A Practical Guide to Choosing Formwork Clamps

Choosing the right accessories for construction formwork is a topic that comes up on every construction site. One of the most frequently asked questions among contractors and construction workers is: Is it worth paying extra for a wedge clamp, or is it better to stick with a traditional Rasto-type screw clamp?

This article, based on practical experience, testing and customer feedback, provides a detailed comparison of these two solutions.

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Formwork Clamps – What Are They Used for and How Do You Choose the Right One?

A formwork clamp is an essential component of any formwork system, allowing formwork panels to be joined quickly, securely and reliably. There are two main types available on the market:

• Screw clamps (Rasto type) – view product
• Wedge clamps (e.g. Baukrane) – view product

Both have their place on a construction site, but they differ not only in price but also in functionality.

Rasto-Type Screw Clamp – A Classic for Wall Formwork

The screw clamp, also known as a Rasto-type clamp, is a popular choice among construction teams. It is affordable, easy to use and compatible with popular formwork systems such as Rasto, MidiBOX, Bauframe and Bauframe-Alu. Made from galvanised steel, it provides a stable connection between panels and helps ensure tight joints.

Disadvantages of Screw Clamps

• They connect only two formwork panels and cannot accommodate infill strips without purchasing a larger clamp, which means additional product variants to manage on site.
• Installation and removal require a wrench and take time. On larger projects, this can significantly slow down the work.
• The threads can wear out or become damaged, making it necessary to invest in repair kits.

Baukrane Wedge Clamp – Flexibility and Strength on Site

A wedge clamp is a more advanced solution in terms of both price and functionality. Its wedge-locking mechanism pulls the panels more firmly together, making the formwork more stable and minimising the risk of concrete leakage through the joints.

What Else Do You Gain with a Wedge Clamp?

• The ability to insert an additional element between panels, such as a wooden infill strip up to 13.5 cm wide, without changing the clamp. This offers greater flexibility on every construction site.
• Quick installation and removal – all you need is a hammer; no wrench is required.
• One clamp, multiple applications. Fewer product variants and less logistical complexity.
• No thread-related problems. Unlike screw clamps, wedge clamps do not rely on threaded components that can wear out, reducing maintenance issues.
• Durability: hot-dip galvanised steel construction with high-strength jaws.

Although its name does not include the word “Rasto”, the Baukrane wedge clamp is fully compatible with popular formwork systems.

Baukrane Wedge Clamp Design – What Makes It Better?

• A robust steel body fitted with aligning jaws permanently attached to the body.
• A moving part that travels along a specially designed guide within the clamp body.
• The ability to accommodate compensating infill elements up to 13.5 cm wide between panels.
• Hot-dip galvanising for corrosion resistance and durability in demanding conditions.

How Does a Wedge Clamp Work?

1. Formwork panels are joined and secured using a specially shaped wedge.
2. Hammering the wedge locks it into the clamp body, tightening the jaws around the panels and creating a tight connection resistant to tensile forces.
3. To release the clamp, strike the wedge in the opposite direction. For safety, use both hands where possible.

Baukrane Wedge Clamp Options at Szaluj.pl

Our range also includes short and long adjustable clamps, as well as corner clamps designed for specific construction requirements and different formwork systems.

Summary – When Is It Worth Paying Extra for a Wedge Clamp?

If you are looking for a fast, reliable and versatile solution for wall formwork, want to reduce the number of product variants needed on site and need secure connections between panels, the Baukrane wedge clamp is well worth considering.

It is an investment that can pay off through fewer accessories to manage, faster installation and fewer maintenance issues.

Baukrane wedge clamps are available from stock at www.szaluj.pl and have been used on hundreds of construction sites across Poland.

Need Expert Advice?

Our Szaluj.pl specialists will be happy to advise you on which clamps to choose and how many you need for your formwork system.

Sklep@szaluj.pl

+48 570 555 580