About the Altman 3" Heavy-Duty Iron C-Clamp
The Altman 3" Heavy-Duty Iron C-Clamp is a robust, professional-grade rigging clamp designed for securely suspending theatrical and studio lighting fixtures from pipes, trusses, or other structural members. Constructed from forged malleable iron, this clamp offers exceptional strength and durability, making it a trusted standard in the entertainment lighting industry for both permanent installations and touring applications. Its 3-inch jaw capacity allows it to firmly grip standard 1.5-inch OD (outside diameter) schedule 40 steel pipe, which is the most common hanging pipe size in theaters and venues. The clamp's design ensures a secure, non-slip hold, with a deep-throated "C" shape that provides stability and reduces the risk of the clamp rocking or twisting under load.
The clamp features a heavy-duty 3/8-inch steel eyebolt that serves as the primary attachment point for the lighting fixture's yoke. This eyebolt can be tightened or loosened with a standard wrench to adjust the fixture's angle. The main clamping force is applied via a 1/2-inch diameter forged steel bolt and nut, which is turned with a wrench to securely fasten the clamp to the pipe. Many models include a secondary safety feature, such as a drilled hole in the bolt to accommodate a safety cable or a cotter pin, providing an additional level of protection against accidental loosening. The clamp's black finish helps minimize light reflection in performance environments.
As a fundamental piece of hardware in stage rigging, the Altman C-Clamp is valued for its simplicity, reliability, and proven safety record. It is an essential tool for lighting technicians, enabling the safe and precise hanging of luminaires for concerts, theater productions, television studios, and architectural lighting installations.