{"id":16998,"date":"2026-04-28T15:13:37","date_gmt":"2026-04-28T14:13:37","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.fhbrundle.co.uk\/lp\/?page_id=16998"},"modified":"2026-04-28T16:29:22","modified_gmt":"2026-04-28T15:29:22","slug":"key-clamps-tube-clamps","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.fhbrundle.co.uk\/lp\/product-range-overviews\/key-clamps-tube-clamps\/","title":{"rendered":"Key Clamps [F.H.Brundle]"},"content":{"rendered":"

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Tube Clamps: The Most Versatile Solution?<\/h1>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>

What are Tube Clamps?<\/h2>\n<\/div>

Tube clamps<\/u><\/a> <\/b>\u2014 also widely known as key clamps <\/b>or tube fittings \u2014 are a system of ductile steel fittings that grip onto standard-diameter galvanised steel tube using grub screws tightened with an Allen key or ratchet key. No welding, threading, bending or special tools are required. The result is a modular, bolt-together tubular framework that can be assembled and reconfigured in minutes, making tube clamps one of the most versatile structural fittings on the market.<\/p>\n

F.H.Brundle<\/b> supplies a comprehensive range of tube clamp fittings<\/u><\/a> compatible with all tube component systems including Key Clamp. Fittings are available for 26.9mm OD, 33.7mm OD, 42.4mm OD, 48.3mm and 60.3mm OD galvanised tube<\/u><\/a>, supplied in 6.5 m lengths or cut to size. The range carries DDA<\/u><\/a> (Disability Discrimination Act) compliance and meets Part M of the Building Regulations when used with 42.4mm OD tube as a continuous smooth handrail.<\/p>\n<\/div>

View the range of Tube Clamps<\/span><\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div>
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What are the choices when it comes to Tube Clamps & Key Clamps?<\/p>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>

At F.H.Brundle<\/b>, we offer an extensive selection of tube clamp fittings, galvanised tube and accessories. Fittings are available in a standard hot-dip galvanised finish for maximum corrosion resistance, and many fittings are also stocked in polyester powder-coated black<\/u><\/a> (RAL 9005) or other RAL colours to suit architectural and design requirements. Fittings range from simple single-socket end caps and rail ends, through to multi-way crosses, adjustable elbows, swept tees, reducers, floor flanges, wall flanges and flexible joint fittings \u2014 providing a comprehensive system for almost any tubular structure.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>

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Feature Category<\/span><\/th>\nKey Benefit<\/span><\/th>\nDetail<\/span><\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
No-Weld Installation<\/strong><\/td>\nSkill-Free Assembly<\/td>\nGrub screws are tightened with a standard Allen key or ratchet key. No welding, threading, brazing or specialist labour required \u2014 any competent tradesperson can build a complete structure.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Compliance<\/strong><\/td>\nDDA & Building Regulations Part M<\/td>\nThe 42.4mm OD system provides a continuous smooth handrail meeting DDA requirements and Part M of the Building Regulations for access to and use of buildings.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Finish & Corrosion Resistance<\/strong><\/td>\nGalvanised or Powder Coated<\/td>\nHot-dip galvanised fittings are suitable for indoor and outdoor use. Powder-coated black or RAL colour options give a decorative, durable finish with additional weather protection.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Versatility<\/strong><\/td>\nEndless Applications<\/td>\nFrom handrails and safety barriers to exhibition stands, goal posts, pergola frames, shelving, storage racks and playgrounds \u2014 tube clamps adapt to virtually any tubular construction task.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Adjustability<\/strong><\/td>\nFlexible & Reconfigurable<\/td>\nAdjustable elbow fittings allow any angle from 25\u00b0\u2013180\u00b0. Unlike welded or cast structures, a key clamp frame can be dismantled, extended or altered at any time, making it ideal for temporary or evolving installations.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Tube<\/strong> Sizes<\/strong><\/td>\nMultiple Diameters<\/td>\nFittings available to suit 26.9mm (A-tube), 33.7mm (B-tube), 42.4mm (C-tube), 48.3mm (D-Tube) and 60.3mm (E-tube) OD galvanised tube (equivalent to \u00be”, 1″, 1\u00bd”, 1\u00be” and 2 1\u20443″ nominal bore). Reducing fittings allow mixed-diameter structures.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Compatibility<\/strong><\/td>\nUniversal System<\/td>\nF.H.Brundle tube clamp fittings are compatible with all mainstream tube component systems including Key Clamp, enabling mixing of components from multiple sources within the same structure.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>
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“The growth in tube clamp handrail systems has been remarkable \u2014 the combination of DDA compliance, no-weld assembly and complete design flexibility has made key clamp the go-to solution for contractors and facilities managers who need a handrail or safety barrier installed quickly, compliantly and without specialist trades.”<\/i><\/p>\n<\/h4>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>

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Where can Tube Clamps & Key Clamps be used?<\/p>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>

The versatility of the tube clamp system means it genuinely covers almost every sector. Some of the most common applications stocked by F.H.Brundle<\/b> include:<\/p>\n

Safety & Access:<\/strong> Handrails and stair handrails are one of the principal uses \u2014 particularly in commercial and industrial premises where a DDA-compliant<\/u><\/a> or Part M-compliant handrail must be provided quickly without structural welding. Mezzanine handrails, roof edge guardrail<\/u><\/a>, loading bay barriers<\/u><\/a>, machine guards and pedestrian safety barriers are all built daily from key clamp components. The inherent strength and rigidity of steel fittings gripping schedule-pipe tube means these structures easily exceed the loading requirements of BS EN ISO 14122<\/i><\/b> and BS 6180<\/i><\/b> for guardrails.<\/p>\n

Construction & Industrial:<\/strong> Tube clamps are widely used to create temporary or permanent scaffold-style barriers, site safety fencing, warehouse pallet racking guards, column protectors and pallet gate<\/u><\/a> surrounds. The ease of disassembly makes them particularly popular where layouts change frequently or equipment needs to be installed around the structure after fabrication.<\/p>\n

Leisure & Sports:<\/strong> Goal post frames, tennis court surrounds, sports screens, concert staging, outdoor gym structures and play equipment all benefit from the lightweight yet robust nature of the tube clamp system. Where structures must be seasonal or temporary, key clamps are unrivalled.<\/p>\n

Retail & Display:<\/strong> Shop fitting, display racks, clothing rails, shelving systems, exhibition stands and billboard supports are frequently constructed from tube clamps \u2014 a reflection of how easily the system can be built and dismantled between shows or seasonal refits.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>

Order Tube Clamps for Delivery in 48 hours<\/span><\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div>
Use the Tube Clamp Selector Tool<\/span><\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>

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Why are Tube Clamps so ubiquitous?<\/p>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>

Three drivers are behind the sustained increase in demand for tube clamps and key clamp fittings:<\/span><\/p>\n

(1) Compliance without complexity:<\/strong> As awareness of DDA obligations, Building Regulations Part M and workplace safety legislation (including the Work at Height Regulations and BS EN ISO 14122<\/em>) has grown, so has demand for a handrail and guardrail solution that is provably compliant out of the box. The 42.4mm OD tube clamp system satisfies the smooth-continuous-handrail requirement in a single product selection, removing risk and design effort from the contractor or specifier.<\/p>\n

(2) Speed and flexibility of installation:<\/strong> Because no hot work is involved, tube clamp structures can be erected in areas where welding is forbidden (food production facilities, healthcare, clean rooms, occupied buildings and fire-risk environments). An experienced operative can install a complete multi-bay handrail run, mezzanine guardrail or safety barrier in a fraction of the time of a welded equivalent \u2014 dramatically reducing labour cost and site disruption.<\/p>\n

(3) Long-term value and sustainability:<\/b> Hot-dip galvanised tube clamp fittings are inherently corrosion resistant, extending service life well beyond uncoated steel structures. Critically, the system is fully reusable: when a layout changes or a structure is decommissioned, fittings and tube can be dismantled and redeployed elsewhere, minimising waste and delivering a lower total cost of ownership compared to disposable or fixed fabrications.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>

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How to buy.<\/h3>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>

Now you have a clear picture of the benefits and applications of tube clamps and key clamps, here is how to approach your purchase:<\/span><\/p>\n

(1) Measure your run and identify your application.<\/strong> Begin by measuring the total length of handrail, guardrail or barrier you need to create. Sketch out the layout, marking any changes of direction, staircase angles, floor-to-wall transitions and post spacings. This plan will determine the number and type of fittings required. If you need additional support and guidance, we’ve created a calculator and design tool within Liveconfigurator<\/u><\/i><\/b><\/a>.<\/p>\n

(2) Choose your tube diameter.<\/strong> Select the tube OD that matches your application and compliance requirement. For DDA or Part M handrails use 42.4mm OD tube<\/strong><\/em>. For lighter-duty shop fittings, shelving or display frames, 33.7mm or even 26.9mm may be more appropriate. Heavy industrial barriers or outdoor goal post structures often suit 48.3mm OD.<\/p>\n

(3) Select your fittings.<\/strong> Using your plan, identify the fittings you need: single-socket rail ends<\/strong> for terminating a run; single-socket tees<\/strong> for intermediate posts; elbows<\/strong> (fixed 90\u00b0 or adjustable) for changes of direction; long-radius swept tees<\/strong> for handrail branches; floor flanges<\/strong> and wall flanges<\/strong> for post bases and wall connections; and adjustable joint fittings<\/strong> to follow staircases or raking slopes. Use the F.H.Brundle Tube Clamp Selector<\/u><\/a> for guidance. You will also find a range of pre-assembled posts<\/b><\/u><\/a> which will further reduce install and labour time.<\/p>\n

(4) Choose your finish.<\/strong> Standard fittings are supplied in hot-dip galvanised<\/strong> finish \u2014 ideal for any application and ready to use. If aesthetics are a priority, select powder-coated black (RAL 9005)<\/strong> fittings and matching tube, or order galvanised components and paint to any RAL colour of your choice.<\/p>\n<\/div>

Easy-to-order Metre Rates<\/span><\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>

FAQs<\/h3>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>