Hose Clamp Material Comparison

Choosing the right material for hose clamps

You already know that not all hose clamps are the same. There are large hose clamps and small ones. There are wire hose clamps and ring hose clamps. There are hose clamps that are designed for automotive use and others for your home.

Material is yet another way to differentiate among the number of hose clamps available. The material used to construct the hose clamp must be taken into consideration when purchasing one.

Taking a closer look at the different materials used will help you make more informed decisions and ultimately better at selecting the proper hose clamp for the job.

Consider this

Here's some basic information on two popular materials used for hose clamps.

Stainless steel hose clamps:

Stainless steel hose clamps are top-quality hose clamps that are ideal for corrosive environments. For aquatic and underground applications, stainless steel hose clamps are often the best type of hose clamp for the job because they can endure the elements without rusting. 

However, stainless steel hose clamps aren't just for aquatic and underground applications. Miniature hose clamps that are made of stainless steel are ideal for air, fuel and transmission lines.

Depending on the size, stainless steel hose clamps can cost anywhere between $.70 and $4.00.

Remember, to reap the full benefits that stainless steel hose clamps provide you must look for hose clamps that include a stainless steel screw.

Plastic hose clamps:

Plastic hose clamps also are popular because of their resistance to rust. Once believed not to be as strong as other hose clamps, plastic hose clamps are becoming more popular since they are being made better and stronger

For example, one manufacturer's plastic hose clamps are glass-filled for additional strength. With this added strength, plastic hose clamps are now being used in larger projects like securing hoses, tubing and fittings as well as minor projects such as grouping computer wires.

Most plastic hose clamps do not require any special tools, which is a major advantage. The cost of plastic hose clamps is another advantage. For example, you can get a pack of six .5-in. plastic hose clamps for under $4.00.

Selecting a material

There's no doubt that some hose clamps are better suited for boats and cars while others for home projects. Knowing the pros and cons of each material will definitely help you select the right hose clamp, but you also need to take into consideration the nature of the job. Think through the following before you decide which hose clamp is right.

What elements will the hose clamp be exposed to?

How long does the hose clamp need to last?

What kind of strength does the hose clamp need to deliver?

More information on hose clamps