How Toggle Action Works?
Toggle action clamps operate through a linkage system of levers and pivots. The fixed-length levers, connected by pivot pins, supply the action and clamping force.
Toggle action has an over-center lock point which is a fixed stop and linkage. Once in the overcenter position, the clamp cannot move or unlock unless the linkage is moved. All types of toggle clamps have this same action, just oriented differently.
Toggle Action Force Factors
The maximum clamping or exerting force developed in any toggle action clamp is attained when the three pivot points of the mechanism are in a straight line.
While this is theoretically true, it makes no allowance for vibration and intermittent load conditions found in industrial applications. Such conditions would soon unlock an improperly designed clamp.
The proper amount of over-center travel to produce maximum holding force and yet ensure positive locking is a carefully calculated and controlled dimension developed by years of experimentation and experience.
Throughout this catalog each clamp is rated with its “holding capacity.” This is the maximum load or force the clamp will sustain in the closed and locked position without permanent deflection.
Exerting forces applied as the clamp closes are less than the holding capacity, and are dependent on variables such as the position
of the operator’s hand on the handle; amount of force applied; and position of the spindle on the bar.
Toggle Action Clamps Compared With Cam Action Clamps
Cam action uses frictional force to effect a locking condition between the cam surface on the bar and the follower on the handle.
Toggle action clamps have many advantages over cam action clamps, mainly because cam action clamps allow some movement
while clamping.
Toggle action clamps thus provide a more consistent clamping point, can be manufactured from inexpensive materials, and are available in stainless steel for outdoor or corrosive applications.
If the material being clamped has a variable thickness, however, a cam action clamp has the ability to better accommodate this application.
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