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Specification Details Types Round bend, square bend, semi-round Materials Mild steel zinc plated, A2 stainless, A4 stainless, HDG Pipe sizes M6 x 15mm NB to M20 x 250mm NB Standards BS 3974 (pipe supports) Applications Pipe clamps, exhaust hangers, leaf spring mounts
What are U-Bolts?
U-Bolts are mechanical
fasteners consisting of a U-shaped piece of metal with two straight legs that bend back and overlap to form a bolt hole. They're commonly used for securing pipes, hoses, and cables in place.
Types and Variants
U-Bolts come in various types based on their shape:
Round Bend : These have rounded corners between the U-shape and the straight part of the legs.Example: M10 x 50mm round bend, suitable for pipe clamps up to 20mm diameter.
Square Bend : The transition from the U-shape to the straight leg is sharp and square.Example: M8 x 30mm square bend, used in leaf spring mounts with a load rating of 15kN.
Semi-Round (or Semi-Circular) : This type has slightly rounded corners but not as pronounced as round bend.Example: M6 x 20mm semi-round, ideal for exhaust hangers with a temperature range up to 450°C. Materials and Specifications
U-Bolts are made from different materials each with its own advantages:
Mild Steel Zinc Plated (EN10248) : Economical option with corrosion resistance.Example: EN10248 grade M6 x 30mm mild steel zinc plated, suitable for indoor applications.
A2 Stainless Steel (A2-70) : Resistant to corrosion and high temperatures.Example: A2-70 grade U-Bolt in size M10 x 50mm, used in marine environments with a load rating of up to 35kN.
A4 Stainless Steel (A4-80) : Superior corrosion resistance compared to A2.Example: A4-80 grade M16 x 75mm U-Bolt for use in chemical processing plants with a pressure range of up to 25 bar.
Hot-Dip Galvanized (HDG) : Provides excellent protection against atmospheric corrosion.Example: HDG grade U-Bolt size M14 x 60mm, ideal for outdoor pipe clamps with a temperature range from -30°C to +500°C. Selection Criteria
Choosing the right U-Bolt involves considering several factors:
Pipe Diameter : Ensure that the U-Bolts' inner diameter matches or slightly exceeds the pipe's outer diameter.Load Requirements : Check the load rating against the application's requirements, typically found in manufacturer specifications.Environmental Conditions : Select materials based on environmental exposure (e.g., salt water, high humidity).Installation Space : Consider the space available for installation and ensure the U-Bolt fits properly.UK Suppliers
MLC lists verified suppliers from Companies House that offer a wide range of U-Bolts. For instance:
CBM LtdBIAFD (British and Irish Association of Fastener Distributors)BTMA (British Turned Parts Manufacturers Association)Common Applications
U-Bolts are widely used in various industries:
Pipe Clamps : Secure pipes to supports, ensuring stability and preventing movement. They adhere to BS 3974 standards.Exhaust Hangers : Used in automotive exhaust systems to support heavy components and absorb vibrations.Leaf Spring Mounts : Critical for vehicles where U-Bolts secure leaf springs to the chassis.With proper selection based on material, load requirements, and environmental conditions, U-Bolts can provide reliable support across different applications.
Profiled UK Suppliers Company Company No. Location Beck Prosper Limited 05285967 Building 19 First Avenue, The Pensnett Estate, Kin Avdel Uk Limited 00315076 43 Hardwick Grange, Woolston, Warrington, WA1 4RF Lonestar Uk Holdco Limited 06458828 Universal Point, Steelmans Road, Wednesbury, West Precision Thread Rolling Ltd 03914904 75-97 Walsall Road, Perry Barr, Birmingham , B42 1T Guru Nanak Aerospace Uk Ltd 12348300 Unit 4b Brookside, Friar Street, Wednesbury, WS10
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Frequently Asked Questions Where can I buy U-Bolts in the UK? MLC lists verified UK u-bolts suppliers with Companies House data. Browse by product category or search by location.
What are U-Bolts used for in engineering applications? U-Bolts are used in engineering to secure pipes, hoses, and cables. They conform to BS 3974 standards for pipe supports.
Which types of U-Bolts exist based on their shape? U-Bolts come in round bend and square bend variants. Round bend U-Bolts have rounded corners, while square bend ones feature sharp transitions from the U-shape to the straight leg.
How do you choose between mild steel and stainless steel U-Bolts? Choose mild steel U-Bolts for general applications where cost is a factor, and opt for A2 or A4 stainless steel U-Bolts in environments with corrosive conditions due to their superior resistance.
What pipe sizes are compatible with U-Bolts listed on mlc.org.uk? Pipe sizes range from M6 x 15mm nominal bore (NB) up to M20 x 250mm NB, suitable for various pipe clamps and supports.
Are there specific standards that apply to U-Bolts in the UK? Yes, U-Bolts conform to BS 3974 standards for pipe supports in the UK.
Where can I find UK suppliers of U-Bolts? You can find reliable UK suppliers by visiting mlc.org.uk, which lists various types and materials suitable for different applications.
What is the cost range for U-Bolts in the UK market? The cost varies depending on material type and size. Mild steel zinc-plated U-Bolts are generally more affordable than stainless steel options like A2 or A4 grades.
How do I determine which U-Bolt variant to use based on application requirements? For securing pipes in general environments, round bend mild steel U-Bolts might suffice. In corrosive settings requiring durability, choose square bend A2 or A4 stainless steel U-Bolts for better performance and longevity.
