U-bolts may appear simple, but the role of this material should not be underestimated. In fact, this element can be the difference between solid structures and on-site catastrophe. Usually, U-bolts are a jack-of-all trades in construction as they can offer a wide range of use. But most of the time, they are primarily used to support pipe works.

A U-bolt is a bolt bent into the shape of the letter “u”. It’s a curved bolt that has threads on each end which makes it fit perfectly around pipes or tubes. A major use of U-bolts is for hanging pipes. Because gravity can be hard on piping, the wrong setup can lead to disaster. By fixing a U-bolt to an overhead structure, beam, or ceiling, the risk of it happening can significantly reduce.

It can also work as a restraint. U-bolts keep piping from moving, banging into other structures, and wearing down. Aside from the mentioned features and functions of U-bolts, they are also common in building and construction applications like roofing and foundation stability. It can even secure motor and engine shaft components.

As U-bolts are now being used by a much wider market to clamp any kind of tubing, a more solid and convenient measurement system needs to be used. Five elements uniquely define any U-bolt namely material type, rod diameter, inside diameter, inside length, and thread dimensions.