Hose clamps are one of the most important plumbing tools universally accepted for use. Like most things, you probably don’t think a lot about hose clamps until you need one. Hose clamps are important plumbing tools because they make connecting pipes easier and safer. Here is a brief history of one of the most important plumbing tools ever invented.
Who Invented the Hose Clamp?
Lumley Robinson, a Royal Navy Commander, invented the hose clam in 1921, according to Plumbers World. As they say, necessity is the mother of invention. Commander Lumley knew there had to be a better way to ensure the security of a hose and pipe. He was granted a patent in 1921 for the first hose clamp. The Jubilee Clip was born, and Commander Lumley set out to sell his new clip as one of the most innovative plumbing tools. Things got off to a rocky start, however, when it came to Lumley’s life.
The War Made a Difference
Sadly, Commander Lumley passed away a couple of years before WWII began, which is when his Jubilee Clip really took off. The British government realized that the Jubilee Clip was an invention they needed. The British government tried to take over the Jubilee company, but his widow fought back. Emily, Commander Lumley’s wife, held on to the company and took over operations. She sold the clips to the British government throughout the war. By the end of World War II, the Jubilee clip had become one of the must-have plumbing tools in Britain and other countries.
The Legacy of Hose Clamps
Hose clips, like many inventions, got their start in a garage. They have been modified over the years and improved. Currently, there are patented hose clips in countries around the world. The Jubilee Company is still in business today. The youngest son of Emily and Commander Lumley sits at the helm of the business. Imagine life without hose clips. Commander Lumley, as he worked away in his garage to solve a problem, likely had no idea how his solution would change the world. Such a simple part with such a large impact came from one man’s decision to figure out how to attach a hose to a pipe.
Hose clips are used across a wide range of industries, and they are still one of the most important plumbing tools. Learn more about hose clips and how they can provide solutions for your projects by contacting us today.
