What Is a Multi Clamp?
A multi clamp is a fixture used for assembling supports, piping, and scaffolding at work sites. Smooth-surfaced cylindrical parts (e.g., pumping pipes, metal scaffold pipes, and supports) are crossed over each other and secured at the intersection with a multi clamp to form a solid assembly.
Points to Note When Selecting Multi Clamps
1. The Number of Pipes to Be Fixed and the Angle of Intersection
Generally, two pipes are orthogonal to each other, but some multi clamps can be used to bundle three or more pipes in parallel, or the angle can be adjusted as desired.
2. Outer Diameter of Pipes to Be Fixed
The inner diameter of the clip band of the multi clamps should be the same as or slightly larger than the outer diameter of the pipe to be fixed.
Uses of Multi Clamps
Multi clamps are used to fasten cylindrical pipes at their intersections and are frequently used in the following situations:
- Construction of scaffolding pipes at construction sites.
- Creating trellises for crawling crop vines in agricultural fields. They are especially used in the construction of grapevine trellises.
- Fixing pipe frames when building simple sheds.
Smooth-surfaced metal pipes are difficult to drill holes in and bolt together. Therefore, multi clamps can be used to secure the intersections for easier and stronger fixation. Since there is no need to drill holes or hammer nails into the pipes, disassembly is relatively easy and the pipes can be reused.
Principle of Multi Clamps
The basic structure of multi clamps consists of a crimp band (a ring through which the pipe is threaded) and a tightening screw. The crimp band is curved in a circular shape and is suitable for clamping cylindrical pipes. When using the clamp, loosen the screw, insert the pipe through the crimp band, and temporarily fasten it with curing tape. After fine-tuning the position and angle of the multi clamps, tighten the tightening screw to secure it in place.
Keep the following points in mind when selecting multi clamps
- Number and angle of pipes to be crossed: A typical multi clamp has two crimp bands perpendicular to each other, allowing two pipes to be fixed at right angles. Some products allow three or more pipes to be bundled in parallel, while others allow the angle of the crimp band to be adjusted as desired. However, those with adjustable crimp band angles are at risk of deterioration of the moving parts and loss of strength after repeated use. When assembling structures that require safety, such as scaffolding, it is recommended to use multi clamps, in which the crimp band does not move.
- Diameter of pipe and crimp band: If the diameter of the crimp band is too large for the pipe, a gap may be created and the multi clamps may move. Check the outside diameter of the pipe to be fixed and select multi clamps of the same or slightly larger diameter.