Clamps & Types of Clamps

Clamp:

A clamp is a mechanical device used in manufacturing to securely hold and restrain a workpiece in a fixed position during machining, drilling, welding, assembly or other manufacturing operations. In simple words, a clamp holds the workpiece firmly so that it does not move or vibrate during the operation.

Main Functions of a Clamp:

Holds the workpiece securely.
Prevents unwanted movement or vibration.
Maintains the workpiece in its required position.
Allows quick loading and unloading of the workpiece.
Improves machining accuracy and safety.

Example: In a drilling jig, a clamp holds the workpiece firmly against the locating surfaces while the hole is drilled.

Types of Clamps:

Clamps used in jigs, fixtures and manufacturing operations can be classified into the following common types:

1. Screw Clamp:

A screw clamp uses a threaded screw to apply clamping force on the workpiece. It is simple, strong, and commonly used in jigs and fixtures.

2. Flat Clamp:

A flat clamp consists of a flat clamping surface that presses the workpiece against its locating surface. It is suitable for holding flat and regular-shaped components.

3. Pivoted Clamp:

A pivoted clamp has a clamping arm that rotates about a fixed pivot to hold the workpiece. It allows easy loading and unloading of the component.

4. Equalizing Clamp:

An equalizing clamp has two or more clamping points connected through a movable mechanism. It distributes the clamping force approximately equally over the workpiece.

5. Latch Clamp:

A latch clamp uses a hinged or pivoted latch that can be quickly engaged and released. It is mainly used where rapid clamping and unclamping are required.

6. Swing-Plate Clamp:

A swing-plate clamp has a clamping plate that swings about a pivot to provide access for loading and unloading. It is useful when the workpiece needs to be inserted from the side.

7. Double Acting Clamp:

A double acting clamp applies clamping action in two directions or at two locations simultaneously. It provides quick and balanced clamping of the workpiece.

8. Wedge Clamp:

A wedge clamp uses the inclined surface of a wedge to generate clamping force. It provides strong clamping and is useful where compact clamping arrangements are required.

9. Cam Clamp:

A cam clamp uses a rotating cam, usually with an eccentric profile, to press and hold the workpiece. It provides quick clamping and unclamping with a simple rotary motion.