Cable clamps, or wire rope clamps, are clips used for cable routing and management that help provide a defined path for cables (sometimes called  U-clamps or U-clips). Aside from just keeping the cables in place, they also prevent tangling and reduce wear and tear. Additionally, some clamps provide cushioning to avoid abrasion and to protect cables from sharp edges or vibrations.

Cable clamps are great for routing as they can be open for adjustments. It is also faster to make a new enclosure when using cable clamps as compared to zip ties and adhesive cable mounts.

Common types of cable clamps

• Plastic cable clamps are lightweight, easy to install, and mainly used for light-duty applications. The simplest plastic cable clamp material is nylon, but PP is used for automotive and appliance wiring, and PE is used for outdoor applications. Plastic clamps are often adjustable.
• Metal cable clamps are strong and durable and suitable for heavy-duty and harsh environments. The most common metal for cable clamps is stainless steel, but aluminium cable clamps are also common. Galvanized steel cable clamps are used for outdoor rugged environments. Metal clamps are usually not adjustable and are designed to fit specific cable diameters.
• Cushioned cable clamps have rubber or silicone cushions to protect cables from vibration and abrasion. They can be used in vehicles, boats, industrial machinery, and HVAC systems. There are adjustable options of cushioned clamps.
• Hook & loop clamps are primarily made from fabric materials, specifically woven nylon or polyester. The clamp consists of a hook side with stiff, tiny hooks that latch onto the soft, fuzzy loops of the loop side when pressed together. They are reusable, flexible, and adjustable. They are used for electronics, in homes, and offices.
• Flat cable clamps are specialized clamps designed to secure and manage flat cables, such as ribbon cables, data cables, and other types of flat-profile wiring. These clamps provide a reliable way to organize flat cables, ensuring they remain securely in place without kinking or tangling. That can be made either from metal or plastic.

NEC requirements for cable clamps

The NEC mandates the use of cable clamps when installing cables into metal boxes or conduit bodies, including types like NM, AC, MC, and MI cables [Sec. 314.17 (C)]. This also applies when installing NM cable into boxes without built-in clamps [Sec. 334.30], such as plastic boxes.

Exceptions include:

1. NM cables in plastic boxes with integral clamps do not require additional clamps [Sec. 314.17 (C) Exception No. 1].
2. MI or MC cables installed with listed fittings that provide adequate strain relief do not need clamps [Sec. 314.17 (C) Exception No. 2].
3. Flexible cords installed into boxes with specific fittings do not require clamps [Sec. 400.14].

How to install cable clamps?

1. Position the clamp:
• Position the clamp over the cable where it needs to be secured.
• Ensure the clamp is oriented correctly, with the opening facing in the direction that allows easy access if adjustments are needed.
2. Mount the clamp:
• For clamps that require screws or bolts, position the clamp, and use a screwdriver or drill to secure it firmly to the mounting surface.
• If using adhesive-backed clamps, peel off the backing and press the clamp firmly onto the surface. Hold for a few seconds to ensure proper adhesion.
3. Secure the cable:
• Place the cable inside and snap the clamp closed to secure it. Ensure it holds the cable snugly without pinching.
• For adjustable clamps, tighten them around the cable to achieve the desired grip. Ensure it’s tight enough to hold but not so tight that it damages the cable.
4. Check cable movement:
• Gently pull the cable to check that the clamp securely holds it and does not move excessively.
• Ensure there’s some slack to prevent excessive tension, especially near connection points.
5. Repeat as needed:
• Install additional clamps along the cable path as required, spacing them evenly to prevent sagging or movement.
• If the cable layout changes, adjustable clamps can be easily repositioned.

Tips for effective use:

• Avoid over-tightening: This can damage cables, especially for delicate or sensitive wiring.
• Regular maintenance: Periodically check clamps in high-vibration areas to remain secure.
• Choose UV-resistant clamps: For outdoor use, select clamps that can withstand sun exposure to prevent degradation.

Types of Metal Cable Clamps at Nassau National Cable

At Nassau National Cable, we have specific types of metal clamps, mostly used for particular niche purposes. Here are they:

• Buchanan clamps for electrical splicing and wire connections. These clamps usually consist of a metal barrel that crimps onto the wires.
• Metal hose clamps are stainless steel galvanized clamps for securing hoses to fittings in automotive, plumbing, and industrial applications.
• Spring loaded torque V-Band for high-pressure and high-vibration environments like exhaust, turbochargers, and machinery. They use a V-shaped band and a spring-loaded mechanism to secure hoses and tubes.
• Muffler clamps are U-bolt-style clamps designed specifically to secure mufflers and exhaust pipes in place on vehicles.
• Exhaust clamps for joining exhaust pipes and components in automotive exhaust systems.
• Hose ferrules for crimping hoses in hydraulic and pneumatic systems.
• T-Bolt Clamps for high-pressure, heavy-duty hose securing. They feature a T-bolt fastener that provides high-strength clamping pressure.
• F-Clamps for temporary holding in woodworking and metalworking. They are adjustable clamps with an F-shaped design that hold objects firmly in place.

At NNC, you can also buy NM and MC cables that are used with cable clamps.