Happy clampers!

WDS Components has launched a range of soft tip clamping levers, designed for clamping without causing damage or marking. The levers are described as ideal for clamping tubing or sheet metal on applications such as jigs and machinery, as well as office equipment stands and camera tripods.

Nylon or brass tips provide a secure, mark-free clamp and the L or T shaped levers enable clamping in confined spaces when the handle cannot make a complete rotation.

Staple part of range

Clamping levers and indexing clamping levers have long been a staple part of the WDS range. Now, new soft-tip versions enable clamping when marking isn’t desirable, whether to minimise wear that could impact operational longevity, or for cosmetic appearance.

Nylon tips provide the softest clamping tip, says the company, but are slightly faster wearing, while the brass tips are longer lasting, but slightly harder. The choice of tip depends on the combination of materials being used and WDS’s customer service team can advise on the optimum combination.

Locking on to the advantages

Designed by WDS, the functional advantage of the locking mechanism is that the handle can be lifted and spins freely to move to the operator’s choice of position, enabling tightening similar to how a ratchet is operated. The advantage is that space requirement can be minimised or obstructions can be removed, whether tightening a clamp on a machine or a desk.

“With the L shaped clamping handle, for example, if the operator is closing the mechanism, but an obstruction such as a wall prevents further tightening, the handle can be lifted and moved back 180°, in order to continue tightening,” says WDS. “The T handle levers operates in the same way and, while not offering the same level of free movement, it enables fine adjustment with a two-sided grip option. Both handles offer 24 indexing positions.”

Robust, yet lightweight

For L handles, coded WDS 8244, sizes include M5 to M10 with thread lengths ranging from 10mm to 45mm. “The handles are made from a robust, yet lightweight zinc die cast construction, with a black oxide coated alloy steel screw to help prevent corrosion, as well as a stainless steel spring.” The L handles are available in a pure orange, jet black and light grey.

T handles, coded WDS 8242, are based on thread sizes that also include M5 to M10, and thread lengths this time range from 14mm to 45mm. Constructed from the same materials, the T handles are available in pure orange and black grey.