Plastic hose clamps are used in a variety of projects. Although most popular in cars, they are also frequently used in plumbing systems. Choosing the proper sized plastic hose clamps will make your plumbing project go smoothly, reducing stress and the need to hire a professional.

Hose clamps come in a range of sizes; therefore it is vital to choose the correct size for your project. When fitting a hose onto another pipe, make sure to slide the hose over the pipe before measuring. Some expansion can be expected once the hose is fitted over the pipe. Measure the outside diameter of the hose using either inches or millimeters. When selecting the proper sizes and types of hose clamps, ensure that the outside diameter falls within the minimum and maximum range of the clamp.

Screw clamps have a galvanized or stainless steel band. They contain a screw thread pattern which has been pressed or cut out. These clamps offer the advantage of being tightened with a regular screwdriver to achieve the desired tightness. Turning the screw clockwise tightens the clamp, while a counterclockwise turn will loosen the screw clamp. Screw clamps are a popular choice for temporary fixes. These include damaged pipes which need to be fixed immediately in an emergency situation. While these offer the convenience of giving you some leeway on the measurements, care should be taken when selecting these clamps. If the clamp is not easily accessible, then there could be a problem when it comes to having to use a screw driver to loosen and remove the clamp. These clamps are not designed to simply slide off; they should be loosened before removing. These types of clamps are typically used for hoses measuring at least 1/2 inch in diameter and up.

Hose clamps are available in a variety of sizes and material depending on the job. Without the proper size and quality material, you run the risk of your hose clamp leaking liquid, gas or other substances. The purpose of a hose clamp is to provide even pressure to all sides of the hose. In order to do this, proper measuring is vital to ensure a proper fit and proper protection.

Source: HCK