Types of Lifting Clamps
Handling loads safely and efficiently starts with the right clamp for the job. We carry beam clamps, drum clamps, pipe clamps, specialty lifting clamps, and replacement parts, along with plate and sheet clamps in both vertical and horizontal configurations. All of it comes from three brands we trust for quality and performance: Crosby®, M&W, and Terrier.
What to Consider When Selecting a Lifting Clamp
Picking the right clamp type is only the first step. Weight, hardness, and thickness of the material all factor into getting a secure, efficient lift, so check product specs and dimensions closely, and note that some clamps require use in pairs while others don't.
Matching Working Load Limit to Your Load
Choose a clamp with a working load limit as close as possible to what you're actually lifting. That keeps the clamp working at maximum efficiency and reduces wear over time. Undersizing the load matters too: lifting something 20% or more below a clamp's rated capacity wears on the clamp much like overloading it would.
Matching Jaw Capacity to Material Thickness
Get the clamp's maximum jaw capacity as close as possible to your material's thickness. Cam-mechanism clamps use the load's own weight to generate grabbing force, so a jaw opening closer to the material's actual thickness stretches the clamp's spring further and delivers maximum grip. Some clamps use a threaded screw instead, requiring manual clamping force, which works well for jobs where the clamp needs to stay in place across a series of handling operations rather than release quickly.
Material Type and Handling Needs
Some clamps are built for non-sagging materials only, while others handle both sagging and non-sagging loads effectively. If the material can't take surface damage, non-marring pads grip firmly without scratching, a common need for stainless steel and similar finishes.
Vertical vs. Horizontal Orientation
Object orientation and final placement matter just as much as material type. Many vertical lifting clamps offer a 180-degree turning range, ideal for turning material from horizontal to vertical. Horizontal lifting clamps, on the other hand, often boost efficiency by handling multiple plates or sheets in a single lift.
Safety Tips for Using Lifting Clamps
When lifting longer objects vertically with multiple clamps, consider a lifting beam with lifting slings connected to each clamp. That setup helps avoid side-loading and protects the clamps' integrity over time.
Inspect clamps every 1-4 weeks depending on use. Degrease regularly and clear away grit or dirt, check that all bolts and nuts stay tight, and watch for cracks. If a clamp's teeth chip or break beyond half their original width, it's time to replace the clamp. Never use a clamp on material with surface contamination like dirt, grease, or scale.
Related Rigging and Lifting Products
We also carry a full range of rigging supplies and hardware, including wire rope slings, polyester round slings, and anchor shackles.
Lifting Clamps by Brand
We carry lifting clamps from three leaders in the rigging industry: Crosby®, M&W, and Terrier. Each brand builds from top-quality materials and stamps the working load limit directly on every clamp for easy visibility on the job.
Don't see the beam clamp, plate clamp, Crosby® clamp, M&W clamp, or Terrier clamp you need? Call us and we'll track it down.
