Rack Clamps

About Rack Clamps

Rack clamps are heavy-duty clamping tools designed specifically for demanding metalworking and welding applications. Unlike standard woodworking clamps, rack clamps feature all-metal construction with no exposed threads or mechanisms, protecting them from welding spatter and workshop debris. They operate using a fixed jaw and bar combined with a moveable jaw that can be rapidly repositioned along a toothed rack before being locked securely in place. Many models offer reversible jaws for both clamping and spreading operations, making them versatile tools for professional metalworkers.

MyToolShed.co.uk stocks the full range of Carver rack clamps, the UK's most trusted brand for professional-grade clamping equipment. Our selection includes standard duty, medium duty, and long reach models, along with replacement bars and moveable jaws to maintain your existing clamps. Whether you need a complete clamp set or individual components, MyToolShed offers rack clamps suitable for both trade professionals and serious DIY enthusiasts.

Applications

Rack clamps are essential tools for:

• Welders and fabricators – securing metal components during MIG, TIG and stick welding operations
• Metalworkers – holding steel, aluminium and other metals for cutting, drilling and grinding
• Automotive workshops – chassis repairs, exhaust fabrication and bodywork modifications
• Agricultural engineers – farm machinery repairs and implement fabrication
• Construction trades – steelwork installation and structural repairs
• Maintenance engineers – holding components during repair and modification work
• General fabrication – gate making, railings, security grilles and bespoke metalwork

Choosing The Right Rack Clamps

When selecting rack clamps, consider these key factors:

• Duty rating – Standard duty clamps suit occasional use and lighter materials, whilst medium duty models provide increased clamping force for regular professional use and thicker metal sections
• Reach requirements – Standard clamps typically offer throat depths around 100mm, whilst long reach models extend to 300mm or more for accessing deep workpieces or clamping larger assemblies
• Bar length – Choose based on the maximum width of materials you'll be clamping; replacement bars are available to extend capacity
• Jaw reversibility – Models with reversible jaws provide spreading functionality as well as clamping, adding versatility to your toolkit
• Complete sets vs individual components – Multiclamp sets offer excellent value for equipping a new workshop, whilst individual clamps and replacement jaws allow you to expand or maintain existing equipment

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between rack clamps and F clamps?

Rack clamps feature all-metal construction without exposed threads, making them ideal for welding environments where spatter would damage traditional F clamps. The rack mechanism also allows faster jaw positioning than screw-thread clamps.

Can rack clamps be used for woodworking?

Whilst rack clamps are designed primarily for metalworking, they can be used on wood. However, their metal jaws may mark softer materials, so protective pads are recommended for woodworking applications.

Are Carver rack clamp components interchangeable?

Yes, Carver replacement bars and moveable jaws are designed to be interchangeable within their respective duty ratings, allowing you to customise capacity and replace worn components easily.