How to use a toolmaker’s clamp?

16th August 2021

	How to use a toolmaker’s clamp?


	Shop for Toolmakers Clamps


			You will need: A toolmaker’s clamp A tommy bar

			Step 1 – Place jaws around object Loosen the jaws and place them either side of the object you wish to hold.

			Step 2 – Hand tighten screws When the clamp is in the position you want, tighten the centre screw and outer screw using your fingers.

			Step 3 – Move clamp from side to side Now attempt to move the clamp from side to side at the outer end, checking for any movement or pivoting.

			If the clamp pivots at the jaw end, then the jaws are too close. To rectify this, loosen the outer screw and open up the jaws very slightly using the central screw, then tighten once more using the outer screw.

			If the clamp pivots at the workpiece’s edge then the jaws are too far apart. The clamp will then have to be loosened and the central screw wound in a little and the clamp tightened again.

			Once the clamp is unable to move from side to side, ensure the screws are finger tight, so they cannot be tightened any more.

			Step 4 – Tighten outer screw You can then tighten the outer screw with a tommy bar. If it moves from side to side after you have done this, tighten the centre screw tightly with the tommy bar.