A guide to pipe clamps - Zhiang

Pipe clips, as they're also called, are typically used in plumbing, heating, drainage and electrical applications and come in a range of different materials. They're also sometimes referred to as pipe clamp brackets, but brackets can also be part of the fixing system, such as pipe support brackets. In this article we cover:

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Pipe clamps are supports for suspended pipes, whether vertical or horizontal. They shouldn't be confused with pipe fasteners, which join two pipes together. The job of pipe clamps is to securely hold pipes, while allowing for any movement or expansion to enable the application's maximum performance.

The main pipe clamp types have their own subset of clamps. They&#;re first affixed to a wall, ceiling or support base before securing the pipe.

This term simply refers to the components that will work together to support pipes. The system can include clips and clamps, pipe hangers, screws or bolts, anchors, struts and anything else you plan to use. These components are also called pipe clamp fittings. Your system should:

Also called pipe screw clamps, these come in two halves and are secured with two screws or bolts on either side of the clamp. Single-screw standard clamps are also available for faster installation. Typically, standard clamps come in steel. The single-screw variety feature a rubber lining that isolates vibration and provides sound insulation. Styles can also vary. Standard pipe clamp dimensions come in a wide range of sizes, so you should find something to suit your needs.

Metal can crack or break plastic pipes if secured too tightly, while plastic provides a softer hold. This makes plastic ideal for softer metals, such as copper plumbing. Plastic clamps and clips work well when pipes are thin and somewhat fragile, or when it&#;s carrying gas or another lightweight load. With this type, the pipe is put through the clamp and the arm is closed over it. These are also typically quick-release pipe clamps.

Saddle clamp pipe supports, as shown here, half saddle pipe clamps and U-bolts are traditional clamps that hold steel or copper pipes. Saddles transfer the weight of the pipe to a supporting base. They&#;re best used when issues such as vibration and insulation aren&#;t a factor. U-Bolts and other pipe clamp U types are typically used to elevate pipes and are secured to beams and ceilings.

Designed to support heavy loads and are used both indoors and outdoors. These tend to come in two parts with locking bolts. They&#;re usually made of steel and some are also lined to reduce noise and isolate sound.

You can sometimes use other components as pipe brackets and pipe hanging systems, particularly in the building and service industry.

Cable ties are ideal for fixing insulation to pipes or working in conjunction with pipe clips, but they can also support the pipes themselves with the aid of cable tie mounts . These are self-locking and easily installed by hand. They are resistant to extreme temperatures and offer great strength and durability. Another good option is strap and buckle cable ties , which has a tensile strength of 350 lbs.

The rubber profile isolates vibration and noise. The steel is zinc plated for corrosion resistance. P-clamps, which are typically used for hose and cable bundles, can serve as small pipe clamps to support lightweight loads. Ideal as an electrical pipe support.

Wherever pipes are used, clamps or their alternatives are needed. One clamp can usually work across all applications. We say &#;usually&#; because what counts is the diameter of the pipe and the environment where the clamp will go. The table below is a guide to what clamp types are most commonly used for the application.

Choosing the right clamps involves considering the material. That choice will be dictated by the material of the pipe. Metals are best at tolerating high temperatures, but connecting different metals to each other will cause galvanic corrosion.

For example, don&#;t use a stainless-steel clamp on a copper pipe. Contact between these two dissimilar metals causes a reaction. There is no universal agreement as to which metal causes the corrosion, but that it happens is a fact.

Plastic hose clamps

Brass pipe clips with stainless steel pipes

Or, stainless steel clips with brass pipes &#; what we&#;re talking about here is how the metals react. Some stainless steels can work with brass. It depends on the grade of the stainless steel. These are the grades that tend to work well with brass:

301

304

310

You can learn more about this topic in Understanding stainless steel grades.

Brass pipe clamps add an aesthetic touch, but they&#;re also corrosion resistant, which makes them a good choice for exposed pipes.

Stainless steel famously resists corrosion. It also offers excellent wear resistance. Do not use stainless steel with carbon steel, as this will cause galvanic corrosion. If you&#;re planning on using it with brass pipes, see the subsection above, Brass pipe clips with stainless steel pipes.

Copper pipe clips

You already know you shouldn&#;t use copper with any stainless steels. Copper pipe clips are best used with plastic or domestic copper pipes. Like brass, copper won&#;t corrode, and they&#;re an appealing option if aesthetics are relevant.

Steel pipe clamps

Corrosion is a fact of life, but you can slow it down. Most steel clamps are zinc plated to resist corrosion. These clamps are ideal for steel tubes, cast-iron tubes and for use with insulated pipe supports. Steel clamps have a hard grip on pipes, so if you need flexibility, consider another material for your clamp. These clamps often use threaded rod, a component you can learn more about in our Guide to threaded rods.

Plastic pipe clamps

Ideal when your pipes need a degree of flexibility, as needed when movement or expansion occurs due to heat or cold. These clamps come in a range of plastics, from nylon 6/6 to PVC. Of course, PVC pipe is used the world over, and a plastic clamp is ideal, as it provides a softer grip.

Pipe clamp

For clamps used to hold pipes and hoses together, see hose clamp

A short pipe clamp

A pipe clamp is a type of clamp often employed in woodworking, piping or cabinet shops. When referring to woodwork or cabinet shops, pipe clamps are usually composed of commercially manufactured clamp heads or "jaws" and a length of common threaded pipe. The capacity of the clamp is determined by the length of the pipe used. When referring to piping, pipe clamps are used to connect the pipe to the pipe hanger assembly.

Description

In woodwork, a pipe clamp uses clamp heads produced commercially by numerous manufacturers. They are available in various diameter sizes, commonly ½&#;or ¾&#;, suited to the same diameter piping. The pipe is usually threaded on both ends. One head is fixed on the pipe by spinning it onto standard pipe threads. This head includes the screw mechanism for tightening the clamp. The other, movable, head slides onto the other end of the pipe. This head has a mechanism, often a series of movable &#;clutches&#; which allow it to slide along the pipe when setting up the clamping operation but which lock onto the pipe when clamping pressure is applied.

Pipe clamps serve a similar purpose to bar clamps but are generally less expensive to purchase and have a versatility derived from the ability to use a variety of lengths of pipe to suit one's needs. The same clamp heads might be switched over from a two-foot length of pipe to a twelve-foot length as the project at hand dictates. Having threads at both ends of the pipe also allows the use of pipe couplings, joining two lengths of pipe to extend the length of the clamp.

In piping, a pipe clamp is a bottled attachment that clamps around the pipe. The clamps can be manufactured with black or galvanized finishes.

Uses

Pipe clamps being used to glue up a wooden lamination

A common use of pipe clamps in woodworking is for edge gluing; several boards being joined edge to edge to produce a wider surface such as a table top or cabinet components. In this case several pipe clamps will be set up on the workbench so that clamping pressure can be applied evenly along the length of the boards being joined. Pipe clamps can be used to assemble the four sides of boxes or cabinets.

As with most other forms of clamps, a wide variety of uses might be found.

Pipe clamp tips and tricks for the woodshop

Woodworking is not an inexpensive endeavor. As such, anything to reduce costs while still maintaining quality is a welcome addition to any workshop. The mighty pipe clamp is often underrated and dismissed, yet it&#;s a cost-effective tool, especially when considering its versatility. The main reason many woodworkers dismiss pipe clamps is their tendency to bow when put under tension. I think that if your joinery needs that much force to be brought together, then maybe there is another problem. But that&#;s a topic for another blog post.

For light to medium duty, pipe clamps are supertastic.  

Recently, I needed to clamp two pieces of 5×5 Baltic birch together, meaning I needed a clamp that had a 10-ft. capacity. No problem; a piece of 10-ft. pipe, plus a connector and a second short piece of pipe to make up for the space the clamp heads take, and I&#;m in business. A few months prior I had to glue some solid-wood edging onto a rectangular, veneered tabletop. The short dimension was 42 in., the long was 99 in.&#;again no problem for the pipe clamp.

So we&#;ve established that pipe clamps are a great solution when clamping very large things, but they can do so much more. Below are a few tips, tricks, and reasons why you should have a few pipe clamps in your arsenal. 

Use connectors to make super-long clamps.Buy 10-ft. lengths of pipe and have them cut and threaded at the store. In my area, a 10-ft. piece of galvanized pipe is about $20. My local hardware store will cut and thread the ends for free. This makes short clamps very inexpensive.

Build a pipe clamp glue up station

A 1 1/8-in. drill bit is a friend to your pipe clamps. Drill a series of holes in a piece of scrap and cut it in half. This makes for a great glue-up station.

Homasote makes great clamping pads

Homasote is a great clamping pad, drill a 1 1/8-in. hole and attach it with some hot melt glue and you have a great non-marring clamp. Homasote is a building product, typically sold in the drywall section, used to reduce noise in a house. Its squishy, fibrous nature makes for a clamping pad of the right density.

Black pipe or galvanized&#;they both work

zhiang contains other products and information you need, so please check it out.

I like galvanized pipe vs black pipe. It costs a couple more bucks but it won&#;t leave a stain where the wood, pipe, and glue come together.

Paste wax protects you pipe clamps

Wax your pipes to keep glue from sticking and help the movable end of the clamp work smoothly.

New clamps pipe clamps vs. vintage pipe clamps

I like the old-style ends that have a lever. They work great and I find them easy to adjust. I don&#;t think they are made any more, but I haven&#;t had trouble finding them on eBay and local classifieds. I have bought a few of this newer style, and they work great but are a little harder to adjust. When shopping used, I keep the price between $5 and $10 per set. I think that is a great deal for the older versions. Combine that with $5 worth of pipe and you have yourself a pretty darn nice clamp.

I consider pipe clamps as just one of a few different types of clamps needed in a wood shop. Buy a few and try them out. If you&#;re already a fan of the mighty pipe clamp, hopefully I was able to share a tip or two you hadn&#;t heard before. Thank you for reading.

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Utilizing the right pipe hanger is essential for ensuring the stability and integrity of piping systems. Pipe hangers provide support and help prevent damage, and several important elements need to be considered when selecting the most suitable option. The factors that impact pipe system performance include the environment in which it is installed and the particular requirements of the system.

This article will outline the key considerations to keep in mind when choosing a pipe hanger for your project.

What is a Pipe Hanger?

Pipe hangers are hardware used in construction and plumbing to steady and support pipes. They help align, reduce vibration, and prevent sagging by suspending pipes from walls or ceilings. Pipe hangers are versatile and can support different pipe materials, including PVC, copper, and steel. They come in different designs and sizes to fit various pipe sizes, applications, and load capacities.

1. Clevis Hangers

A Clevis hanger is used to support horizontal pipe runs in a variety of different applications. It&#;s designed to enable the efficient suspension of piping in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, among other utilities.

The Clevis hanger is comprised of a clevis and a U-bolt. The clevis wraps around the pipe, while the U-bolt fits over it. The two parts are secured with nuts for hanging the pipe at an adjustable height and angle, which is one of the benefits of using a clevis hanger.

2. Riser Clamps

Riser clamps are specifically designed to support vertical piping. They clamp onto the pipe and allow the pipe&#;s weight to be carried across a larger area. They are often used in building and industrial applications where vertical pipes need to be secured and supported, especially when running through multiple floor and ceiling levels.

A riser clamp works by transferring the load of the pipe to the building structure. It encircles the pipe and is tightened to hold the pipe securely. The lower part of the clamp, which is flat, rests on the upper surface of the structural member (like a floor or a beam). The upper part of the clamp grips the pipe to prevent it from moving downward.

3. Sliding Saddles

A Sliding saddle is a type of pipe support designed to manage both the weight of the pipe, and any movement from thermal expansion and contraction. It consists of two main parts: the saddle and a base that it can slide on. The saddle is shaped to fit the contour of the pipe, and distribute its weight over a larger area to reduce the pressure on any single point.

The sliding base underneath the saddle is typically constructed of two plates of material, often metal, with low friction between them. One plate is fixed, and the other is connected to the saddle, and can slide on the fixed plate.

4. J-Hangers

J-Hangers are ideal for light loads and can be easily attached to structural members with a rod or fastener. The J-shaped design provides superior support for piping systems. J-hangers are often used for light-duty applications, particularly with smaller diameter pipes such as those used in residential or light commercial plumbing.

One end of the J-hanger is typically attached to a structure such as a wall or ceiling using screws or other fasteners, while the curved portion of the J provides support for the pipe. The design allows the pipe to be easily inserted and removed from the hanger, which makes it a flexible choice for installations where adjustments may be needed.

5. Band Hangers

Band hangers are brackets that support insulated or non-insulated pipes from overhead and allow for vertical adjustment. They are frequently utilized in fire safety sprinkler systems to suspend and join piping. Band hangers are used in commercial buildings and large multi-family complexes due to their lightweight design and lower costs.

6. Spring Hangers

Spring hangers are used for supporting piping systems that undergo significant vertical movement due to thermal expansion contraction, vibrations, or other dynamic forces.

Spring hangers consist of a spring mechanism that allows the pipe to move while still providing support. The spring mechanism can either be variable spring hangers or constant spring hangers, depending on the application:

Variable Spring Hangers

Variable spring hangers work on the principle that the support load remains relatively constant while the pipe moves. As the pipe moves due to thermal expansion or contraction, the spring compresses or expands to accommodate the movement to maintain the support.

Constant Spring Hangers

Constant spring hangers maintain a nearly constant supporting force over the entire travel range of the support. This is usually accomplished by a mechanical system within the support that compensates for the changing spring force as the hanger moves.

Constant spring hangers are typically used in situations where a variation in the force supporting the pipe could cause problems, such as damage to the pipe or connected equipment.

7. Split Ring Hangers

Split ring hangers are a type of pipe hanger used to suspend or mount pipes, especially in scenarios where the pipe cannot be turned or moved significantly.

They are commonly used in both light industrial and commercial applications. As their name suggests, split ring hangers are designed as a ring that is split into two parts.

This allows them to be installed or removed without having to lift or move the pipe, which makes them a convenient choice for certain installations. The hanger encircles the pipe to provide support over a large surface area, which can help to distribute the weight of the pipe and reduce stress points.

Typically, one end of the hanger is bolted or screwed into a wall, ceiling, or other structural member, while the other end can be adjusted to securely grip the pipe.

8. Roller Hangers

Roller hangers and supports are a specialized type of pipe support used to accommodate the movement of the pipes due to thermal expansion, contraction, and other dynamics. They consist of a hanger attached to a structure like a ceiling or wall, and a roller that the pipe rests on.

The roller allows the pipe to move back and forth with less friction than if it was resting directly on a stationary hanger. This can help reduce stress on the pipe, particularly in high-temperature applications where thermal expansion and contraction can be significant.

Choosing the Right Pipe Hanger

Selecting the right type of pipe hanger involves considering the specific needs of your piping system, including load, movement, and temperature conditions. Buckaroos, Inc. offers a comprehensive range of high-quality pipe hangers to meet diverse system requirements, for effective, long-lasting pipe support.

Here are some key considerations:

Pipe Material

Some materials may require specific types of support or may not be compatible with certain types of hangers. For example, copper piping may need specific types of hangers to prevent galvanic corrosion when in contact with different metals.

Pipe Size and Weight

The diameter and weight of the pipe, including the weight of the contents it carries, are key factors. Larger, heavier pipes require stronger, more robust hangers.

Thermal Expansion and Contraction

If the pipe carries fluids at high temperatures, it may expand and contract significantly. In such cases, adjustable or flexible hangers like spring hangers or roller hangers, which can accommodate this movement, might be needed.

Vibration

In some applications, such as machinery or equipment that generates vibrations, specialized hangers designed to dampen or resist vibration may be necessary.

Corrosion Resistance

In environments where corrosion is a concern, such as in chemical plants or outdoor installations, hangers made from corrosion-resistant materials or with protective coatings may be necessary.

Load Distribution

Ensuring that the weight of the pipe is evenly distributed can help prevent damage to the pipe. Certain hanger designs, like band hangers, are particularly good at evenly distributing the load.

Pipe Support Products from Buckaroos

Buckaroos® Sliding Saddles are special saddles designed for use in dynamic piping systems. They provide controlled linear movement at hanger locations. Sliding Saddles can be used instead of roller hangers, which can be expensive and prone to rust. A combination of Sliding Saddles, Clevis hangers, and rigid insulation is cost-effective and more efficient. You can easily identify each Sliding Saddle by its Sliding Saddle sticker label.

The CleviShield&#; from Buckaroos offers protection to the vapor barrier that encapsulates the pipe and a durable means of supporting overhead piping, ranging in size from 2&#; O.D. to 12&#; O.D. The product is composed of a galvanized shield that rests in a centered position inside a galvanized clevis hanger. The two components are welded together at point of contact. Depending on the application, the CleviShield&#; is available in galvanized carbon steel or stainless steel.

The High Density Fiberglass Blocks come in different sizes and are used to provide support for insulated pipes that pass through load-bearing clevis hanger support locations. They help maintain uniform insulation thickness and prevent any damage that could occur from compression.

The Buckaroos® Support is a wooden dowel precision-cut and attached to a PVC disc. The supports are designed to provide extra strength to pipe insulation where it passes through load-bearing clevis hanger supports on insulated pipe systems. By adding rigidity, the insulation is better protected from being compressed excessively or getting damaged, which helps maintain its consistency and thickness.

Buckaroos Clean Saddles&#; are used to support medium and light compressive strength pipe insulations in Clevis hanger piping systems. The saddles work with various pipe insulation materials such as rubber tubing, phenolic foam, polyisocyanurate, cellular glass, and fiberglass. They are particularly useful for ammonia refrigeration, chilled water, refrigeration, plumbing, and heating piping systems.

Get the Best Pipe Support Solutions with Buckaroos

Ready to explore our comprehensive range of pipe hangers and find the perfect solution for your project? Visit Buckaroos Inc. today! We have a team of experts who can help you choose from our wide selection of piping systems to optimize your system&#;s performance. Don&#;t settle for less &#; choose Buckaroos for unparalleled quality and reliability.

Contact us today for more information!

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