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Which clamp should I use? Worm drive Vs T-bolt Vs V-band clamp

Worm drive Vs T-bolt Vs V-band clamp

When it comes to hose connections, selecting the right clamp is critical for leak-proof performance, safety, and durability. Our customers often ask: “Which clamp should I use?”
Here’s a simple guide to help you select the right type of Clamp for your application:

1. Worm Drive Clamps

Construction: A band with slots that are engaged in screw threads, all assembled in a Housing which holds all things together. As you rotate (tighten) the screw, the screw pulls the strip & the clamp tightens.

Application usages for Worm Drive Clamps:

  • Automotive fuel lines
  • General plumbing
  • Domestic & light industrial applications
  • Automotive Air Intake & Filter Applications

Advantages of Worm Drive Clamps:

  • Economical and versatile
  • Easy to install & remove
  • Wide availability of sizes

Limitations of Worm Drive Clamps:

  • Not suitable for very high-pressure applications
  • Can loosen under vibration if not fitted properly

Best for: Customers looking for low-cost, general-purpose solutions.

2. T-Bolt Clamps

Construction: It consists of a much wider band as compared to worm drive clamps, whose ends are looped to hold the T-housing and T-bolt. The T-bolt clamp is tightened with a Locknut, which, when turned, brings the clamp loops closer and tightens the clamp.

Application usages of T Bolt Clamps:

  • Trucks, tractors, and commercial vehicles
  • Heavy machinery & construction equipment
  • Agricultural sprayers, compressors, exhaust systems

Advantages of T Bolt Clamps

  • Provides strong, uniform clamping force
  • Withstands vibration & pressure
  • Durable for long-term heavy-duty use

Limitations of T Bolt Clamps:

  • Slightly higher cost than worm drive
  • The application of this clamp is limited to 120°C due to the presence of a Nyloc insert Nut.

Best for: Customers in automotive, agriculture, and heavy machinery where strength & reliability are critical.

3. V-Band Clamps

Construction: A V-band clamp consists of V-shaped petals welded inside a T-bolt clamp. These V-petals sits on the V-profile of the two mating flanges. When the T-bolt Nut is tightened, the band applies uniform 360° clamping force, pulling the flanges together to create a strong, leak-proof joint.

Application usages of V Band Clamps:

  • Turbochargers & exhaust systems
  • Industrial piping & ducting
  • High-temperature, high-pressure systems

Advantages of V Band Clamps

  • Provides a strong, leak-proof seal
  • Easy assembly & disassembly for maintenance
  • Compact & professional appearance

Limitations of V Band Clamps

  • Higher cost compared to worm drive & T-bolt
  • Requires matching flanges (not for hose-only use)

Best for: Customers in automotive performance, exhausts, and high-pressure industries.

Quick Comparison Table of Worm Drive Clamps, T Bolt Clamps and V Band Clamps
FeaturesWorm DriveT-BoltV-Band
CostLowMediumHigh
Clamping ForceLightHeavyVery Heavy
Ease of UseVery EasyModerateEasy (if flanges ready)
ApplicationsGeneral-purposeHeavy-duty hoses, agriculture, vehiclesExhaust, turbo, high-pressure piping
DurabilityMediumHighVery High