
An F-clamp, also known as a bar clamp or speed clamp, is a type of
clamp. The name comes from its "
F" shape. This tool is used in
woodworking while more permanent attachment is being made with
screws or
glue, or in
metalworking to hold pieces together for
welding
Welding is a fabrication (metal), fabrication process that joins materials, usually metals or thermoplastics, primarily by using high temperature to melting, melt the parts together and allow them to cool, causing Fusion welding, fusion. Co ...
or
bolting. F-clamps are similar to but distinct from
C-clamps and
pipe clamps.
Description
An F-clamp is a type of
clamp. It is also known as a bar clamp or speed clamp. An F-clamp consists of two horizontal bars joined together by a vertical bar. This gives the clamp an appearance of the letter
F. There is a large screw on the lower bar to allow for the clamp to be tightened. F-clamps are adjustable, which allows for them to be used on larger scale objects without the need for a large screw.
Use
This tool is used in
woodworking while more permanent attachment is being made with
screws or
glue, or in
metalworking to hold pieces together for
welding
Welding is a fabrication (metal), fabrication process that joins materials, usually metals or thermoplastics, primarily by using high temperature to melting, melt the parts together and allow them to cool, causing Fusion welding, fusion. Co ...
or
bolting.
An F-clamp is also a simple mechanical device used for lifting engine or
transmission parts. The clamp has an adjusting screw to tighten onto the part and a lifting ring to attach a hoist cable.
Similar devices
The F-clamp is similar to a
C-clamp in use, but has a wider opening capacity (throat). F-clamps in the industry terminology have the jaws mounted on a flat bar, while a
pipe clamp, which has the same construction, is mounted on a pipe, normally of 1/2" or 3/4" diameter.
Image:Bar_clamp_1.jpg, Bar clamps used to glue up a desk
A desk or bureau is a piece of furniture with a flat table (furniture), table-style work surface used in a school, office, home or the like for academic, professional or domestic activities such as reading (activity), reading, writing, or using ...
top
Image:Bar_clamp_2.jpg, Bar clamps jaw detail
Image:Irwin Quick-Grip bar clamp.jpg, Irwin Quick-Grip sliding bar clamp
References
External links
For diameter analysis
Clamps (tool)
Metalworking hand tools
Woodworking hand tools
{{Woodworking-stub