5/16" to 7/8" #6 Stainless Steel Worm Gear Hose Clamp with Carbon Screw
The Bluefin HCL6 is a worm gear hose clamp designed to secure hose connections from 5/16 inch up to 7/8 inch in diameter. This #6 size clamp features a stainless steel band paired with a carbon steel screw, delivering corrosion resistance where the band contacts the hose while keeping the fastener affordable and serviceable. It's built for HVAC technicians, plumbers, and maintenance professionals who need a reliable, adjustable clamp for water lines, drain hoses, and light-duty fluid connections. The worm gear mechanism allows precise tightening and re-adjustment without removing the clamp, so you can dial in the exact tension your application demands.
Key Features & Benefits
Compatibility & Requirements
This clamp works with any flexible hose or tubing that falls within the 5/16 inch to 7/8 inch outer diameter range, including PVC, rubber, vinyl, and polyethylene hose. It's commonly used on washing machine drain hoses, dishwasher connections, condensate lines, pool and spa plumbing, and light irrigation repairs. Because the screw is carbon steel, do not bury this clamp underground or submerge it in water for extended periods, as the screw will corrode. For buried or fully submerged applications, use an all-stainless clamp instead.
Installation & Care
Slip the clamp over the hose end before pushing the hose onto the barbed fitting or spigot. Position the clamp so the band covers the connection point, then tighten the screw with a flathead or hex-head screwdriver until the hose compresses snugly against the fitting. You should feel resistance but avoid over-tightening, which can damage thin-walled hose. The stainless band requires no maintenance, but if you're working in a humid or outdoor environment, periodically check the carbon screw for surface rust and replace the clamp if the threads show significant corrosion.
What's Included
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can you bury these clamps in the ground at 6 feet depth?
A: No, this clamp is not rated for burial. The carbon steel screw will corrode when exposed to soil moisture, even at shallow depths. The rate of deterioration depends on your soil composition, but underground use is not recommended. For buried applications, choose an all-stainless clamp with a stainless screw.
Q: What is the exact diameter range this #6 clamp covers?
A: The Bluefin HCL6 adjusts from a minimum of 5/16 inch to a maximum of 7/8 inch outer diameter. This fits hose sizes commonly found on appliance drains, condensate lines, and small irrigation connections.
Q: Is the entire clamp stainless steel?
A: The band is stainless steel, providing corrosion resistance where it contacts the hose. The tightening screw is carbon steel, which is strong and cost-effective but will rust if submerged or buried. This hybrid construction balances durability and price for above-ground indoor or outdoor applications where the screw stays dry.
Q: Can I reuse this clamp if I need to remove the hose?
A: Yes. The worm gear design lets you loosen the screw, slide the clamp off, and reinstall it on the same or a different hose. Unlike crimp clamps, which you cut off and discard, this clamp is fully adjustable and reusable as long as the threads and band remain intact.
Q: Will this clamp work on a washing machine drain hose?
A: Yes, if your washing machine drain hose outer diameter falls between 5/16 inch and 7/8 inch. Most standard washing machine drain hoses fit within this range, and the stainless band will resist corrosion from detergent residue and moisture. Confirm your hose diameter before ordering to ensure compatibility.
Q: What tool do I need to tighten this clamp?
A: You can tighten the carbon screw with a standard flathead screwdriver or a small socket wrench, depending on the screw head design. No special tools are required, and the installation takes seconds once the hose is positioned on the fitting.
Q: How tight should I make the clamp?
A: Tighten until the hose compresses visibly against the fitting and you feel firm resistance when turning the screw. Do not over-tighten, as excessive pressure can cut into thin-walled hose or distort the fitting. A snug fit that prevents the hose from slipping off under normal system pressure is the goal.
Q: Can I use this clamp outdoors?
A: Yes, for above-ground outdoor applications where the clamp is not submerged or buried. The stainless steel band resists rust from rain and humidity, but the carbon screw may develop surface corrosion over time if exposed to continuous moisture. Inspect the screw periodically and replace the clamp if rust compromises the threads.
Q: Does this clamp come with a warranty?
A: Bluefin provides warranty coverage on this clamp. Refer to the manufacturer warranty documentation included with your order for specific terms, coverage period, and claim procedures. SupplyHouse can assist with warranty questions if issues arise.
Q: How many clamps are included in one purchase?
A: Each unit is one individual clamp. You can purchase a box of 10 clamps at a discounted per-unit price if you need multiple clamps for a larger project or want to keep spares on hand.
| Max. Size: | 7/8" |
|---|---|
| Material: | Stainless Steel |
| Min. Size: | 5/16" |
| Screw Material: | Carbon |
Hi Brendon! No, unfortunately these can not be buried, they will deteriorate if left exposed. The rate of corrosion will vary based on your soil composition.