A band clamp uses a long, flexible strap to hold a workpiece in place. It is ideal for clamping large or irregularly shaped workpieces, as the strap is designed to surround the whole workpiece, and its flexibility means it can accommodate many shapes and sizes.
The strap locks itself as it is tightened, which provides consistent tension for a firm grip on the clamped object. On the majority of models, the strap is tightened evenly from both sides, meaning the pressure is distributed equally around the object, preventing any distortion of the workpiece.
A band clamp is most suited for creating assemblies made of wood, plastic and non-ferrous metals, such as aluminium, copper and stainless steel. It can also be used to hold ferrous metals, such as steel and iron, although there is a risk of distorting the shape of the object if the clamp is not positioned correctly.
The strap is often made from nylon, a material which provides durability and strength. It is the material commonly used for vehicle seatbelts, highlighting how secure it is.
It is an ideal clamp for picture framing, as it usually comes with corner brackets for holding on to corners securely.
