When you think about a hose clamp or a hose clip, you probably think they are all the same. If this is your train of thought, you’re like most people. People generally don’t give a lot of thought to a hose clip until they need one. A wire hose clip is a different type of clamp, and while it does the same thing as any other clamp, it does so by using a different method. Here is what makes a wire hose clamp different.
Defining Wire Hose Clamps
Let’s start with a simple definition of a wire clamp or clip. According to Popular Mechanics, a wire clamp is made of heavy wires bent together into a U shape. That is a pretty accurate description of a wire clamp/clip. Typically, a wire clamp is not a clamp at all; it is a hose clip. Learn more about the difference between a clamp and a clip below.
Differentiating Between Clamps and Clips
A hose clamp is made of solid metal, usually stainless steel or aluminum. It has a screw that you tighten down to adjust the size. A wire clip doesn’t have a screw to tighten it down. Instead, you use a pair of pliers to squeeze open the clip, insert the hose and release the clip. Some people prefer the clip over the clamp because it gives a more secure fit.
Sizing and Applications
Clamps can be more difficult to size than wire clips. Wire clips are made to adjust automatically to a wide range of diameters. Clips are sold “up to” a specific diameter, which means that one-size clip can be used in quite a few different applications with confidence. All hose clamps are not created equally. With a wire clip, there is the advantage of not worrying about how much you need to torque down the screw. There are fewer working parts, meaning there is less to keep up with when installing the clip.
Choosing the right clamp or clip for the job will ensure that your project comes together perfectly. Learn more about the differences between hose clamps and wire hose clips before deciding what is best for your project. Choose the Hose Clamp Kings for a wide range of high-quality clamps and clips in stock.
