If you are looking for pipe clamps to fix a heavy load pipe installation, there are often two types of pipe clamp to choose from – traditional split bands or modern heavy duty pipe clamps. Both of these clamps are suitable for supporting heavier loads (generally speaking), however, there are some important differences that you might want to consider.
Split bands have been around for years and are a traditional clamp comprising of a basic construction of two pieces of formed metal, secured in place in two places with nuts and bolts.
Some installers tend to favour these clamps as they are a tried and tested method of supporting pipes and they have been used in construction for many years. So it is understandable that some installers may be reluctant to consider newer, more innovative versions of these clamps for supporting heavy loads. But there can be some great benefits of using modern alternatives.
Modern pipe clamps for supporting heavy loads, like our HD Clamps, have been designed using state of the art manufacturing methods and with quicker and easier installation in mind. As a result, they can deal in more flexible ways with issues such as:
Now we’ll take a look at some of the specific benefits Walraven’s HD Clamps range has over traditional split bands in more detail.
Approved to European RAL quality standards
The RAL standard shows a very high level of testing and certification that will increasingly be required by specifiers or end clients.
Cost effective alternative
In many instances, heavy duty pipe clamps can be cheaper than split bands, particularly where larger sizes are required or where coatings are required for outdoor use.
Modern HD Clamps have a range of up to 10mm adjustment
A greater adjustment range means more tolerance and flexibility for onsite installation. That, in turn, can lead to fewer returned items and faster installations.
Easy installation features
Innovative product features such as a captive nut, anti-loss washer and the ability to unscrew just one side to fit the clamp, means that pipes can be installed at a much faster rate than traditional clamps. This helps you meet tight timescales whilst saving on installation costs.
Certified load bearing capacity
As part of the RAL testing, these clamps have been tested and certified to be able to carry up to 12kN of force.
Noise insulation features
Heavy duty pipe clamps are available with a rubber lining option, which means where there is a requirement for reducing noise levels, these clamps are ideal.
Highly suitable for corrosive environments
Our HD range is available with our special UltraProtect® corrosion resistant coating, suitable for up to C4 environments. This includes a 20-year warranty (subject to T&Cs).
Allow for a larger bracket distance between clamps
The larger the span between clamps, the more force will be placed on each individual clamp. Therefore, HD Clamps can help installers achieve maximum spans between clamps, thereby reducing the overall number of parts required, minimising costs.
Lower BS British Standard
Split bands are manufactured to British Standards which do not include such a detailed level of testing nor certification regarding quality.
Can be expensive in some scenarios
If required in larger sizes, these can work out more expensive than heavy duty pipe clamps. For some outdoor environments, these can also be an expensive option.
Traditional, split bands only have around a 4mm adjustment range
With a much smaller range of adjustment when fitting the clamp, these clamps are less flexible and require much more accurate specification and fixing.
Loose nuts and bolts used to secure both sides
We all know how difficult it can be to install these clamps at height with hands full of nuts and bolts. Many loose parts can end up on the floor, lost whilst trying to install. This can be time-consuming and frustrating for the installers.
Uncertified load bearing capacity
As these clamps are covered only by a British Standard, they are not officially tested and certified for specific loads. Only load-bearing guidance is given.
No built-in lining options available
You cannot buy ready-lined split bands. To line a split band you need to buy a separate lining material, usually supplied in rolls or lengths, and cut it to size yourself.
Options for corrosion resistance
Split bands are available hot dip galvanised or in stainless steel which can be used for some outdoor environments. However, these can be expensive options and they do not come with a corrosion warranty.
More clamps likely to be required
In many scenarios, HD Clamps can take more force than split bands. So using split bands may not allow you to achieve the best span between clamps. This can result in additional costs as you’ll have to purchase more clamps in total.
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As you can see, whilst there is a place for traditional pipe clamps like split bands, there are also many benefits to considering the use of modern alternatives like HD Clamps.
Buying from Walraven you get more than just the pipe clamp itself. You will be sourcing from a quality minded manufacture with the highest levels of approvals, and you are buying from a team that can advise and support in both the procurement and implementation stages.
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