Products / BeamClamp Steelwork Fixings

General Questions

Are BeamClamps better than my fabricated clamps?

While BeamClamps will perform the same function as a fabricated we feel we can offer several distinct advantages. BeamClamps are available off the shelf verses having to be made, this can often save time. BeamClamps all come with a published safe working load that is backed by a rigorous testing program. Finally, BeamClamp offers a free engineering service to accompany the products that can help you in selecting, rather than designing from scratch, a clamp suitable for your specific application.

Can BeamClamp products be used with the tapered flanges of S-Beams and C-Channels?

Yes, in fact we have two products specifically designed for this purpose. The Type BT and Type BW have a sloped nose to ensure correct contact is made with these sections. Information is shown on page 27 and page 28 to assist you in selecting the appropriate product to suit a given size of tapered flange S-Beam or C-Channel. We also have an adjustable BeamClamp, the Type BK1, which will suit any style or thickness of steel, including both parallel and tapered flanges.

Can I re-use the BeamClamp components over and over?

No, while it is fine to re-use on several occasion for re-positioning or for alignment purposes we do not recommend that they be re-used an infinite number of times. If you do intend to re-use the BeamClamps we do insist that a new bolt is used once it has been fully tightened to our recommended torque value.

Can the BeamClamp be used for combined loading conditions?

Yes. We publish both tension and frictional load values. If the connection is subjected to both load conditions we recommend standard combined loading calculations be completed to ensure the safe working loads are not exceeded.

Can the products be used in extreme temperatures?

Yes, ductile iron offers the good properties for use in extreme cold or extreme high temperature ranges. Please contact Kee Industrial Products for further information.

Can the products be used when vibration conditions occur?

All products, including all types of mechanical fastening devices, can work loose over time if extreme vibration conditions are present. If your application is subject to normal everyday vibrations the standard products will work fine without the need for additional concern. If extreme vibration is going to be present then treat the connection as a standard bolted connection and if you feel a locking device is required then please do so.

Could you define the term “Safe Working Load with a Factor of Safety of 5:1”?

The safe working load of the BeamClamp components is derived from physical testing. Some manufacturers use theoretical testing done by computer programs, we feel that testing should reflect actual on-site conditions. For each product a series of tests are undertaken, when then assume the mean value to be two standard deviations below the actual mean, and then divide by 5 to determine our published safe working load.

Do I need an Engineers approval to use BeamClamp products?

No, but we recommend a Licensed Structural Engineer be consulted to determine the integrity of the steel members being connected. While we offer safe working loads as high as 32kN it is always best to ensue the steel being connection can carry such a load.

Do I need to do any routine maintenance on the BeamClamps?

You should treat the connection is a similar manner to that of a bolted connection. We suggest that the bolt torque is checked periodically and a visual inspection be performed on the clamps.

How do I ensure correct installation?

Clear instructions are shown on all BeamClamp packaging. In addition we have separate installation instructions available in both print and electronic format. For BeamClamp assemblies we are pleased to offer a CAD drawing of the application clearly listing the location of the BeamClamp components and the recommended torque value. At the conclusion of an installation we recommend that the bolts and nuts have been tightened to our recommended torque values.

How do I specify BeamClamp products?

We have print and electronic copies of CSI format specifications for each of the BeamClamp product groups (Download 3-Part Specs here). For individual BeamClamp connections we are also able to offer a unique part number specific to your exact application, this can be included directly on your prints to ensure the correct parts are specified and subsequently ordered. We also offer a free engineering service whereby we can product a CAD detail of your application that can be e-mailed to you in either DWG or DXF format to allow easy insertion directly into your plans.

How do the BeamClamps differ from other products on the market?

BeamClamp products have been designed to offer a higher safe working load than other products on the market as well as having a better product finish. In addition, through our nationwide network of BeamClamp representatives we are always available to offer advice, product demonstrations and site visits to guarantee a high level of customer service and support.

How long does it take to get the clamps once I have placed an order?

BeamClamp components are stock items at our Logistics in Cradley Heath in the West Midlands. Parts can be shipped same day to meet your shipping needs. If you require location plates and hardware for BeamClamp assemblies please allow an extra few days or alternatively we are please to offer advice on how to size bolts and design location plates if you choose to source these items yourself.

How strong are BeamClamp connections compared to welding?

A better question would be how strong is a weld compared to a BeamClamp connection. BeamClamp products come with an easy to read safe working load table. Dependent upon the bolt size used we offer a guaranteed safe working load per connection backed by a factor of safety of 5:1. Calculating the strength of a weld requires calculations and ultimately is dependent upon the skill of the welder.

I don’t know the exact size of the steel being connected, is this a problem?

No, BeamClamp offers a range of adjustable products whereby the exact thickness of steel being connected or connected to is not required. If the width of the steel is unknown we can offer adjustable location plates that used slotted holes to alleviate any potential problems. BeamClamp Engineers are always available to offer advice on your application and have probably encountered similar applications for other Engineers. Please contact Kee Industrial Products for further information.

Is BeamClamp a permanent connection or intended as only temporary?

BeamClamp is intended as a permanent connection, although it is very effective as a temporary connection to avoid welding to or drilling holes in existing steelwork.

Is using BeamClamp a better alternative to welding or drilling?

We think so. On-site welding brings with it so many additional concerns such as the need for highly skilled personnel, the need for permits, the risk of fire resulting from a stray spark, and the fact that once welded the connection instantly becomes permanent. Drilling has similar disadvantages, it also requires skilled labor, it is often difficult positioning a portable drill in exactly the right location, and any errors can only be rectified by drilling new holes. BeamClamp eliminates these problems, laborers can install BeamClamp connections using only simple hand tools, there is no risk of stray sparks causing a fire hazard and re-positioning and re-aligning the steel is as easy as loosening and re-tightening a nut and bolt. These factors often result in a quick turn around saving time and money.

Should I be concerned about corrosion?

Any responsible Engineer should always be concerned about corrosion. If your application is inside in a sealed environment then less concern is needed whereas an outside application in a highly corrosive environment, such as close to a body of water, should raise greater corrosion concern. With this in mind BeamClamp choose as standard a Hot Dip Galvanized finish for their products. Some products are also available in stainless steel. If required we can also provide a product finish to your requirements, such as powder coating. Please contact Kee Industrial Products for further information.

Should I be concerned about vibration and the possibility of the nut working loose?

Our advice is to treat the BeamClamp connection is the same manner you would treat a bolt and a nut. If you feel a bolted connection would benefit from a locking device such a nylon insert nut then we suggest it be used with the BeamClamp connection. BeamClamp connections have been tested under vibration conditions and have passed some of the most rigorous testing requirements.

What is the standard finish?

The standard finish is Hot Dip Galvanized. While a plain electro galvanized finish may be sufficient for some application we felt that we should offer the best possible finish as standard. The material finish specification is Hot Dip Galvanize to ASTM A153.

What material are the BeamClamps manufactured from?

BeamClamps are manufactured from ductile iron which is ideally suited for a clamp of this nature as against more malleable form of cast iron that have a tendency to deform. We feel that ductile iron is a stronger and safer material. The material specification used for the manufacture of BeamClamp products is SG Iron to ASTM A536: Grade 65-45-12.

Where can I purchase BeamClamp products?

BeamClamp products can be purchased through our distribution network, please contact our sales office for details of your local distributor.

Will the BeamClamps damage my protective coating?

No. One of the main advantages of BeamClamp over traditional connection methods is that protective finishes such as paint or hot dip galvanizing are not damaged. Drilling a hole in a section of steel will leave bare metal inside the hole while welding will require that the finish be removed to ensure adequate weld penetration. Once a hot dip galvanized finish has been damaged in this way it can never be fully re-applied unless the hot dipping process is re-done. Paint is not damaged as the clamps compress down on the steel as against digging into it.

Will the cast section work loose if the screw is un-tightened too far?

If our standard installation instructions are followed the chances of the cast section working loose are extremely remote. If required we can supply a longer screw and a locking device that will ensure the cast section will never work loose.