What Are Insulated U Bolts?
Insulated U bolts are specialized fasteners with non-conductive sleeves (Rubber, PTFE, or plastic and so on) that wrap around the U bolt’s curve and threads. Unlike standard U bolts, they prevent electrical conductivity between metals while securing pipes, cables, or equipment. The insulation sleeve acts as a barrier to block galvanic corrosion (electrolytic reactions between dissimilar metals) and dampens vibrations by absorbing shock.
Commonly used in marine, oil/gas, and renewable energy projects, these bolts isolate structures exposed to saltwater, chemicals, or high-voltage environments. For example, they prevent rust on ship hulls by separating stainless steel bolts from aluminum fittings, or protect solar panel mounts from grounding faults. Key materials like EPDM rubber (weather-resistant) and PTFE (chemical-resistant) ensure durability in temperatures from -40°C to 260°C. Insulated U bolts comply with ASTM/ISO standards, making them essential for safety-critical installations where electrical isolation and corrosion resistance are non-negotiable.
Insulated U bolts are known as insulated U bolt pipe clamps also.
Insulated U bolts Technical Specifications
Younglee is a leading manufacturer of insulated U bolts engineered to secure critical infrastructure in harsh environments. Our insulated U bolts provide electrolytic corrosion prevention by isolating dissimilar metals, alongside electrical insulation, vibration dampening, and long-term corrosion protection. Specifically designed for shipbuilding, offshore oil platforms, FPSO/FSO projects, and subsea pipelines, these U bolts eliminate galvanic degradation risks caused by saltwater exposure. Trusted in marine engineering, solar farms, and heavy industries, Younglee’s insulated U bolts exceed ASTM/ISO standards for safety and salt spray resistance.
Here below is the common specifications of the insulated U bolts we manufacture.
Name | Details |
Sizes | Fit for pipe size OD 1/2″ to 36″(DN15-DN900), U bolt dia 1/4″ to 2″ (M6 to M56) |
Material | Carbon steel (HDG coated) / Stainless steel 304/316 / Alloy steel |
Insulation Sleeve | EPDM, Neoprene, or Silicone Rubber (flame-retardant options available); PTFE(Teflon) coated, Plastics as PVC and so on. |
Temperature Range | -40°F to 250°F (-40°C to 120°C) |
Standards | ASTM A 193 B7 /ASTM A194 2H, ASTM A320 B8M/ASTM A194 8M, ASTM A320 B8/ A194 8, ASTM A320 L7/ASTM A194 7, ASTM A325, ASTM A307, A153, ASME B18.2.6, ISO 4032, and so on. |
Surface Coating | Hot dipped Galvanized(HDG) for non-stainless steels, PTFE coated (as Xylan 1014, Xylan 1024, Xylan 1070 and so on) for stainless steels U bolts. |
Certifications | ISO 9001, RoHS compliant, salt spray tested (2,000+ hours) |
Main type of insulate U bolts
Here below are the main types of the insulated U bolts Younglee manufactures.
By installtion type:
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Grip type insulated U bolts
Our Grip-Type Insulated U-Bolt Pipe Clamps minimize vibration transfer and prevent galvanic corrosion between pipes and hangers. Designed with EPDM/Neoprene sleeves, they isolate dissimilar metals, ideal for marine, chemical, and HVAC systems. The grip configuration securely holds pipes while allowing small axial and torsional movements, accommodating thermal expansion or mechanical stress. Made from hot-dip galvanized steel or stainless steel 304/316, these clamps ensure durability in harsh environments, offering a reliable, maintenance-free solution for long-term performance.
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Non-grip type insulated U bolts
Non-grip type U bolts are known as guide type U bolts too. it is a specialized insulated U bolt designed to secure pipes or cables while allowing controlled linear movement along a fixed axis. Unlike grip-type U bolts, it does not tightly clamp the pipe but instead uses a loose fit or PTFE-lined channel to guide the pipe during thermal expansion or contraction. This design prevents stress on the piping system while maintaining alignment.
Commonly used in HVAC, industrial piping, and marine applications, guide-type U bolts are made from hot-dip galvanized steel or stainless steel for corrosion resistance. They are ideal for systems requiring flexibility, such as steam lines or chilled water pipes, ensuring long-term reliability without compromising structural integrity.
By insulate materials:
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Rubber insulated U Bolts
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EPDM Rubber Insulated U Bolts
- Weather-resistant and UV-stable, ideal for outdoor applications like solar farms and marine structures.
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Neoprene Insulated U Bolts
- Oil and chemical-resistant, commonly used in industrial and automotive environments.
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Silicone Rubber Insulated U Bolts
- Heat-resistant up to 260°C, suitable for high-temperature applications such as HVAC systems.
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This type of U bolts also are known as Rubber coated U bolts or U bolts with rubber sleeve.
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PTFE (Teflon) Insulated U Bolts
- High-temperature and chemical-resistant, perfect for harsh environments like chemical plants.
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Plastic-Coated Insulated U Bolts
- Lightweight and cost-effective, used for electrical insulation in low-stress environments.
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Flame-Retardant Insulated U Bolts
- Designed with fire-resistant materials (e.g., flame-retardant EPDM), essential for safety-critical installations.
By U bolt materials and its coating:
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Hot-Dip Galvanized Insulated U Bolts
- Zinc-coated for enhanced corrosion resistance, ideal for marine and offshore applications.
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Stainless Steel Insulated U Bolts
- Made from 304/316 stainless steel for maximum durability in corrosive environments like saltwater.
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FluoroPolymer Coated U bolts
- Xylan coated U bolts, PTFE coated U bolts,
Other:
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Custom-Shaped Insulated U Bolts
- Tailored to fit unique pipe or cable configurations, often used in specialized industrial projects.
We manufacture a wide range of insulated U bolts according to customers’ requirements, specifications and drawings.
Why Choose Our Insulated U Bolts?
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Electrical Insulation
- Dielectric rubber sleeves (EPDM/neoprene) prevent galvanic corrosion and isolate electrical currents.
- Withstand voltages up to 15 kV/mm – perfect for securing power lines, solar panel mounts, and telecom infrastructure.
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Corrosion Resistance
- Pipes are fully isolated from their supports to prevent electrolytic corrosion.
- Available in hot-dip galvanized steel (ASTM A153) or stainless steel 304/316 for harsh environments (marine, chemical plants, offshore platforms).
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Vibration & Noise Control
- Rubber sleeves absorb 70% of shock loads, reducing wear on pipes and machinery.
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Customizable Sizes
- Diameters: 1/4″ to 2″ (M6 to M56 metric) | Pipe compatibility: Up to 36″ (DN900).
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Prevents clamping damage
- our insulate U bolts can greatly prevent the clamping damages during the installation.
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Durable in use and maintenance free
Applications of Insulated U Bolts
- Electrical Systems: Secure high-voltage cables, grounding systems, and transformer mounts.
- Solar Energy: Mount solar panels without risk of electrical shorts.
- Marine & Offshore: Corrosion-resistant fasteners for FPSO/FSO projects, shipbuilding, oil rigs, and docks.
- HVAC & Plumbing: Vibration-proof pipe clamps for industrial ducting.
Key Advantages Over Standard U Bolts
✅ Galvanic Corrosion Prevention
Insulated sleeves eliminate metal-to-metal contact, extending equipment lifespan.
✅ UV & Chemical Resistance
EPDM/neoprene sleeves resist ozone, oils, and weathering.
✅ Custom Coatings
Optional PTFE (Teflon) or Xylan coatings for enhanced wear protection.
✅ Fast Global Delivery
Bulk orders shipped in 10-15 days – OEM/ODM supported.
FAQ: Insulated U Bolts
Q: Can I use insulated U bolts outdoors?
A: Yes! Our sleeves are UV-stable and rated for extreme temperatures.
Q: Do you provide silicone sleeves?
A: Yes – silicone sleeves are available for high-temperature applications (up to 260°C).
Q: Are these Insulated U bolts reusable?
A: Absolutely. The insulated sleeves are designed for repeated installations.
Request a Free Quote Today
Younglee supplies insulated U bolts to industries worldwide, from automotive to renewable energy. Contact us for:
- Custom sizes and materials
- Volume discounts
- Technical drawings review
📧 Email: [email protected]
📞 Phone: +86-18612706695