A guide to clamping knobs
This guide is intended to help you understand clamping knobs which are an important part of clamping elements, what makes them unique compared to other knobs, and when it's the appropriate choice:
What are clamping knobs?
Clamping knobs are types of hand knobs. Also called a clamp knob, this type of knob is ergonomically designed to give the user extra grip and control through the use of features such as texturing, knurling, lobes, or wings.
Levers and crank handles fall into the same category as control elements, but serve different purposes. Crank handles, however, are attached to shafts to turn a machine's axle. Levers come in different types, with some used for manual tightening.
What are clamping knobs used for?
A clamping knob is also a threaded knob. It can have female threads, male studs or through-hole threads. Specifically, these threaded knobs enable a comfortable grip for repetitive and continuous clamping operations for applications that require medium torque for tightening.
Clamping knobs should not be confused with control knobs, which are used with position indicators. Control knobs, shown here, are a type of knurled knob – just as some clamping knobs are – and should be used when you need to make fine, precise position adjustments.
Clamping knobs are more about providing the operator with maximum comfort for efficient clamping. You can learn more about different knobs in our Guide to knobs: types, materials and applications.
Types of clamping knobs
These examples show you just how varied styles can be, with different shapes and materials ranging from plastic to metal.
Knurled knobs
Diamond ridges around the outside of the handle creating a firm, but comfortable gripping surface.
- Material: Polypropylene with brass insert
- Threaded blind hole
- External diameter range: 31mm to 70mm
- Also available: female grip knobs for male applications
Lobe knobs
Scalloped edge provides maximum grip and comfort. Lobe knobs are lobed knobs are impact and chemical resistant and provide a neat appearance for finished applications that require adjustment. Moulded in studs and inserts for maximum strength.
- Material: Black nylon and zinc-plated steel
- Male thread
- External diameter range: 30mm to 60mm
- Screw-on knobs are also available: female threads
Fluted knobs
The fluting, or grooves, enable a sure grip, even in the presence of oils, greases and sweat from the hand. Fluted knobs are suitable for when clearance is not needed between the grip and equipment. and add stability. Adds stability.
- Available materials: Soft-touch polypropylene (absorbs vibration), nylon, or 25% glass-filled nylon.
- External diameter range: 7mm to 100mm
Star knobs
The star knob is another name for a lobed knob, but this style deserves to be highlighted. The multi lobes enable optimal grip and comfort. Star knobs are star-head clamping knobs are reamed to fit your application and designed to fit a variety of applications from fabrication equipment to display furniture.
- Available materials: Polypropylene, phenolic or TPE over-mould with polypropylene. Threaded stud: zinc-plated steel
Wing knobs
Designed with a protruding metal shoulder to ensure metal-to-metal assembly while giving good leverage. Staggered wing knobs resist solvents, oils, grease and chemicals.
- Available materials: Zinc-plated steel or stainless steel
- Plastic wing knobs also available in nylon
Thumb screw knobs
This thumb screw knob is a type of knurled knob that presses on to screws, creating a small knob for clamping or securing an application. The edge of this knurled clamping knob is easily gripped for tightening and loosening.
- Available materials: Steel, polyoxymethylene (POM), nylon 6/6, stainless steel
- External diameter range: 12mm to 40mm
Applications and industries that use clamping knobs
Clamping knobs are used across almost all industries in some way, including industrial environments. The knob you choose will depend on the space you have to work with, the degree of comfort needed, and depending on the application and materials.
Medical equipment, furniture and food preparation machinery
These industries are both an example of where material is critical. The focus is on hygiene, which makes stainless steel a good choice.
Stainless steel can stand up to constant cleaning with harsh chemicals and resist corrosion. Choose a streamlined design which avoids the use of grooves where bacteria can hide, such as this lobed knob, designed specifically for these industries.
You can learn more about this material in Understanding stainless-steel grades.
Polypropylene knobs are another excellent material for these industries, especially when user comfort is paramount. An economical choice, this material has high chemical resistance, withstanding cleaning detergents and disinfectants.
Learn more in What plastic is used in medical devices?
Stainless-steel knobs
Stainless steel, such as this wing knob, is used for making adjustments, particularly in:
- Construction machinery
- Outdoor equipment
Hydraulic systems
For applications involving hydraulics, choose a knurled or fluted design to ensure a no-slip grip, such as this fluted grip knob.
Woodworking and metal fabrication
All clamping knobs work well for these industries, but it’s worth pointing out simple thumb screw knobs and lobed handwheels and knobs. These are particularly helpful for:
- Drill presses
- Saws
- Lathes
- Routing jigs
- Furniture
Industrial machinery
From packing machinery to heavy vehicles, consider lobed knobs and fluted grip knobs.
Download free CADs and try before you buy
Free CADs are available for most solutions, which you can download. You can also request free samples to ensure the product you’ve chosen is exactly what you need.
If you’re not quite sure which knob or fastener will work best, our experts are always happy to advise you. Whatever your requirements, you can depend on fast despatch. Request your free samples or download free CADs now.
Questions?
Email us at sales@essentracomponents.co.uk or speak to one of our experts for further information on the ideal solution for your application 0345 528 0474.