Clamps hold objects firmly in place. Whether it is being used to clamp an object to a work surface or to hold two or more objects together, the purpose of a clamp is to provide a firm grip for the user to complete the required task.
If a clamp has one jaw only then the device is designed to be used in conjunction with a work surface, such as a bench top, to hold an item steady.
However, if a clamp has two jaws they will work together to hold the item.
The jaws are controlled differently on various types of clamp, depending on the mechanism used. Some types will use a trigger mechanism, whereby the jaws are adjusted using a trigger or lever.
Alternatively, some types have a traditional screw which adjusts the clamp.
When the screw is rotated, the clamp closes around the workpiece and pressure is applied to keep it firmly in place.