How to Choose the Right Hose Clip and Clamp Selection Box

Matt Donnelly

June 13, 2025

How to Choose the Right Hose Clip and Clamp Selection Box

Whether you’re a professional, or a casual hose-tinkerer, selection boxes offer a convenient alternative to purchasing multiple packs of hose clips and clamps.

In this article, we’ll cover the types of clamps and clips found in selection boxes, and provide guidance on how to pick the right selection box for your needs. Keep reading to learn more…

Types of hose clamps and clips

Hose clamps and clips come in many forms, used to secure and seal hoses in all range of applications. Different models suit different operating conditions, so getting the right clamp or clip is key to a functioning system.

Hose clamps

Worm gear / worm drive hose clamps

These use a band with slots and a worm-drive screw. The screw tightens the band evenly around the hose to create a hi-torque seal. The term “worm drive” refers to the helical-threaded screw. The design is simple to use, and is gentle on soft materials. Popular examples include the Jubilee type and the Hi-Grip Worm Drive Hose Clip.

T-bolt hose clamps

These clamps feature a T-shaped bolt that fits into a slot on the band. A hex nut is used to tighten the bolt to create a powerful and reliable clamp force. It is often used in high vibration conditions, like securing exhausts, turbos, and intercoolers, suiting hoses with large bore diameters. However, there is a higher risk of overtightening.

Wire hose clamp / spring wire clamps

Wire hose clamps use a flexible wire or spring to form a circular shape when installed. Their make is usually of corrosion-resistant materials, and are often chosen for high-pressure applications. Installation and removal are quick, making them common in automotive settings where double wire spring clamps are used.

Perforated band hose clamps

These types of clamps are very common, combining a perforated band with a worm drive mechanism to allow for easy tightening without breakage or slipping. They are usually found in standard hose clamp sets used for general purposes.

Embossed band hose clamps

Embossed band hose clamps carry an embossed drive that guides the worm screw. One side of the band is smooth with rounded edges, while the wider band gives a stronger clamping force. They work well for leak-proof connections with barbed fittings, and are common in both automotive and household plumbing applications.

Air hose / double bolt clamps

Air hose clamps consist of two cadmium-plated half clamps held together by two screws. The inner design secures claw couplings. They are used primarily on compressed air hoses, but can also work with high-pressure water lines.

Polymer hose clamps

These clamps are made from flexible plastic materials. They are lightweight and offer excellent corrosion resistance, suiting applications where metal-to-hose contact could cause damage.

Screw / bolt hose clamps

Screw clamps use a band that encircles the hose. The band carries a screw thread pattern for adjustable tightening, similar to worm drive clamps. Their effectiveness depends on the quality of machining and material.

Pipe tube clamps

Pipe tube clamps belong to a broader category. They secure pipes and tubes rather than flexible hoses. Designs include split ring, cushioned and u-bolt variants. They are commonly used in industrial and plumbing settings. A two-part design (body and cover) attaches the clamp around the pipe or tube to prevent movement and vibration.

Type	Key features	Examples
Worm gear / worm drive hose clamp	- band with slots and a worm-drive screw; - delivers hi-torque - secure seal	Jubilee type
T-bolt hose clamp	- T-shaped bolt with hex-nut tightening - high clamping force	Used in high-vibration, heavy-duty applications
Wire hose clamp / spring wire clamp	- flexible, circular design - corrosion-resistant - easy to install and remove	Common in automotive, high-pressure settings
Perforated band hose clamp	- perforated band with worm drive - easy tightening without breakage/slipping	Found in standard hose clamp sets
Embossed band hose clamp	- band with an embossed drive - smooth, rounded edge on the opposite side - wide band	Ideal for leak-proof barbed connections in plumbing and auto sectors
Air hose / double bolt clamp	- two-part metal halves joined by screws - designed for claw couplings	Used on compressed air hoses and high-pressure water lines
Polymer hose clamp	- made from advanced polymers - lightweight - corrosion resistant	Suitable in applications where metal may cause surface damage
Screw / bolt hose vlamp	- threaded adjustable design similar to worm drive - precise tightening	General-use hose applications
Pipe tube clamp	- two-part clamp for pipes/tubes - includes split ring, cushioned or u-bolt designs	Used in industrial plumbing and fixed piping systems

Hose clips

Ear O clips

Ear O clips feature one or two small “ears” that must be pinched together. They require special pliers to set, which creates a permanent, secure seal. Removal generally needs cutting. These clips are preferred when a fixed, unyielding connection is required.

Herbie clips

Herbie clips are defined by their ratcheting teeth. They are usually made of nylon or stainless steel, offering a strong grip without corrosion risks. The clamp is tightened by squeezing the ends together. They are used where a non-corrosive, robust lock is required.

Jubilee clips

Jubilee clips have a mechanism for rapid opening and closing. They do not require tools. This design suits applications that need frequent maintenance or fast adjustments.

Type	Key features	Examples
Ear O clips	- one or two pinching “ears” for permanent hold - requires special pliers	Stainless Steel Double Ear Clips, used for fixed setups
Herbie clips	- ratcheting teeth - made from nylon or stainless steel - strong and compact	Used where a quick, non-corrosive, secure grip is needed
Jubilee clips	- fast tool-free operation - rapid open/close mechanism	Ideal for frequent maintenance applications

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Materials used for hose clips and clamps

Materials play a key role in performance. The choice of material affects durability, corrosion resistance and strength. The following sections detail the most common materials used.

Stainless steel is highly durable and resistant to corrosion, making it ideal for demanding conditions such as moisture and harsh chemicals. Various grades exist:

W1 parts are zinc-plated steel and may corrode in salt spray tests.
W2 uses a mix of AISI 430 stainless for the band with a zinc-plated screw.
Higher grades such as W3, W4 and W5 are almost entirely stainless.

Mild steel is strong and cost-effective, often used in automotive and industrial settings. To improve its corrosion resistance, mild steel is typically zinc-plated or galvanised. It does not rival stainless steel in harsh conditions, and it may eventually corrode in damp environments.
Brass has excellent corrosion resistance and is beloved for its aesthetic appeal. Commonly used in plumbing and decorative applications, brass clamps are reliable where water exposure is regular. Their appearance makes them suitable for visible installations. However, brass may not offer the same mechanical strength as steel.
Nylon is a lightweight, non-corrosive material that provides electrical insulation and reduces the risk of surface damage. These clamps are great in settings where it is important to avoid scratches or dents. They are not generally used for high-pressure applications but work well for light industrial or domestic tasks.

Material	Properties	Common uses
Stainless steel	- durable - highly corrosion-resistant - available in graded finishes (W1–W5)	Marine, industrial and automotive use
Mild steel	- strong - cost-effective - often zinc-plated or galvanised	Automotive parts, industrial settings with moderate conditions
Brass	- excellent corrosion resistance - attractive finish	Plumbing systems, decorative applications
Nylon	- lightweight - non-corrosive - provides electrical insulation	Areas prone to scratching, light industrial and domestic use

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Selecting the right selection box

When choosing the right selection box for your hose management system, there are some key points you want to consider to make sure it is the right box for you:

Clamp/clip size

Getting the right size is a must-have. Measure the external diameter of the hose while it is fitted. The attachments provided in the box should be chosen so that the hose diameter lies near the middle of the clamp’s specified range.

If in doubt, check the size charts and specifications provided by the manufacturer.

Pressure rating

Pressure rating shows the maximum pressure that the attachment can reliably handle. Choose a box with attachments featuring a rating that exceeds the system’s operating pressure.

A clamp rated too low can result in leaks or failures. For pressures over 10 bar, the selection must be made carefully. Always match the pressure requirements to the clamp’s specifications.

Material compatibility

The material of the clamps and clips available in the selection box must be compatible with the substances it contacts. Think about both the fluid in the hose and the ambient environment. Material compatibility prevents accelerated wear or chemical degradation.

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Shop the best selection boxes at The Hosemaster

Now that you are armed with the knowledge of hose management, you’re ready to find your next of hose selection box. At The Hosemaster, we stock a huge range of hoses, fittings, and hardware for any situation.

We have decades of experience within the hose industry, which means you not only have access to superb supplies, but also expert advice when you require it. If you have any further questions, you can get in touch with our team online, or give us a call on 01282 604 002.