Working and Features of a Bar Clamp

A bar clamp allows two pieces to be tightened together by distributing equal pressure throughout the area to be glued. However, to ensure this, it is important to tighten the clamp carefully. This tool can be easily adjusted as per the requirement. 
A bar clamp can also be used when screwing or nailing two pieces of wood together. A properly placed bar clamp makes it possible for the user to hold the pieces of wood in place while working on them. Bar clamps are available in different sizes varying from 6 inches to 36 inches. The reach or the throat of the clamp measures from 2 inches to 2-1/2 inches. Some bar clamps are designed with a ratcheting handle and can be used with one hand, whereas other clamps have reversible head and are used to push pieces apart with outward pressure. Some of the bar clamps designed to be operated with one hand also have the squeeze and lock feature. The bar clamp with dual durometer handle is designed for additional comfort.
Some of the bar clamps are fixed with non-mar plastic caps that are glue resistant and protect the surface from damages. A large diameter pad surface is provided below the upper cap to prevent the work piece from dimpling. The acme thread is coated with graphite for smoother action and the work hardener increases the strength of the clamp while in application. The coarse thread enables faster clamping and reduces the cranking. The tool incorporates a malleable cast jaw pressed and fitted to the rail. The body of the bar clamp is corrugated giving it extra strength and also rendering it protection against corrosion. To provide a non-slip grip the clamp has the set screw permanently molded into sliding arm and interlocked with serration on six sides. To minimize flexing or bending, the rail is especially designed and is also galvanized to prevent stains on wood and minimize rusting.
Bar clamps are categorized into three types according to their sizes: heavy-duty, medium bar clamps, and light and small bar clamps. Heavy-duty bar clamps, as the name suggests, are commonly used in bulk production and to manufacture huge hardware. Even medium sized clamps are used for professional purposes. The light and small clamps are easy to use clamps for house-hold applications. 

What to look for in a Bar Clamp

The budget and the project for which a bar clamp is to be used should be the primary factors that need to be considered while selecting the tool. Since bar clamps are completely mechanical, the comfort which the clamp offers while in application is another factor to look in for when choosing this tool. The measurement of the jaw opening of the bar clamp is considered to be the length of the tool. Also, keep in mind that the clamp should not cause any damage to the work piece. Therefore, it is necessary for the clamp to have caps and padding on the holding edge of the tool. The acme thread should allow an extremely smooth movement of the jaws. The material with which jaws are filled also play an important part in the tool’s functionality.
Swivel pads ensure there is no damage to the surface. Also, consider the strength-to-weight ratio of the bar clamp. A higher ratio is preferable. A longer handle offers a better the grip on the clamp. Some reputed manufacturers of bar clamps include Grip, Bessey, Jorgensen, Wilton, and Irwin.