Hose clamps are often overlooked heroes in the world of construction and DIY, binding the world together – quite literally! From car radiators and road signs to washing machine drain hoses, hose clamps play an important role. Here at BS Fixings, we stock a huge range of hose clamps and tools, so we have created this blog post to help you understand exactly how they are used and what they do.

Hose clamps, sometimes referred to as hose clips, are devices used to fasten and seal hoses onto a desired object. They come in various shapes and sizes, constructed from diverse materials such as stainless steel, plastic, or even high-strength wire. They're responsible for maintaining the integrity of your hoses and pipes under pressure, preventing costly and potentially hazardous leaks.

How important are hose clamps?

From automotive engines to home appliances, hose clamps ensure your systems work smoothly and safely. Imagine a car without hose clamps - it wouldn't go very far before the cooling system starts to leak, resulting in the engine overheating. On a smaller scale, a hose clamp failure in your washing machine or dishwasher could result in a flooded kitchen. Therefore, choosing the right hose clamp for your needs is an essential consideration for any DIY enthusiast or professional contractor.

Types of hose clamps

Hose clamps come in many shapes and sizes, each designed to cater to a specific need. The most common types include:

Jubilee® clips – also known as worm drive hose clips, jubilee hose clamps are one of the most popular types of fastenings. They are easy to use and extremely durable, being able to secure a range of materials together. They are designed with a helical-threaded screw which is contained within a clamp. When the screw is turned, the banding tightens around the material it is securing.

Heavy-duty hose clamps – also known as Superclamps, this type is just a stronger variation, being able to secure materials in more challenging conditions. For example, in marine environments or where pipework is liable to extreme pressures.

Spring clamps - these clamps apply constant tension to the hose, ideal for maintaining a secure connection under fluctuating pressure.

T-bolt hose clamps – this type of hose clamp is best suited to projects where an air-tight seal is required. Unlike Jubilee clips which tighten with a screw, T-bolt clamps feature a nut and bold fastening.

O clips – if you’re looking for a light-duty clamp, the O clip is perfect! With a simple design, this type of hose clamp is suitable for assembling hoses that only carry air and fluid.

Choosing the right hose clamp

When choosing a hose clamp, consider the diameter of your hose/object, the pressure inside it, the surrounding environment, and the clamp material. For example, stainless steel clamps are excellent at resisting corrosion, making them a perfect choice for marine or outdoor applications. For hoses under high pressure, consider screw or bolt clamps for their superior strength.

At BS Fixings, we pride ourselves on offering a wide range of hose clamps from trusted brands like Jubilee® and  JCS. As industry leaders, they deliver quality hose clamps that can withstand the toughest of tasks, promising peace of mind for any project.

How are they installed?

Correctly installing your hose clamp is crucial for maintaining a leak-free system. When tightening the clamp, makes sure it is snug but avoid over-tightening, as this may damage the hose. On our website, we supply a variety of tools to help make your installation process as easy as possible.

Whether you're a construction professional or a budding DIY enthusiast, understanding and choosing the right hose clamps can make a world of difference in your projects. At BS Fixings, we're committed to providing the best range of hose clamps, from leading brands like JCS, along with the expert advice you need to make the right choice. Please feel free to browse a range of products on our website today or for more information, get in touch with us on 03330 117818 and a member of our team will be more than happy to help!