What Are the Differences Between Ear Clamps and PEX Clamp Rings?

With cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) piping, the right clamp type must guarantee leak-proof and long-lasting plumbing systems. Two variants are ear clamps and PEX clamp rings. With the knowledge of the two types of clamps highlighted above, one is in a better position to decide depending on their plumbing situation. This article will compare and contrast ear clamps and PEX clamp rings regarding their attributes, benefits, and uses to allow you to decide which meets your project requirements.

Ear clamps, also known as Oetiker clamps, are metal bands that contain one or two loop-like tags that are squeezed to tighten around the PEX tubing and fitting. iCrimp ASTM F2098 Stainless Steel Pinch Clamps and up to 13mm Wide Ear Clamps are a good example. These clamps can be used in standard plumbing requirements and automobile engineering.

PEX or Cinch clamps are stainless steel rings used when connecting/joining PEX tubing to the fittings, such as the iCrimp PEX Clamp Tool Kit. A cinch tool is used to fasten the connection; it arranges the ring tightly and firmly to allow sound attachment.

Ear Clamps

• Design: One or two projecting "ears" are bent with a unique tool, thus clamping the ear.
• Mechanism: In crimping, the ear(s) of the clamp is compressed, thus decreasing the overall diameter of the clamp to have close contact with the tubing and fitting.

PEX Clamp Rings

• Design: PEX clamp rings are smooth-faced, simple cylindrical parts made of stainless steel and are free from protruding members.
• Mechanism: This cinch tool tightens the ring by applying uniform force around the PEX tubing and the fitting.

Ear Clamps

• Tools Required: a unique ear clamp crimping tool should be used to change the ears' shape and tighten the clamp.
• Ease of Use: The installation is relatively easy, but the pressure during crimping should be even to prevent leakage.

PEX Clamp Rings

• Tools Required: A clip tool, called a cinch tool, is used to compress the PEX clamp rings. An ideal example is the iCrimp ICP-BJ02 PEX Clamp Cinch Tool, 1-in PEX Clamp Rings, Patented.
• Ease of Use: Most PEX clamp rings are easier to install, particularly in do-it-yourself projects, since the cinch tool applies equal pressure around the ring.

Ear Clamps

• Versatility: There are many tasks where ear clamps can be applied, such as in automobiles, industry, and plumbing.
• Size Range: These come in different sizes to suit various sizes of tubing or hoses.

PEX Clamp Rings

• Specialization: It was initially designed to join pipes, mainly in PEX plumbing, to guarantee a tight seal on the PEX tubing.
• Compatibility: Can be used with all forms of PEX tubing, such as PEX-A, PEX-B, or PEX-C.

Read more: Can I Use Clamps on PEX B?

• Strong Hold: This offers stability and reliability for a helpful network, particularly for high-pressure issues.
• Versatile: These can be applied in other uses besides plumbing, such as automobiles.

• Tool Requirement: Equipment that does not come with the ear clamp tool needs to be procured for fitting, which could be an extra cost.
• Installation Skill: More specifically, the last key factor is that crimping needs to be done correctly, more so by a professional, to ensure even pressure on both pipes and no leakage.

• Ease of Installation: User-friendly, recommended for DIY works, and built to be tightened using a cinch tool.
• Uniform Pressure: This cinch tool helps apply equal force on the clamp to avoid leaks since the force is distributed evenly.

• Specialization: It was developed initially as a PEX plumbing system, which restrains the system from other particular applications.

Analyzing the above methods of connecting and securing PEX tubing, one can conclude that Ear and PEX clamp rings can provide the best securement of PEX tubing. However, their design, installation, and application can be different, which is why one may better fit your project. Thus, ear clamps give a good grip and a wide range of possible uses, whereas PEX clamp rings are easy to install and exert equal pressure across the pipe, which is helpful when using PEX pipes for plumbing. Are you ready to choose a suitable clamp for your plumbing needs? iCrimp offers the best clamp tools and materials for your project.

References

theonehoseclamp.com

medium.com