Since their inception, repair clamps have become renowned for their ability to make the difference between a minor inconvenience and a major disaster. The versatility and ease of use made these unassuming contraptions indispensable in many pipeline maintenance projects.

However, jumping on the internet and searching for Smith-Blair, Fernco, or Mueller repair clamp for sale won’t do you much good, despite these products being top of their class in terms of manufacturing quality and reliability.

To achieve their full potential, clamps must fit the pipe like a glove, which is achievable only by correctly sizing them up. Fortunately, this is beyond easy to do, as all you need is a reliable measuring tape and you’re all set. 

How do I know what size clamp to get?

Sizing up a repair clamp is a straightforward process that only requires you to assess two distinct factors: pipe diameter and damage spread. These two parameters will form a basis that will guide you toward choosing the correct clamp type.

Calculating the pipe diameter

The very first step is to accurately measure the diameter of the damaged pipe. Accuracy is paramount at this stage, as even a slight discrepancy in measurement can lead to selecting the wrong-size clamp.

• To start, wrap the measuring tape around the pipe, ensuring that it’s snug, but not too tight;
• Next, read and note the measurement. Bear in mind that you’re getting the circumference of the pipe this way and not the diameter;
• To calculate the diameter “d” from circumference “C” use this formula: 
  • d=C/π

Do note that you can also use a caliper to directly measure the diameter, without the need for additional calculations. Either way, with this step done, you have the foundation for all your subsequent decisions.

Measuring the necessary length

Next, you want to ensure the clamp adequately addresses the entirety of the damage. Doing so is as simple as measuring the length of the damaged section, making sure to add a few inches on each side. This extra length ensures effective coverage, without leaving any vulnerable areas exposed, thereby preventing the crack in the pipe from spreading.

What are the most useful pipe clamp lengths?

When it comes to repair clamps, there’s no “jack-of-all-trades” type of solution. While, technically, you can use a lengthier piece to repair smaller damages, doing so is a waste of effort and materials. 

Especially so considering how, today, you have easy access to clamps of virtually any size, suitable for every repair job imaginable. That being said, we can sort clamps by length as follows:

• Short-length (~ 3” – 6”): These pieces are ideal for sealing small leaks and addressing minor cracks. Due to their compact size and ease of installation, they are a welcome addition to any toolkit, whether you’re a professional or a plumbing enthusiast.
• Medium-length (~ 6” – 12”): This is generally considered the most versatile repair clamp length, due to its applicability in a wide range of situations. They are suitable for repairing moderate cracks or leaks on various pipes, offering a good balance between coverage and ease of installation.
• Long-length (exceeding 12”): These clamps are used to address more extensive damage and/or large sections of damaged pipes. Typically, they are designed to provide extra coverage, durability, and stability, which is why they’re commonly used in industrial settings or for major pipeline repairs.

Where can I find a Mueller repair clamp for sale near me?

For more than 25 years, Blair Supply Corp. was the NY’s go-to supplier for state-of-the-art pipe repair materials. Our offer includes pieces from standard-setting manufacturers, such as Mueller, Smith-Blair, and Krausz, renowned for their craftsmanship quality, operational efficiency, and long-term reliability.

We serve our customers from warehouses in Rochester and Watertown, delivering precision repair materials throughout New York State. Whether you need help choosing between different clamp types and brands or need the perfect piece for a very specific use, reach out to us, and rest assured that you’ll find the solution you need!