Screw clamps - quiet heroes in the trade

Whether for gluing workpieces, pre-tensioning during welding, fixing during machining (drilling, milling, etc.) or for a wide range of applications where a quiet helper is needed as a third, fourth or even fifth reliable hand – Here comes our silent yet reliable hero, the screw clamp to their use!

To pay tribute to this inconspicuous helper, we take the time to take a closer look at this all-rounder:

What are screw clamps used for?

Basically, the use can be divided into three points: connecting, fixing and pressing.

The clamp can perform all three tasks both over short periods of time (e.g. gluing, fixing during drilling) or, in some cases, as a long-term fixing aid (e.g. securing a vice to a workbench).

Due to the good mechanical controllability of the pressure, it can also be used for pre-tensioning during welding (tightened tightly) to prevent the metal from “warping”, but also in wood and model making (tightened lightly or with sensitivity).

What types of screw clamps are there?

Over the decades, a veritable smorgasbord of clamps has accumulated, here are the 3 most common:

• Malleable cast iron screw clamp: Mainly found in the woodworking sector, but can also be used in steel construction, with high rigidity, as well as insensitive to vibrations, rather inelastic
• All-steel screw clamp: Mainly used in steel construction, as it is slightly springy and elastic, it can absorb vibrations better, but can also amplify vibrations
• Deep clamp: With large, protruding jaws, for larger workpieces, sets the contact pressure further away from the workpiece edge, protruding jaws, but somewhat unwieldy

How does a screw clamp work?

In principle it is relatively simple: the upper clamping arm of the clamp is usually fixed, while the lower one can move freely on a rail.

Below the movable arm is a spindle, which is moved upwards using mechanical pressure to secure it in place. The fixed arm is first placed against the workpiece.

The movable clamping arm is pressed against the rail and tilts itself when it reaches the workpiece.

In order to distribute the contact pressure, for example when gluing, pressure plates can be used to distribute this pressure.

How do you use the screw clamp correctly?

Before you use this tool, you should consider which screw clamp is best suited for the job you want to do.

This decision should also be made taking into account the size and type of clamp.

Smaller screw clamps understandably do not build up the contact pressure and therefore strength as larger ones, and you should also keep an eye on the desired clamping depth.

When used in professional areas, in industry, commerce, etc., clamps should provide reliable service for years, so we recommend that you pay particular attention to the quality of workmanship and the steel grade.

Please also note that large and high-quality clamps can often produce unexpectedly high contact pressure, so use pressure distribution plates or test them on a sample beforehand.

We hope we have brought you a little closer to our silent heroes and everyday helpers.
The Right Tools Team wishes you lots of fun with your crafts and DIY projects!