How to attach clamp to metal bar?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around methods for securely attaching a clamp to a hollow metal bar. Participants explore various techniques, including drilling, using blocks, and potential welding, while considering the tools and materials available.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests drilling holes in the clamp and using screws to attach it to a tapered block that fits inside the hollow bar.
  • Another proposes creating a metal block that fits within the tube, using screws to secure the clamp to the block and additional screws to hold the block inside the tube.
  • A participant mentions the possibility of using JB Weld as a strong adhesive alternative, questioning the necessity of welding.
  • Concerns are raised about the strength of the clamp's springs and the direction of force applied to the attachment.
  • One participant notes that welding may be difficult for inexperienced individuals and suggests using all-thread bars and washers as an alternative method.
  • Questions are posed regarding the specific application of the clamp and the types of items it will be used to attach.
  • Participants discuss the potential for using different types of fixings beyond a simple cable clip, encouraging exploration of various options.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a range of opinions on the best method to attach the clamp, with no consensus reached on a single approach. Some favor drilling and mechanical fastening, while others consider adhesive options or alternative fixings.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention limitations regarding the tools available, such as the power of the drill press, and the challenges of welding thin materials. There is also uncertainty about the specific load requirements and the nature of the items to be attached.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in DIY projects, metalworking, or those seeking solutions for attaching hardware to metal structures may find this discussion beneficial.

tirelessphoenix
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TL;DR
clamp attachment to metal bar
Hi, I am trying to find a way to attach the clamp to the metal bar seen in the picture so that they become a rigid unit. I am not sure what is best way to do it. Drilling somehow? screws where? if anyone has a suggestion, please let me know. The metal bar in black seen in the picture is hollow...
thank you
TP
 

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Welcome, @tirelessphoenix ! :cool:

What is the meaning of the third picture?
How much wider is the bar than the jaw of the clip?
How long is the bar?
What do plan to use that tool for?
 
the meaning of the third picture is just to show that I want the clamp and the bar to become a fixed 'unit'.
parts lenghts shown in the new picture added.
I want to use it to attach things

the bar is 1 inch long
pic1b.jpg
 
tirelessphoenix said:
Drilling somehow? screws where? if anyone has a suggestion, please let me know.
Assuming the metal bar is actually a square hollow tube.

Make a square section tapered, wood or plastic block. Hammer the wedge into the end of the tube, with glue in the gap.
Drill the clip with 2, 3 or 4 holes where it will contact the end of the tube. Mark that hole pattern on the end block, then drill undersize.
Attach clip to block with screws that slightly expand the internal wedge, locking it in place.
 
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If welding is out of the question, you could make a metal block that will fit within the square tube. Two holes drilled in the lower side of the clamp and two larger access holes in the upper part of the clamp. Use two rounded head screws to hold the clamp to the block and other screws or bolts & nuts to hold the block within the tube through holes you previously drilled.
 
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tirelessphoenix said:
the meaning of the third picture is just to show that I want the clamp and the bar to become a fixed 'unit'.
What tools and materials do you have available?
 
I actually came up with what Jack action just described. I have drill press, but not that powerful. But I think enough to drill through the metal bar. I didn't think about the welding option...mmm... Im a complete noob about welding...I think I'll try first the drilling. Glue cannot be used.... thank you a lot guys!
 
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tirelessphoenix said:
Glue cannot be used
Why not?
 
  • #10
Does this need to carry significant current and/or load ?? (*)
If not, and tube is a 'standard' size / shape as used for office etc furniture, consider a press-in plug with threaded insert for M6~M8~M10 adjustable foot.

Such may be handy for rapidly positioning / re-positioning other end of pipe, too.

Hole on both jaws, upper hole allows easy torqueing of matching CSK or pan-head machine-screw through lower. If you need low-current / anti-static continuity, a strand of eg 3-Amp wire from under screw-head to between plug and tube should suffice, provided any coating is scraped away...

*) Gotta ask, as welding connections are in a different league...
 
  • #11
tirelessphoenix said:
I actually came up with what Jack action just described. I have drill press, but not that powerful. But I think enough to drill through the metal bar. I didn't think about the welding option...mmm... Im a complete noob about welding...I think I'll try first the drilling. Glue cannot be used.... thank you a lot guys!
Welding of those thin galvanized pieces would be very difficult for any unexperienced person.

If available to you, I would recommend one 1/8-inch all-thread bar, one fender washer and two nuts (only one hole to be drilled on the clamp).

If you can grind the shape of the bottom jaw onto the top of the metal bar, any rotation of the clamp would be restrained.
If no grinding capability, two sheet metal screws into the clamp and against opposite corners of the bar could achieve the same effect.

https://www.homedepot.com/p/Everbilt-1-8-in-x-12-in-Zinc-Key-Stock-800307/204325580

https://www.homedepot.com/p/5-16-in-18-tpi-x-36-in-Zinc-Plated-Threaded-Rod-802227/204274012

Clamp.jpg
 
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  • #12
tirelessphoenix said:
I want to use it to attach things
What sort of things? The springs on those clamps are not very strong so what direction will the force be required to work in? is the tension in the direction of the clip or at right angles?

Going back a bit, do you really need to use a simple cable clip. There are many other fixings available for a host of applications. Take a look in catalogues of fixings to make sure you are heading in the right direction.
 
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