What an awkward looking tool? The truth is that if you ever have the need for a super strong clamp, much stronger than what any traditional worm gear or wire clamp can offer this is the tool that you’ll use to get it.
This tool is commonly referred to as a “cool” tool, derived from the part number C-001 assigned to it by the original manufacturer, or a t-tool due to the distinctive t-like shape. Unlike some of the more traditional strapping systems that are commonly used for strapping down pallet freight where a combination of strapping tensioner, seal crimper and cutter is used to secure the freight, the t-tool is a one-stop, all-in-one tool that includes the tensioner and cutter.
The clamping system is actually quite simple. It involves a length of stainless steel strap (typically 0.020” or 0.030” thick), a purpose-made stainless steel buckle, the t-tool and a small hammer. The buckle is manually fitted to one end of the strap, wrapped around, or threaded through the object(s) to be secured and then tensioned and locked with the t-tool and hammer. More specifics are available at www.straptite.com.
The simplicity of this clamping system offers complete flexibility in user innovation. The t-tool’s uses vary from mounting road signs, bundling underground cables, securing boat docs to repairing a broken sail mast in emergencies. Anywhere you may need a heavy-duty clamp that will never corrode!
The t-tool accommodates band widths between 3/8” and 3/4″ and result in clamps with a clamping force of between 700lb. and 1800lb. Applying the stainless steel clamp with the t-tool is more so an art, rather than science. It can be compared to the act of fastening a screw or bolt where materials can be over-stressed to result product failure. With the t-tool’s 2400 lbs. tensioning capability, applying the clamp correctly is a careful balance between the application, material size and operator judgment.
Although relatively unknown, the t-tool has been around for decades and it is very likely, that you have either directly or indirectly come into contact with it in your daily activities. Just take a look around at the numbers of road signs in the immediate vicinity, it is all held in place with the stainless steel clamping system and probably will be for decades to come.
The t-tool and complete line of stainless steel clamping systems are available for sale to the public, commercial and industrial markets at www.straptite.com.
Tags: clamping tool, cool tool, t-tool, tensioning tool