F clamps are versatile and indispensable tools in the trades and construction industry that are used to securely fix workpieces during processing or drying phases.

They consist of a sturdy frame and a movable clamping arm, which is tightened by a screw mechanism to press workpieces together and hold them in place. Depending on the type and size of the screw clamp, there are different uses and properties that are optimized for different types of work.

Below you will find how F clamps work and how they are used, the different types and their areas of application as well as tips on use and care.

How F clamps work:

F clamps work by means of a simple clamping mechanism:

When a threaded spindle mounted in a clamping arm is turned, clamping jaws move towards or away from the workpiece, depending on the direction in which the spindle is turned. Tightening the spindle generates a high compressive force that holds the workpiece firmly and evenly in place. This is useful for stabilizing materials during gluing or sawing.
Some F clamps have protective caps or soft pads on the clamping jaws to protect sensitive workpieces from damage.

Application of F clamps:

The application of F clamps varies depending on the project and the type of screw clamp, but follows similar principles:

• The F clamp is positioned so that the workpiece is stabilized and held securely in place. Ideally, the spindle should be at a right angle to the surface of the workpiece.
• F clamps with adjustable clamping width are opened according to the width of the workpiece. Pipe clamps or one-handed clamps can be adjusted in length and are flexible for large workpieces.
• The pressure on the workpiece is increased by turning the spindle or by pressing on spring clamps and one-handed clamps. Care must be taken not to damage sensitive materials.
• Depending on the material, it is important to select the correct clamping force. Light pressure is often sufficient for woodwork, whereas metal requires a higher clamping force.
• After processing, the clamp is carefully released by turning the spindle anticlockwise or loosening the clamping clamp on one-handed clamps.

Types of F clamps and their areas of use:

There are various types of screw clamps that differ in material, size and construction, making them suitable for different applications:

1. Metal screw clamps (G-clamps):
These classic, C-shaped clamps are made of metal and offer high clamping force.
Use: Ideal for general workshop work, such as fixing wooden or metal parts. They are stable and robust and are often used for demanding work.

2. Spring clamps:
Small, lightweight clamps with a spring mechanism.
Use: Suitable for light fixing work, such as holding materials together while drying or painting. Quick to use, but not suitable for heavy clamping forces.

3. One-handed clamps:
One-handed clamps can be operated with just one hand, which makes them very practical and time-saving. They have a quick-release mechanism.
Use: Ideal for light to medium work where you only have one hand free, e.g. for fastenings in hard-to-reach positions.

4. Wooden clamps:
Traditional and particularly gentle on workpieces, especially suitable for delicate surfaces.
Use: Mostly in the woodworking trade for precise gluing and for work that does not require extreme pressure.

5. Frame or angle clamps:
These clamps are specially designed for right-angled joints.
Use: Indispensable for carpentry and joinery work, especially for joints at right angles such as when building cabinets or picture frames.

6. Pipe clamps:
Pipe clamps consist of a long rod or pipe on which the jaws can be adjusted in a sliding manner.
Use: Ideal for large-area work, such as fixing long wooden boards or beams, e.g. in furniture construction.

Tips for the correct use of F clamps:

• Use several F clamps for large workpieces to distribute the pressure evenly and avoid deformation.
• Use rubber or plastic covers on the clamping jaws to protect sensitive surfaces from pressure marks or scratches.
• Smaller clamps are suitable for work with low pressure (such as craft work). For larger projects, such as furniture making, sturdy, longer clamps should be chosen.
• Too much pressure can lead to deformation and damage. With wood in particular, a moderate clamping force is often sufficient to achieve a stable connection.

Care and maintenance:

• Regularly remove dust that settles on the spindle and the clamping jaws to keep the clamping mechanism running smoothly.
• Lubricate the threaded spindle occasionally with a drop of machine oil to protect the mechanism and prevent corrosion.
• F clamps should be stored in a dry and clean place to prevent rusting, especially clamps made of metal.
• Check regularly that the jaws, handles and spindles are still firm and stable.

With the right selection and application, F clamps can be used in a variety of ways and contribute significantly to precise and stable results in construction and craft work.

Here you will find an overview of the most important criteria to look out for when buying F clamps:

When buying F clamps, there are some important criteria to consider in order to make the right choice for the respective application. Here is a detailed overview:

• Choosing the right type of F clamp depends on the area of application and the clamping force required:
• Screw G clamps: Classic and robust, suitable for general work when high clamping force is required.
• One-handed clamps: Practical and quick to use, ideal for work where only one hand is free. Suitable for smaller clamping jobs.
• Spring clamps: Lightweight and suitable for lower clamping forces, especially for quick, light fixings.
• Frame and angle clamps**: Especially for right-angled joints and precise fixing of corners.
• Pipe clamps: For large clamping widths, particularly suitable for furniture construction and work on large workpieces.
• The choice of material has a decisive influence on the clamping force:
• Metal offers high stability and is ideal for applications with high clamping force. Steel or aluminum clamps are particularly durable and robust.
• Plastic is lighter, but not as stable as metal clamps. Often used for one-handed clamps and sufficient for smaller projects.
• Wood is mainly used for delicate surfaces, as wood does not leave any pressure marks and is gentler.
• Select the clamping width according to the size of the workpiece. Smaller workpieces require shorter clamps, larger workpieces require longer or adjustable clamps.
• The opening should be large enough to hold the workpiece easily. Pipe clamps, for example, offer a flexible clamping width.
• Deep clamping jaws are useful if the clamp needs to be positioned further inwards on the workpiece.
• Take the clamping force of the clamp into account. More force is required for hard materials such as metal, while wood requires less pressure.
• The clamp should not bend or give way under tension. Steel clamps are particularly robust and suitable for heavy-duty work.
• An ergonomic handle makes it easier to tighten and loosen the clamp. One-handed clamps and G-screw clamps with a non-slip handle offer better control.
• A plastic or rubberized handle ensures comfort and prevents slipping when tightening.
• Clamps with rubber or plastic pads on the jaws protect sensitive surfaces from scratches and pressure marks.
• On some models, the protective caps can be replaced, which extends the service life and is suitable for a wide range of applications.
• The spindle should rotate easily and smoothly to apply precise pressure and make the tool easy to handle.
• Tools from established brands often offer a longer service life and are particularly suitable for frequent use.
• Clamps with a stainless finish or coating will prevent the tool from corroding over time.
• For occasional DIY projects, cheaper models are often sufficient, while for frequent use it makes sense to invest in high-quality clamps.
• High-quality models sometimes offer spare parts, such as additional protective caps, or accessories, such as extension pieces for pipe clamps.
• Tools with safety certificates (such as the GS seal) often guarantee additional safety and durability.

With these criteria in mind, you can find the right F clamp that meets the requirements of your project and allows you to work efficiently.

F clamps can be purchased from various suppliers. Comprehensive information on manufacturers and suppliers of F clamps from all over the world can be found on Exportpages.