The Ultimate Guide to Hose Clips - RS Components

Author: Jeremiah

Aug. 11, 2025

The Ultimate Guide to Hose Clips - RS Components

Hose clips and clamps are available in several different configurations, each tailored to specific applications and installation requirements. We'll explore some of the most common types of hose clips and clamps below: 

If you want to learn more, please visit our website.

Worm Drive Hose Clips

Worm drive hose clips, often referred to as worm gear clamps, are one of the most widely used types of hose clips. They feature a stainless-steel band with a screw mechanism that tightens around the hose when turned. Worm drive hose clips are versatile and suitable for a wide range of applications, making them a popular choice for professionals and DIY enthusiasts.

How They Work

Worm drive hose clips work by tightening a stainless-steel band around the hose using a screw mechanism. As the screw is turned, the band constricts, creating a secure and leak-proof connection. Worm drive hose clips are versatile and effective, making them a popular choice for a wide range of applications. 

Spring Hose Clips

Spring hose clips, as the name suggests, utilise a spring-loaded mechanism to create tension around the hose. They are known for their ease of installation and are often used in applications where frequent hose removal is required, such as in the automotive industry.

How They Work

Spring hose clips utilise a spring-loaded mechanism to create tension around the hose, ensuring a secure connection. The spring action of the clip applies constant pressure, keeping the hose firmly in place. Spring hose clips are known for their ease of installation and are often used in applications where hose removal is required.

Bolt Drive Hose Clamps

Bolt drive hose clamps, also known as T-bolt clamps, feature a bolt and nut mechanism that provides a high level of clamping force. They are commonly used in heavy-duty applications and are ideal for situations that require a secure and reliable connection.

How They Work

Bolt drive hose clamps create a strong connection by tightening a bolt and nut mechanism. This mechanism provides a high level of clamping force, ensuring a secure and reliable connection. Bolt drive hose clamps are commonly used in heavy-duty applications where a strong connection is essential. 

Snap Grip Hose Locks

Snap grip hose locks, also known as Herbie clips, are characterised by their ratcheting teeth and durable construction. They are typically made from materials like nylon or stainless steel. Snap grip hose locks are commonly used in applications where a strong, but non-corrosive, clamp is required.

How They Work

Snap grip hose locks, or Herbie clips, work by using ratcheting teeth to grip the hose and fitting. The teeth provide a secure connection, and the clip can be tightened further by squeezing the two ends of the clip together. Snap grip hose locks are known for their durability and are commonly used in applications where a strong, non-corrosive connection is required. 

Quick Release Jubilee Clips

Quick release jubilee clips, also known as quick release hose straps, are designed for ease of use and rapid installation. They feature a quick release mechanism that allows for the clip to be opened and closed without the need for additional tools. They are often used in applications where frequent maintenance or adjustments are required. 

How They Work

Quick release jubilee clips create a secure connection with a simple and easy to use quick release mechanism. The mechanism allows the clip to be opened and closed without the need for additional tools, making them ideal for applications where frequent maintenance or adjustments are required.

Pipe Tube Clamps

Pipe tube clamps are a broader category of clamps used to secure pipes and tubes. They come in a variety of different designs, including split ring clamps, cushioned clamps, and u-bolt clamps. Pipe tube clamps are typically used in industrial and plumbing applications.

How They Work

Pipe tube clamps secure and support pipes or tubes by fastening around them with a two-part design – a clamp body and cover. These clamps attach to structures, such as walls or ceilings, preventing movement and vibration. Pipe tube clamps offer a versatile solution for stabilising pipes or tubes in diverse applications, ensuring structural integrity and minimising unwanted motion.

Hose clips and clamps are primarily used to create secure connections between hoses, pipes, and tubing and their corresponding fittings. These components are essential in a wide range of applications where the transfer of fluids or gases is required. We'll explore some of the common applications of hose clips and clamps below: 

Plumbing

In the plumbing industry, hose clips and clamps are used to secure various types of pipes and hoses. They are essential for ensuring leak-free connections in both residential and commercial plumbing systems. Hose clips play a critical role in maintaining the integrity of water, gas, and other fluid-carrying pipes. 

Automotive

Hose clips and clamps are widely used in the automotive industry to secure hoses in vehicles. They are essential for maintaining the cooling, fuel, and hydraulic systems in cars, trucks, and other types of vehicles. Hose clips help to prevent leaks and ensure the reliable operation of automotive systems. 

Industrial Machinery

In industrial settings, hose clips and clamps are used to secure hoses and tubing in machinery and equipment. They play a crucial role in ensuring the safe and efficient transfer of fluids and gases in industrial processes. Hose clips are essential for maintaining the integrity of industrial systems and preventing leaks. 

Agriculture

Hose clips and clamps are commonly used in agricultural machinery and irrigation systems. They help to secure hoses and pipes, ensuring a reliable flow of water and other essential fluids in agricultural applications. Hose clips are vital for maintaining the efficiency of agricultural equipment and ensuring proper irrigation. 

DIY Projects

Hose clips and clamps are often used in DIY projects for a wide variety of applications. Whether you're working on a home improvement project, repairing a piece of equipment, or building something from scratch, hose clips can be incredibly useful for creating secure connections. 

Overall, hose clips and clamps are essential components in a wide range of industries and applications. They play a critical role in ensuring the integrity of fluid and gas transfer systems, making them indispensable for professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike. 

Hose clips and clamps are typically made from a variety of materials, each with its own set of advantages and characteristics. The most common materials used for hose clips and clamps include: 

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel hose clips and clamps are durable, corrosion-resistant, and suitable for a wide range of applications. They are often used in demanding environments where exposure to moisture or harsh conditions is a concern. Stainless steel hose clips provide excellent strength and reliability, making them a popular choice for professionals.

Mild Steel

Mild steel hose clips and clamps are known for their strength and cost-effectiveness. They are commonly used in automotive and industrial applications. While mild steel hose clips may not offer the same level of corrosion resistance as stainless steel, they are still suitable for many common applications. 

Brass

Brass hose clips and clamps are valued for their corrosion resistance and attractive appearance. They are often used in plumbing and decorative applications where both functionality and aesthetics are important. Brass hose clips provide reliable performance in situations where exposure to water is a concern. 

Nylon

Nylon hose clips and clamps are lightweight, non-corrosive, and ideal for applications where electrical insulation is required. They are commonly used in situations where a non-metallic solution is preferred, such as in the automotive and electronics industries. Nylon hose clips are also suitable for applications where the risk of scratching or damaging surfaces is a concern. 

Each material offers distinct advantages, and the choice of material for a hose clip or clamp depends on the specific requirements of the application. Consider factors such as environmental conditions, exposure to moisture, and the need for corrosion resistance when selecting the right material for your project. 

The Ultimate Guide to Hose Clamps - The Hosemaster

Hose clamps are a popular attachment used in a variety of different industries in order to secure the transportation of products, liquids, gases, and chemicals. 

But how do you know which is the correct hose clamp to use in a certain situation? We’ve got you covered. Keep reading to learn more from the team at The Hosemaster…

What is a hose clamp?

Sometimes referred to as a pipe clamp bracket, a hose clamp is a small fixture designed to secure a hose over a fitting, which prevents fluid from leaking at the connection point. These tools are widely used in various applications, and play a crucial role in ensuring the secure transportation of products, liquids, gases, and chemicals across different industries.

Types of Hose Clamps

Hose clamps are categorised into five main types: screw/band, spring, wire, ear, and T-bolt. The selection of a specific type depends on the hose and the attachment it needs to secure. Of course, each type has unique features and applications, making them suitable for different uses, so let’s take a deep dive into them…

Screw/band clamps

Let’s begin by looking at screw, or band, clamps. Sometimes known as worm-drive clamps or jubilee clamps, screw clamps are the most widely used type of hose clamp. 

These clamps consist of a metal band with a screw mechanism that tightens the band around the hose. Typically made from stainless steel or galvanised steel, the screw mechanism allows for a secure fit that can be tightened or loosened using a screwdriver as needed.

Screw clamps are frequently employed to secure hoses in machinery and equipment, which is why they’ve seen great use in the automotive, plumbing and industrial sectors. 

The advantages of screw clamps include their ease of installation and adjustment, as well as their strong and secure hold. However, it's important to note that over-tightening these clamps can damage the hose, and they may not be suitable for very high-pressure applications.

Buy Now - 55 Piece Stainless Steel Worm Drive Clamps Selection Box (8mm - 40mm)

Spring clamps

Spring clamps, also known as constant-tension clamps, provide a consistent clamping force, even when temperature changes cause the hose material to expand or contract. Constructed from a single piece of spring steel, spring clamps typically have a C-shape with two tangs that can be squeezed together for installation and removal.

Spring clamps are frequently used in cooling systems for automotive applications, or in household appliances, like dishwashers or washing machines.

The main appeal of spring clamps is their ability to maintain a consistent clamping force, which makes them ideal for applications with temperature fluctuations. However, installing and removing spring clamps can be challenging without special tools, and they offer limited adjustability compared to screw clamps.

Wire clamps

Also known as double wire clamps or loop clamps, wire clamps have a unique design with two wire loops that apply an even pressure around the hose. Typically made from stainless steel or galvanised steel wire, wire clamps are designed to ensure even pressure distribution, which helps to reduce the risk of hose damage. 

The effectiveness of their design makes wire clamps a popular choice for low-pressure applications; they’re commonly used in garden hoses, and irrigation systems where the pressure is relatively low. 

As we’ve mentioned, the advantages of wire clamps include their even pressure distribution, which minimises the risk of damaging the hose, and their straightforward design. However, wire clamps are generally limited to low-pressure applications and may require special pliers for installation or removal.

Ear clamps

The design of ear clamps provide a unique, secure connection. The clamps are tightened by crimping the “ears” of the clamp with special pliers, which in turn creates a tight, tamper-proof seal. 

Ear clamps are made from stainless steel or galvanised steel which means they have excellent corrosion resistance - which sees them often used for fuel lines and air conditioning systems. They are also found in medical devices and pharmaceutical applications, where a secure and tamper-proof connection is essential. 

Ear clamps are great because of their ability to provide a tamper-proof and secure connection, however, installing and removing ear clamps requires special tools, and they are not easily adjusted once installed.

T-bolt clamps

T-bolt clamps are heavy-duty hose clamps designed for high-pressure applications. Featuring a T-bolt and nut mechanism, T-bolt clamps are made from stainless steel or heavy-duty galvanised steel, which allows them to withstand highly pressurised conditions, and to maintain an even pressure distribution around the hose.

T-bolt clamps are commonly used in high-performance automotive applications, such as securing turbocharger and intercooler hoses. They are also found in industrial machinery and equipment, as well as marine applications, including securing hoses in boats and ships. 

T-bolt clamps provide a strong, reliable clamping force, and are durable and corrosion-resistant. However, they tend to be more expensive than other types of clamps and require tools for installation and adjustment.

How to select the right material for your hose clamp?

Selecting the right hose clamp is just one half of the battle. The other important consideration is the material it's made from.

Different materials offer distinct advantages and disadvantages, which can influence the clamp’s performance, durability, and suitability for certain applications. Some of the common materials used in hose clamps are:

Stainless steel

Stainless steel is the most common material for hose clamps, and for good reason. 

Stainless steel is highly regarded for its excellent corrosion resistance, strength, and durability. Its ability to withstand harsh environmental conditions makes it especially suitable for automotive, marine, and industrial uses where exposure to moisture, chemicals, and extreme temperatures is common.

In addition to corrosion resistance, stainless steel clamps are also incredibly strong and capable of withstanding high pressures, making them a reliable option for demanding applications.

However, stainless steel clamps can be more expensive than those made from other materials. Also, while stainless steel is highly durable, it can be more challenging to work with due to its rigidity.

Buy Now - Superclamps, Stainless Steel Clamps

Plastic

Plastic hose clamps are a lightweight and cost-effective alternative to metal clamps. Made from various types of plastics, including nylon and polypropylene, these clamps are suitable for applications where high strength is not required as the plastic is unable to meet the same demands as a metal clamp. 

Because of this, plastic clamps are often used in low-pressure situations, such as in gardening, irrigation systems, and certain household applications.

The primary advantage of plastic hose clamps is their cost-effectiveness. They are less expensive than metal clamps, and are much lighter, which can be beneficial in applications where weight is a concern. Additionally, plastic offers some great resistance to corrosion and chemicals.

However, plastic hose clamps do have their limitations. They are neither as strong nor as durable as metal clamps, and can also be more prone to breakage, especially in extreme temperatures or when subjected to significant stress.

You will get efficient and thoughtful service from YOUDE.

Brass

Brass hose clamps, being resistant to corrosion and pressure, are durable and suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. An alloy of copper and zinc, brass clamps provide a strong and reliable hold, and are used in plumbing and marine applications where exposure to water and other corrosive elements is common. 

However, they can be more expensive than other types of clamps, and their availability may be limited compared to more common materials like stainless steel.

Aluminium

Aluminium hose clamps are lightweight and resistant to corrosion. While not as strong as stainless steel, aluminium offers a good balance of strength and weight. These clamps are often used in automotive and industrial applications where weight savings are important. 

However, one drawback of aluminium clamps is that they can be more prone to deformation under high pressure, which can affect their performance in some situations.

How to select the right size hose clamp?

Getting the right size for your hose clamp is crucial. Not only for saving you time and money, but also ensuring that you reduce the risk of leaks, reduced efficiency, or even damage to the hose or the equipment it's attached to. Let’s run through the steps to get that measurement right…

Measuring your hose diameter

The first step in selecting the right hose clamp is to accurately measure the hose diameter. This measurement is essential because the clamp needs to fit snugly around the hose without being too tight or too loose. 

To measure the hose diameter, you will need a flexible measuring tape or a caliper.

Start by measuring the outer diameter of the hose. Wrap the measuring tape around the hose and record the measurement. If you're using a caliper, gently place it around the hose without compressing it and take the reading.

Once you have the outer diameter measurement, you can use this information to select the appropriate clamp size. However, if you don’t have a caliper, you can use the following formula:

Outside Diameter (O.D.) = Circumference (C) ÷ Pi (3.)

Most hose clamps will have a range of diameters they can accommodate, so it's important to choose a clamp that fits within this range. Once you’ve confirmed your measurements, you can select a clamp that sits within the correct adjustment range.

To help clear things up, below is a table for the British standard for screw/band clamps:

Size

Adjustment range (millimetres)

Adjustment range (inches)

12

9.5 mm - 12 mm

⅜” - ½”

16

11 mm - 16 mm

½” - ⅝”

20

13 mm - 20 mm

½” - ¾”

22

16 mm - 22 mm

⅝” - ⅞”

25

18 mm - 25 mm

¾” - 1”

30

22 mm - 30 mm

⅞” - 1 ⅛”

35

25 mm - 35 mm

1” - 1 ⅜”

40

30 mm - 40 mm

1 ¼” - 1 ⅝”

45

32 mm - 45 mm

1 ¼” - 1 ¾”

50

35 mm - 50 mm

1 ⅜” - 2”

55

40 mm - 55 mm

1 ⅝” - 2 ⅛”

60

45 mm - 60 mm

1 ¾” - 2 ⅜”

70

55 mm - 70 mm

2 ⅛” - 2 ¾”

How temperature and pressure may affect your hose clamp

When selecting the right size and fit for hose clamps, don’t forget the significant roles temperature and pressure can play. 

Hoses and clamps can expand and contract with temperature changes, which may affect the seal's integrity, so it's important to think about the operating temperature range when selecting a hose clamp.

Pressure is another critical factor to remember. High-pressure applications will require clamps that can maintain a secure hold without slipping or loosening. When dealing with such cases, heavy-duty clamps like T-bolt clamps can provide a strong and reliable clamping force.

Buy Now - Jubilee Clips

How to install a hose clamp

To achieve a secure, tight clamp, you need to make sure that you have properly installed your hose clamp. When installing a hose clamp, follow these step-by-step installation guidelines:

1. Gather the right tools 

Before starting the installation, make sure you have all the proper tools for the job. Different types of hose clamp will require different tools, such as a screwdriver for screw clamps, pliers for ear clamps, or a wrench for T-bolt clamps. Having the right tools on hand will make the installation process much smoother and easier.

2. Prepare the hose and fitting 

Make sure the hose and fitting are clean and free of any debris or contaminants. If the hose is old or damaged, it might be time to replace it so you can ensure a tight seal. Once done, slide the hose clamp onto the hose before attaching the hose to the fitting.

Not sure what to look for? Learn How to Tell If Your Hydraulic Hose Needs Replacing with The Hosemaster…

3. Position the hose clamp 

Once the hose is securely attached to the fitting, slide the hose clamp into place. The clamp should be positioned about a quarter of an inch from the end of the hose, covering the fitting's barb or ribbed area. Make sure that the clamp is evenly aligned and not twisted or angled.

4. Tighten the clamp 

Using the correct tool for the chosen clamp, tighten the hose clamp as follows:

  • Screw clamps: insert the screwdriver into the screw head and turn it clockwise. Continue turning until the clamp is snug but not over-tightened. Over-tightening can damage the hose by cutting into its surface, so aim for a firm yet gentle hold that secures the hose without causing any deformations.
  • Spring clamps: use spring clamp pliers or a similar tool to compress the protruding ends - or tangs - of the clamp, then slide the clamp over the hose and fitting. Release the pliers to allow the clamp to spring back, securing the hose in place.
  • Wire clamps: use wire clamp pliers or regular pliers to grip the ends of the wire loops. Twist the ends slightly to open the clamp, then slide it over the hose and fitting. Once in position, twist the ends back and press them together to secure the clamp. If the wire is particularly stiff, you may need to use additional force to achieve a secure fit, but take care not to damage the hose.
  • Ear clamps: position the clamp over the hose and fitting, ensuring it is evenly placed, then use pliers to crimp the ears of the clamp. Squeeze the pliers firmly until the ears are completely crimped, and the clamp is secure.
  • T-Bolt clamps: place the wrench on the nut of the T-bolt and turn it clockwise. Tighten the nut until the clamp is secure around the hose, ensuring an even distribution of pressure. Avoid over-tightening, as it can deform the hose and compromise the seal.

5. Inspect the connection 

After tightening the clamp, inspect the connection to make sure that the hose is securely attached, and that there are no visible gaps or misalignments. If necessary, adjust the clamp and re-tighten it to achieve a proper seal.

Common mistakes to avoid

Installing hose clamps correctly is an important task, so to ensure you do it correctly, avoid these common mistakes:

  • Over-tightening: as we mentioned above, you should always try to avoid over-tightening a hose clamp. This is because it can damage the hose, causing it to crack or tear, and ultimately lead to leaks. Tighten the clamp just enough to create a secure seal without deforming the hose.
  • Incorrect placement: improper positioning of the clamp can also lead to leaks. Make sure that the clamp is placed evenly around the hose and is positioned over the fitting's barb or ribbed area. Avoid placing the clamp too close to the hose's edge, as this can cause it to slip off.
  • Using the wrong clamp size: installing the incorrect clamp size can result in an insecure connection, so it’s important to make sure that you measure the hose diameter accurately and choose a clamp that fits within the specified range.
  • Ignoring temperature and pressure factors: always consider the practical operating environment's temperature and pressure conditions when selecting and installing hose clamps. Using clamps that are not designed for the specific conditions can lead to premature failure.

How to remove a hose clamp

The process for removing a hose clamp is relatively straightforward, though it depends on the type of hose clamp being used. Proper tools are essential for the job to ensure a smooth and damage-free removal process:

  • Screw clamps: to remove a screw clamp, insert the screwdriver into the screw head and turn it counterclockwise. Continue loosening the screw until the clamp is loose enough to slide off the hose.
  • Spring clamps: to remove a spring clamp, you will need spring clamp pliers or a suitable gripping tool. Position the tool over the clamp’s tangs (the two protruding ends), then squeeze the handles of the tool to compress the clamp and release the tension. Once the clamp is compressed, slide it off the hose and fitting. Take care to maintain a firm grip on the clamp to prevent it from snapping back unexpectedly.
  • Wire clamps: use wire clamp pliers or regular pliers to grip the ends of the wire loops. Gently twist and pull the ends to release the tension in the clamp. Work the clamp off the hose, taking care not to damage the hose or the wire loops. If the clamp is stubborn, you may need to cut the wire using wire cutters, but be cautious to avoid damaging the hose.
  • Ear clamps: to remove an ear clamp, carefully cut through the crimped section using pliers or a suitable cutting tool. Take care not to damage the hose during this process. Depending on the difficulty of removal and the condition of the hose, you may need to replace the hose or trim it to remove any damaged parts.
  • T-Bolt clamps: use a wrench to turn the nut counterclockwise, loosening the T-bolt. Once the clamp is loose, it can be slid off the hose. T-bolt clamps are typically used in high-pressure applications, so ensure the hose is depressurised before removal to avoid damage or injury.

After removing the clamp, inspect the hose for any signs of wear or damage. If the hose is in good condition, it can be reused with a new clamp. However, if there are any cracks, tears, or other signs of damage, it is advisable to replace the hose to ensure a secure and leak-free connection.

Hose clamp maintenance

It is recommended that you perform regular maintenance and inspection of your hose clamps to ensure their continued performance and reliability. Follow these guidelines to keep your hose clamps in optimal condition:

  • Wear and tear: periodically inspect hose clamps for signs of wear and tear, such as rust, corrosion, or deformation. If found, replace any damaged or worn clamps to prevent leaks and maintain a secure connection.
  • Tightness: over time, hose clamps can loosen due to vibration, temperature changes, or other factors. Regularly check the tightness of the clamps and re-tighten them as needed. Remember to avoid over-tightening, which can damage the hose.
  • Replace worn hoses: in addition to inspecting the clamps, check the hoses for signs of wear, such as cracks, bulges, or leaks. These too should be replaced, as damaged hoses can impact the integrity of the connection.
  • Lubricate moving parts: for clamps with moving parts - such as screw clamps - periodically lubricate the screw mechanism to ensure smooth operation and prevent rust.

Find the right hose clamp at The Hosemaster

Hose clamps play an integral role in securing the transportation of products, liquids, gases, and chemicals, so it is important to pick the right hose clamp for your needs. That’s where The Hosemaster can help. We have a wide range of hoses, clamps, and accessories suitable for any application. 

If you require additional support or buying advice, we’re always happy to help. Contact us online with any sales or technical questions, or give us a call on 604 002 to speak to one of our team at any stage of your buying journey.

Browse hose clamps at The Hosemaster

For more product buying guides and useful information, check out The Hosemaster blog

For more American Type Quick Release Hose Clampinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.

93

0

Comments

Please Join Us to post.

0/2000

All Comments ( 0 )

Guest Posts

If you are interested in sending in a Guest Blogger Submission,welcome to write for us!

Your Name: (required)

Your Email: (required)

Subject:

Your Message: (required)