A C-clamp, also known as G-clamp is a device which is used as a clamp to hold metal and wood pieces, especially for welding and carpentry purposes. It takes a firm grip on the material so that it won’t slip while doing the carpentry and welding work. They are generally made of steel or cast iron. C clamp consists of a fixed jaw which is attached to the clamp frame, and a movable jaw which is attached to a screw that is tightened into the clamp frame through a handle present over its top edge.
How to use
Put the material (wood/metal pieces) between the jaws. A small piece of wood can be used as a buffer to protect the main wood piece from getting marks of the C-Clamp. After putting them, tighten the jaws to make sure that the grip is firm and it is tightened well. After that, the material can be cut or welded accordingly with other tools such as a hacksaw and welding machine.
Common applications
1. For holding metal for cutting/welding
2. To hold wood materials for carpentry
Safety Measures to Follow
1. Remove clamps as soon as the job is finished. Clamps serve only as temporary devices for holding work securely in place.
2. Keep all moving parts of clamps lightly oiled and keep tools clean to prevent slippage.
3. Store C-clamps by clamping them in a rack, not in a drawer.
Some example tasks that students can try out in the ATL Lab
1. Take a wood piece, hold it with a C-clamp and cut it.
Important Links
How to use a clamp (https://youtu.be/t3v3J1EFrR8)
YouTube video
