What is a Spreader Clamp and How to Use it
Spreader means something which helps in separating or opening up something. A clamp is an instrument or device used to hold things together, usually by means of pressing them. Therefore, a spreader clamp is a device that is used to help open up something by creating opposite pressure.
Various types of clamps can be used as a spreader clamp. The most commonly used clamp is a trigger clamp. The trigger clamp is very easy to operate with a single hand. That is why it is very popular in woodworking. Considering the different types of work, many other types of clamps are also used as spreader clamps, such as Bar clamps and parallel clamps.
Working Mechanism of a Spreader Clamp
As we all know, to generate force, we need to apply a load. So, when we apply a load on a spreader clamp, it exerts an equal and opposite force that helps us to open or separate things.
When you want to use a trigger clamp as a spreader clamp, you must use one simple trick. Remove the removable jaw from the bar and put it back in the opposite direction. So when you trigger the clamp, it will go in the opposite direction to create the opposite force.
If you are using a bar clamp, you must modify it. Take out the screw which is used to adjust the jaws and put it back in a way that both of the jaws are pointing in the same direction. Now you have to trigger the clamp to open up things.
Know More: Best Spreader Clamps for Your Next Project
What Type of Clamp Can be Used as a Spreader?
There are various types of clamps that can be used as spreaders. The most commonly used clamp is a trigger clamp. Trigger clamp is easy to operate with a single hand, which is why it is popular in woodworking. Other types of clamps used as spreaders include bar clamps, parallel clamps, and so on.
Why to Use a Spreader Clamp?
A spreader clamp is mainly used to open up something which is stuck together very tightly. Moreover, it is also used in various applications such as pulling dents, holding a workpiece for sawing and routing operations. You can also use this for attaching a wood piece under a tabletop.
How to Use Spreader Clamp
Here are some simple steps that you have to follow to use a spreader clamp-
1. First of all, you have to decide which clamp you want to use as a spreader clamp. If you want to use a trigger clamp, then you have to remove the removable jaw from the bar and put it back in the opposite direction.
2. Now, you have to adjust the size of the clamp as per your need. You can do this by adjusting the screw which is used to adjust the jaws.
3.After that, you have to put the clamp in between the two things which you want to open or pull apart.
4. Now, you have to trigger the clamp to open up things.
That’s all you have to do to use a spreader clamp.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some tips and tricks that you have to keep in mind while using a spreader clamp-
- You have to use a clamp with a large throat depth to easily accommodate the workpiece’s thickness.
- You have to use a clamp that has a perfect size of sliding bar. You need to keep the clamp between two surfaces, so if your bar is too large than the gap between two surfaces, it won’t fit in that space.
- It is better to use a double-ended clamp to open or close the clamp from any direction easily.
- You have to make sure that the clamp is not slipped while in use. For that, you can use some rubber pads on the jaws of the clamp.
Frequently Asked Questions are Answered
1. Can Pipe Clamps be Used as Spreaders?
No, You can’t use a pipe clamp as a spreader clamp. Its mechanism is different.
2. What is the Difference Between a Clamp and a Spreader?
A clamp is an instrument or device used to hold things together, usually by means of pressing them. A spreader is a device that is used to help open up something by creating opposite pressure.
3. What is the Use of a Spreader Clamp?
A spreader clamp is mainly used to open up something which is stuck together very tightly. Moreover, it is also used in various applications such as pulling dents, holding a workpiece for sawing and routing operations.
Conclusion
I hope you find this article helpful, and now you know what a spreader clamp is and how to use it. If you have any further questions, feel free to ask in the comments section below.
