Metal Clamps
A laboratory clamp is an essential piece of equipment used in a variety of settings for supporting and securing other items of laboratory apparatus such as flasks, reaction vessels, tubing, thermometers, probes, columns, funnels and overhead stirrers.
Laboratory clamps typically consist of a shaft and bosshead which is secured with hand-tightened thumbscrews, knurled nuts or wingnuts onto a supporting rod, stand or scaffold, and a pair of two or three-pronged, adjustable closing jaws designed for gripping objects safely and securely.
Most laboratory clamps are constructed of metals such as stainless steel, nickel-plated zinc, plated brass or diecast aluminium alloy for enhanced chemical, heat and corrosion resistance. However, some components such as the adjusting screws may be made of plastic, and the prongs may also be lined or covered with cork, plastic, glass-fibre or rubber for enhanced grip with minimal damage or breakage.
Laboratory clamps are available in a range of styles and designs depending on the intended application:
- Universal, general purpose clamps that are fully adjustable for accommodating and securing a wide range of apparatus of different sizes such as columns and thermometers
- Retort clamps made specially for securing round bottom-flasks and similar glassware
- Fork clamps for securing and supporting cone-and-socket ground glassware joints
- Three-prong extension clamps, sometimes available with spring-loaded jaws, for holding irregularly shaped or outsized objects
- Specialised clamps for securing burettes and condensers or reaction vessels
- Chain clamps, which incorporate a circular, tightenable chain loop to hold cylinders and beakers