clamp and secure your cables.