Hose clamps are essential fasteners in a wide variety of industries, from agriculture to HVAC to plumbing, that support the transfer of liquids and gases in tube and hose connections. In order for this transfer to be successful, it requires an understanding of how a clamp works, what application elements to consider, and what to know about the different types of hose clamps.
What is a Hose Clamp and How Do You Use One?
A hose clamp is a round fastener that secures a hose to its mating tubing. When a hose connects to a tube, the clamp creates a tight seal by exerting pressure on the point of contact.
This pressure is exerted in a number of ways. Some clamps are crimped around the hose, others are squeezed, while still others are tightened with some sort of torque force. Most hose clamps are made from various types of metal, but some are made from other materials like nylon.
When a clamp is properly attached, it will keep the hose connected to its mating tube and prevent fluid from leaking out.
Hose Clamp Considerations
Not all hose attachment needs are the same, and many applications bring a unique set of considerations to the table. Here are some of the most important things to think about when preparing your hose clamp application.
Hose and Tube Sizes
Hoses and their mating tubes must have compatible sizes. Ensure that the outside diameter (OD) of your tube or pipe is a proper fit for the inside diameter (ID) of your hose. This should be a snug dry fit without a hose clamp, but not snug enough to potentially tear the hose.
Clamp Size
Some clamps are compatible with a wide range of diameters (like worm gear and quick release hose clamps), while others are designed for much smaller ranges (like a spring or t-bolt hose clamp). When considering the hose clamp size, determine if your application requires flexible sizing or not.
Hose and Tube Characteristics
This should encompass the hose and tube materials, their resistance to damaging application elements, the nature of the fluid the application will transport, and whether the fluid or other elements could break down or burst the hose or tube.
Hose Clamp Materials
Most clamps are made from mild carbon steel or stainless steel, although some are available in brass, copper, bronze, nylon, and other materials.
While carbon steel is economical, it does not offer much corrosion resistance on its own and may benefit from a finish. Stainless steel offers more natural corrosion resistance, especially in grades like 316 (often called “marine grade” for its resistance to saltwater, subzero temperatures, and other extreme conditions).
Additionally, many hose clamps are available in different finishes. Common finishes include:
- Plain (standard and degreased): Raw steel; degreased parts are cleaned of any grease, contaminants, or oil residue for cleanliness or to prepare the part for other treatment.
- Zinc Clear (standard and painted): A finish often applied through a conversion process that offers superior corrosion resistance.
- Phosphate (standard, red, and black): A finish applied through a chemical bath that offers corrosion resistance, absorbs liquid, and produces a finished appearance.
For an in-depth look at these finishing processes, read our Types of Metal Finishes Introductory Guide.
Consider how your application will be exposed to different elements, whether it be humidity, degrees of pressure, fluctuating temperatures, chemicals, oils, saltwater, vibration, or any other variables. This will help you narrow down the desired style and characteristics for your hose clamp.
Different Types of Hose Clamps
There are many different types of clamps that work in a wide variety of applications. The most common variables between styles are:
- Installation/locking mechanisms
- Band width
- Reusability
- Diameter range
- PSI range
Each style features a combination of key features to help you narrow down your options. Keep in mind that a missing feature does not necessarily indicate a weaker hose clamp. Many features will not pertain to your application needs, and the lack thereof may indicate a cost-effective option or a simpler method of use for you.
Worm Gear Hose Clamps
Worm gear hose clamps are the most widely used style of hose clamp. They feature a slotted band with an open end that is fed through a passageway at the top of the clamp. A worm screw is attached to the passageway; when tightened – typically with a hose clamp nut driver – the worm screw pulls the end of the band through the opening and tightens the clamp around the hose. For removal, the worm screw is loosened, which pushes the band back and widens the clamp.
Desired Features
- Allows for a wide diameter range and is ideal for applications where the tube, hose, or shaft circumference is unknown or must be determined on site
- Applies static tension to the fitting
- Easily installed using common hand tools
- Economic, reusable fastening solution for many applications
Notes:
- Slots can dig into soft or malleable hoses and cause damage (a risk mitigated by the lined worm gear hose clamp, which features a solid metal inside band as a protective layer between the clamp and the hose)
- Manual installation and removal can take time as there is no quick release mechanism (though a portable drill affixed with a nut driver can greatly reduce installation time)
There are several subtypes of worm gear hose clamps. They include:
- Flex gear: The worm screw compresses against sets of Belleville washers that are set with the hollow undersides facing inwards towards each other. When the clamp is set in place, the spring tension from the washers fluctuate depending on the hose pressure, making these clamps ideal for applications with varying temperatures.
- General purpose/hi-torque: This is the basic line of worm gear clamps that fit the general description above. A “high-torque” specification indicates that the clamp has a higher torque threshold than standard hose clamps and can create a tighter grip on the hose.
- Mini: These are simply a smaller version of standard clamps, with a maximum diameter of up to 3.5 in.
- Mini with wing screw: These mini clamps feature a built-in tool, or “wing,” to twist the worm screw.
- Screw type stepless: The stepless design ensures 360⁰ uniform compression, eliminating the flat surface on which the screw is typically mounted.
Ear Hose Clamps
An ear hose clamp is one of the most common types of hose clamp. This fastener is a closed metal circle - either spot welded, interlocked, or as a continuous metal band - with either one or two protruding rectangular “ears.” After the clamp slides over the hose, a pair of hose clamp pincers squeeze the sides of the ears together to tighten the clamp around the hose. This creates a permanent installation.
Desired Features
- Great for tight spots
- Resistant to vibration
- Easy installation
- Stays round for full contact
- Single-piece design
- Cost-effective
Notes:
- Single-use and must be removed by destructive means
There are several subtypes of ear clamps. They include:
Stepless 1-Ear Hose Clamps
Stepless 1‑ear clamps are permanent, one‑time use, tamper‑proof clamps that provide a 360° seal with no internal steps or gaps. They install easily and work best with firm plastic or sturdy rubber hose or tube.
Stepless: “Stepless” refers to the patented Oetiker® design in which the inside circle is smooth and uninterrupted by “steps,” bumps, or other recesses or slots within the circle.
1-Ear Hose Clamps
Low‑profile, permanent 2‑ear clamps install easily in tight spots and compensate for component tolerances while providing a tamper‑proof seal for firm plastic or sturdy rubber hoses and tubes.
2-Ear Hose Clamps
2‑ear clamps can be used on a greater variety of hose diameters and are well-suited for one time use with pliable tubing and hoses - even in thermal or vibratory applications.
Ear clamps can also feature a variety of other characteristics that make them conducive to unique application needs. These characteristics include:
- High-Torque: Most hose clamps only require 30-40 in. lbs. of torque to tighten onto the application. A “high-torque” specification indicates that the clamp has a higher torque threshold and can create a tighter grip on the hose.
- One-ear cup lock: A cup lock is a circular lock on the outside of a stepless clamp that holds the outside circle in place as the inside circle is tightened around the hose, which helps the clamp offer more torque.
- One-ear with insert: An insert is an extra metal ring within the clamp that provides consistent coverage and tightening around the hose.
- One-ear with interlock: An interlocking mechanism sits opposite from the ear and provides resistance to corrosion, which is a risk in hose clamps that are secured with spot welds.
- Adjustable: Adjustable ear hose clamps feature a band with multiple notches that interlock with a protruding tab on the outside circle, creating a variety of options for sizes.
Quick Release Hose Clamps
Quick release hose clamps are composed of a slotted strip of metal that is locked into place around a hose. The “quick release” mechanism refers to a locking clip with a mounted screw that flips up to allow the small end of the metal strip to quickly thread through the locking clip by hand.
When the clamp secures around the hose at the desired size, the locking clip is pressed down into place and the clamp is further secured when the screw is tightened. To remove the clamp, the screw is loosened to release enough tension to flip the quick release up, allowing the metal strip to move freely.
Desired Features
- Allows for a wide diameter range and is ideal for applications when the circumference of the hose or shaft is unknown or must be determined on site
- Quick release clamps feature a swivel‑lock screw toggle latch for quick installation and removal
- Screw end is securely affixed so it won't fall out or back out on its own when open
- Reusable and ideal for applications that require frequent inspection or adjustment
Notes:
- More costly than worm gear hose clamps
- Could leave a long tail of unused metal
Many quick release clamps are available in SAE sizes conforming to SAE J1508, which is a standard that guarantees minimum and maximum diameter ranges to comply with commonly paired parts.
T-Bolt Hose Clamps
T-bolt hose clamps offer a smooth circle with an inside metal overlap that closes in as the clamp reduces in size. The top of the clamp features a bent hex bolt that tightens with a common socket wrench. One of the strongest hose clamps on the market, the t-bolt clamp offers a wide band that provides 360° coverage.
Desired Features
- Offers superior strength
- Easy installation with common tools
- Ideal for industrial and military applications with wide diameters and/or high vibration
- T‑bolt clamps, or "Racing Clamps," provide even, 360° sealing pressure around hose and fitting assemblies to prevent leaks and blow‑outs
- Ideal for use in a wide range of applications including high‑vibration environments and in hard‑to‑reach places
- Wide band provides greater clamping force
- Smooth bands eliminate the chance of tearing or cutting pliable hoses
- Well suited for firm rubber, silicone, and plastic hoses and tubes or with suction and discharge hoses
- Reusable and easy to remove
Notes:
- Costly in comparison to other hose clamps
- Do not over tighten
- T-bolt clamps are available in a variety of SAE J1508 sizes.
- Always assemble a sample of your hose and pipe or fitting before measuring and selecting T‑Bolt clamps as they have a limited usable range. The right size of clamp is critical to ensuring a leak proof seal.
Fuel Injection Hose Clamps
Fuel injection hose clamps are designed to exert even compression on a fuel injection hose to prevent leaks. The clamp is smooth on the inside and features a nut and bolt tightening system on top, which can be tightened with a typical screwdriver.
Desired Features
- Reusable
- Easy to install
- Customizable clamping power (bolt can be tightened at different lengths)
- Smooth inside surface reduces hose damage
Notes:
- Nut and bolt threads face potential damage from rust or fuel leaks
Snap Grip Hose Clamps
Snap grip hose clamps are one-piece, nylon clamps with an open mouth and interlocking teeth on both sides of the open ends. When the clamp is placed onto the tube, hose, or shaft, the teeth are pressed together to lock in place.
Common hand tools like pliers can press the clamp further together if the application needs more tension and can also be used to pry the clamp loose.
Desired Features
- Does not rust or corrode
- Reusable
- Lightweight and economical
- Easy installation and removal with common tools
Notes:
- Not intended for high-pressure applications
Spring Hose Clamps
Spring hose clamps, also known as constant tension clamps, feature a metal circle that is not fully closed. The open ends are held together with spring tension and possess tabs that, when squeezed together, widen the clamp. The spring clamp is then placed on the tube or hose, the tabs are released, and the tension applies compression to the application.
Desired Features
- Reusable
- Cost-efficient
- Wide band provides consistent pressure and reduces chances of unwanted leaks
Notes:
- Installation and removal requires specialty tool
Wire Hose Clamps
Wire hose clamps are similar to spring hose clamps in that it compresses the hose with spring tension and it is installed or removed by squeezing two metal tabs together to widen the circle. The main difference is that wire clamps are made from round wire that is wound tightly in an open circle.
Desired Features
- Easy installation with common tools
- Cost-efficient
- Expands and contracts with the hose if pressure fluctuates
- Reusable
Notes:
- Small wire circumference may dig into hose or tube
There are a few subtypes of wire hose clamps. They include:
- Double wire: These clamps feature two wire circles wound closely together, with the metal tabs interlocked at the top.
- Single wire: Single wire clamps feature one wound circle with tabs bent up at either end.
Crimp Ring Hose Clamps
Crimp ring hose clamps are perfect circles with no additional steps, notches, tabs, or layered metal. These clamps are installed with swaging tools, which encapsulate the entire clamp and uniformly compress them to a smaller diameter around the hose, leaving no crimps, locks, or protrusions on the clamp.
Because of the complexity and cost of a swaging tool, this type of clamp works best in industrial applications.
Desired Features
- Professional appearance
- No locks or ears to catch on other components
Notes:
- Requires costly installation tools
- Single-use fastener that is difficult to remove
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