How to Use a Pipe Clamp
In woodworking you often need to clamp two things together. Unfortunately, the sizes can vary widely. One type of clamp is relatively inexpensive and quite versatile. The pipe clamp only requires the two end fittings and a piece of pipe longer than the piece you want to clamp together.
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Things You'll Need
- End fittings for pipe clamp
- Pipe, 1 inch, threaded on at least one end
- Wood glue
Instructions
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1
Measure the pieces of wood that you have to clamp together. Decide if you are going to need clamps to run in both directions and how many you may need.
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2
Cut lengths of 1-inch outer diameter tubing that are at least 1 foot longer than the dimensions recorded in step 1. Make sure that one end of the pipe has threads.
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3
Assemble the pipe clamps by sliding one of the ends each end of the pipe. The end of the pipe that has threads on it should go with the end fitting that has the tightening crank. The other end is a friction hold onto the pipe.
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4
Put the clamps on a table with the pipes running across the table and the fittings sitting so that the jaws are upright.
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5
Place the pieces of wood to be joined on the pipes and position them so that when the jaws are tightened the pieces will be held together tightly. Slide the end with the friction hold up to the edge of the wood. This way the clamp will not have to tighten very much.
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6
Spread a thin layer of wood glue along both sides of the pieces of wood where the joint will be. Spread the glue with your finger to ensure an even amount of glue all along the seam.
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7
Tighten the jaws together slowly and alternate between each clamp if more than one are to be used. Do a final tighten on each end when finished.
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Tips & Warnings
If a very great length of wood is to be held together it is wise to use clamps on both sides of the wood. The pressure from both sides will lessen the tendency to warp during the curing time for the glue.
To avoid any staining of the wood from the pipe or gumming up the pipe on the clamp itself, place pieces of wax paper on the points at which the wood surface touches the pipe or where the glue will drip onto the pipe.
