If you need manual toggle clamps to get a job done, chances are you have heard of DESTACO. DESTACO Manual Clamps are built to meet the most demanding requirements, keeping work pieces held in specific positions, using the correct amount of force. With so many options available, selecting the right manual clamp for your workplace might seem confusing. Below you will find our guide to manual toggle clamps which should help you select the right one for your needs.
Things to Consider When Selecting a Toggle Clamp
For most ordinary applications consideration of the following points will lead to the proper clamp selection:
- Size and shape of the parts to be held
- Uniformity of part size
- Holding capacity required
- Strength and dexterity of the operator
- Operator’s position (should you use horizontal or vertical handle models?)
- Frequency of operation (should you plan for a temporary or permanent fixture?)
- Time cycle of operation (should you consider a turntable or conveyor set-up if curing time is required?)
- Cycling time and sequence (should you consider air-operated models that can be operated faster and in sequence?)
- Environment (should a stainless steel model be considered?)
Processing Applications
Remember, the same toggle action force multiplying principle can be applied to other tasks besides holding. Certain models can be used to position parts, power fixtures or perform mechanical functions such as piercing sheet metal, staking rivets or locating.
Safety
A certain clamping force will be necessary to safely hold a part. This force is determined by taking the following into account:
(A) the part material: such as, steel, wood, plastic or glass, etc.
(B) the surface finish of the part: such as, polished, hard or soft, etc.
(C) the machining or assembly operation: such as, milling, welding, drilling, bonding, joining or sealing a mould, etc. In order to ensure clamp strength is not compromised, use all the mounting holes provided.
How Toggle Action Works
Toggle action clamps operate through a linkage system of levers and pivots. The fixed-length levers, connected by pivot pins, supply the action and clamping force. Toggle action has an over-centre lock point which is a fixed stop and linkage. Once in the over-centre position, the clamp cannot move or unlock unless the linkage is moved. All types of toggle clamps have this same action, just oriented differently.
What Are the Most Important Toggle Clamp Models?
- Straight line action clamp
- Forward movement of the handle pushes the plunger into the forward position
- Can be used as a push clamp and pull clamp, locking in two positions
- Holding capacities of 445N-71,200N [100–16,000lbf.]
- Vertical hold-down clamp
- Handle is vertical in clamped position
- Holding capacities up to 22,500N [5060lbf.]
- Opening angle between 65° and 215°
- Horizontal hold-down clamp
- Very low profile
- Handle is horizontal in the clamped position
- Holding capacities up to 5,780N [1,300lbf.]
- Opening angle between 90° and 105°
- Latch clamp
- Convenient one-hand operation due to the patented thumb control lever
- Compact models
- Holding capacities up to 33,300N [7,500lbf.]
- Plier clamp
- Flexible clamping and fixturing
- Also equipped with quick release lever
- Holding capacities 450N-5,340N [100-1200lbf.]
With over 40 years’ experience supplying the Australian Automotive and Manufacturing Industry with world leading products and expert advice, DESTACO Australia is well equipped to meet your clamping needs. Our insightful engineering experts develop innovative, custom solutions that competitors simply cannot match. Contact us today to find out more.