Pipe Clamp (Bügelschelle)

To fix pipelines, depending on the sector, various tube clamps, conduit clamps, bow clamps (Bügel) and cable clamps are used. For this reason the Michel Tube portfolio includes various tube clamps and mounting materials — fully compatible with the products and outside diameters.

The bow clamps (Bügelschelle) frequently used in the plastics industry are generally available from stock. These clamps are also used in the Vario Table mounting assembly (coupling station); this allows a high number of identical components to be used.

Available in 5 different diameter ranges (38 – 76.1 mm) and in galvanized steel.

The function of the clamp

The clamp is the element that connects the tube to the mounting rail or the structure. It looks simple, but the long-term stability of the line depends on it to a great extent. The tube weight, vibration and thermal movement are transferred to the structure through the clamp.

The tightening balance

Mistakes are made at both ends. Overtightening deforms the cross-section, especially on aluminum and thin-walled tubes; even a slight flattening on the inner surface creates turbulence and a build-up point in the flow. Undertightening, on the other hand, leaves the tube free; vibration begins and the connections loosen over time.

An allowance for thermal movement

Long lines lengthen and shorten with temperature change. If all the clamps are tightened fixed, the tube cannot make this movement and the stress is loaded onto the connection points. The correct practice is to keep certain points fixed and have the clamps in between leave a sliding allowance.

Material and environment

In damp or outdoor environments galvanized coating deteriorates over time; in these areas stainless clamps should be preferred. A rubber or plastic inner lining both damps vibration and prevents contact corrosion between different metals.

For hinged and bolted types and rail systems you can look at the system components page.