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How to Clamp With Metal Rod Extensions

Several applications make use of rod-type clamps, but none utilizes the rod clamps and extensions like laboratory equipment racks. There are many companies who make proprietary lab rack systems. Each system -- while its details may vary -- is a modular system used to quickly build armatures or racks to support a wide variety of lab equipment -- from beakers to torches and Bunsen burners.

Instructions

- 1
  Extend an inline section of rod with an extension clamp coupling, joining extension rods end-to-end or slightly offset, but parallel.
- 2
  Extend a perpendicular section of rod with a frame clamp. Frame clamps slide over a vertical section of rod -- allow you to tighten them -- providing the hook for the horizontal rod.
- 3
  Extend an odd angle -- that's neither parallel, inline nor perpendicular -- with an angle swivel clamp. Angle swivel clamps essentially give you a universal joint that can be adjusted and locked into any angled position you require.
- 4
  Fasten multiple inline couplings and frame clamps to the rods to create any size rectangular or geometric-shaped frame that suits your application.
- 5
  Attach the holders to your frame. These can be whatever you specifically require; test tube holders, burette clamps and thermometer clamps are common choices.
- 6
  Replace any sections of your frame, or the armatures that secure the accessory-holders with longer rods to suit your needs. These systems are designed to be flexible and rapidly adjustable. They generally have convenient finger adjustments, so they don't require hand tools when the setup needs to be reconfigured.

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