The application environment has a very important bearing on clamp and material selection.
Temperature
Generally, Nylon 6.6. hose clamps have a working temperature ceiling of 125°C (150°C for Glass-filled Nylon 6.6.). For applications that exceed 150°C, steel clamps should be used.
Weathering
For plastic hose clamps, exposure to UV radiation is the main cause of degradation. However, HCL’s black plastic clamps are enriched with UV inhibitors and heat stabilisers, giving them a working life in excess of 10 years.
Steel clamps are more resistant to UV degradation and will last in hot sunny conditions well in excess of 10 years. Zinc-plated steel clamps (W1-W2) can be used in dry climates, however, Stainless steel (W3-W5) should be selected for climates that are humid, or have significant rainfall.
Chemical
For corrosive environments, such as wet or saltwater weathering: plastic or W4/W5 steel clamps should be used.
For highly corrosive applications requiring long life (25+ years): ultra-high grade materials must be used. This includes Nylon 11 or Nylon 12 for plastic clamps, and Titanium or High Nickel/Chromium alloys for steel clamps.
Sterilisation
In medical applications, it is common practice to sterilise the clamps before use. This is typically an aggressive process, to which only certain materials are resistant (W1-W2 steel clamps are not recommended for sterilisation).
Stainless Steel is also rated as excellent for the following methods of disinfecting and sterilisation:
- Formalin
- Isopropyl
- Alcohol
- Ethyl Alcohol
- E-Beam
- Dry Heat