The Force is Strong … With These Clamps

January 15.2020 | Product News, Joining Solutions

At BAND-IT, we take pride in the performance of our fastening solutions. Clamps such as Tie-lok® Ties, JR® Clamps and Dual-Lokt® clamps are used worldwide in highly critical applications with a high cost of failure, so keeping track of clamp performance is imperative. 

To ensure optimal performance, we measure and keep track of several forces before, during and after clamping. In this article we’ll talk about two of the most important forces and why we use them.

Retained Force

Measurement of the clamping force exerted onto an object after clamp installation is called retained force.  In simpler terms, the retained force determines the tightness of a clamp and helps to verify clamp quality as well as the proper functioning of installation tools. 

Why we measure it

• A low retained force might indicate a loose clamp, leading to friction between the clamp and workpiece, a weakened joint and eventual failure

• A retained force that’s too high might indicate a clamp that’s too tight. This can crush or disform the workpiece, or lead to a broken clamp due to overtightening.

• Different types of clamps have different acceptable ranges where the retained force is neither too high nor too low

Loop Tensile Force

Sometimes referred to as tensile strength, Loop Tensile Force is the amount of destructive force a clamp can withstand before it breaks. 

Why do we measure it?

• Loop tensile force is important because it is used to determine the strength and durability of a clamp. 

• A loop tensile force that’s too low means the band can easily be pried apart either accidently or otherwise. This is undesirable for applications requiring permanent fastening.

• Applications in high speed environments such as exhaust pipe shielding are subject to impact from foreign bodies at high speed. A good clamp should be able to withstand most impact.

Each application is unique. To speak with an expert about your application, contact us.