Repair clamps are a widely used tool for permanent and temporary pipe repair in industrial settings. They come in a wide variety of types and sizes and are often the first choice for industrial pipe repair as they can mitigate the issue swiftly and effectively, minimizing downtime.

Depending on the specific requirements of the repair project, different types of repair clamps may be used, along with various coupling pipe fittings. In order to ensure the optimal integrity of the installation, the right kind of clamp has to be used. That is why it is essential to understand the different available repair clamps for sale and learn how they can be used in industrial applications. Read on.

How do you clamp a water pipe?

The exact manner of using a clamp to repair a water pipe will depend on the type, location, and size of the defective section. There are numerous different types of repair clamps available on the market, with various mounting and bracketing options (single, two, or three screw, clip-in, bolt down, etc.) and materials (plastic, stainless steel, chrome, brass, and copper).

In industrial settings, there are three common repair scenarios that will influence the method of repair and the type of clamp that will be used:

External corrosion

External corrosion, whether environmental, crevice, or galvanic, can cause localized and extensive mechanical damage and metal loss. The extent of wall thickness loss (metal loss) will dictate the repair action. In general, dealing with external metal loss should involve steps that prevent further deterioration and re-occurrence of the issue.

Internal corrosion and erosion

Piping systems that convey fluids can be subject to a wide range of problems caused by internal erosion, corrosion, or a combination of the two. The extent of internal metal loss is much harder to quantify, and arresting the metal loss process and preventing further deterioration is not always possible. This is why it is crucial that appropriate inspection methods are performed before deciding on the repair mechanism and components for dealing with internal metal loss.

Pipe leakage

Both external and internal metal loss can lead to pipe leakage of varying severity. Leaks can also be a result of welded seam or joint cracks. Depending on the cause and extent of damage, the repair process may involve using a repair clamp for localized repair or replacing the damaged pipe section using pipe couplings. In order to mitigate the leakage, the used component will have to accommodate the corrosivity of the fluid as well as the pressure requirements.

How long will a pipe repair clamp last?

The longevity of a pipe repair clamp will depend on its type and the extent of pipe damage. When choosing the right clamp for the repair process, structured risk assessments will need to be performed in order to predict and mitigate the potential of further damage in critical systems.

The chosen clamp will be either used as a permanent or temporary solution depending on the exact circumstances. For instance, certain types of clamps, such as patch clamps, pin-hole clamps, and outside diameter flange-type clamps, are typically used for temporary repair. Others, such as encircling sleeves and stand-off clamps are usually seen as permanent solutions.

Explore our selection of industrial repair clamps for sale

At Blair Supply Corp, we carry a wide selection of piping repair equipment and tools from some of the top manufacturers in the water and wastewater industry. Owing to our active and continuous involvement and support of both national and local associations, we are a recognized leader in the utility distribution industry.

You can browse our selection online or contact us at one of our three warehouses in Avoca, Watertown, and Rochester. We offer nationwide shipping, so don’t hesitate to reach out to us whether you need utility supplies in Monroe County or anywhere else across the nation. Call us today!