Malleable Cast Iron vs. All-Steel: Which BESSEY clamp is right for your project?
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Malleable cast iron screw clamps or all-steel screw clamps? This is a question many craftsmen ask themselves when choosing the right clamping tool. Both types of clamps from BESSEY have their specific strengths and areas of application. The decisive difference: Malleable cast iron screw clamps clamp rigidly, while all-steel screw clamps clamp resiliently. In this guide, we compare both types directly and show you which screw clamp is the right choice for your application.
The decisive difference: Rigid vs. Resilient
Malleable Cast Iron Screw Clamps (TG Series) - Rigid Clamping
With rigid clamping, the pressure remains constant, even if the material settles or works minimally. Ideal for woodworking, where a uniform, firm pressure is required.
All-Steel Screw Clamps (GZ Series) - Resilient Clamping
With resilient clamping, the clamp compensates for small movements and settling of the material. This protects sensitive workpieces and is particularly important for metal and mixed materials. It also prevents loosening due to vibrations.
Malleable Cast Iron Screw Clamps (TG Series) in Detail

Suitable for: Rigid clamping in woodworking.
The malleable cast iron screw clamps offer:
Advantages:
- ✅ Up to 6,000 N clamping force
- ✅ Rigid clamping - ideal for woodworking
- ✅ Proven durability since 1936
- ✅ Wide range of sizes (50 mm to 1500 mm clamping width)
- ✅ Various handle options: 2-component handle, toggle handle, wooden handle
Ideal for:
- Woodworking and carpentry
- Gluing work
- Furniture making
- Projects requiring firm, rigid pressure
All-Steel Screw Clamps (GZ Series) in Detail

Suitable for: Resilient clamping for woodworking and metalworking.
The all-steel screw clamps offer:
Advantages:
- ✅ Up to 8,000 N clamping force
- ✅ Resilient clamping - protects sensitive workpieces
- ✅ Versatile for wood AND metal
- ✅ Extremely robust due to all-steel construction
- ✅ High torsional rigidity
- ✅ Durable and low-maintenance
Ideal for:
- Woodworking
- Metalworking
- Welding work
- Versatile workshop tasks
- Projects requiring resilient pressure
Direct Comparison: Malleable Cast Iron vs. All-Steel
| Property | Malleable Cast Iron Screw Clamps | All-Steel Screw Clamps |
|---|---|---|
| Clamping Type | Rigid | Resilient |
| Clamping Force | Up to 6,000 N | Up to 8,000 N |
| Main Application | Woodworking | Wood and Metalworking |
| Material | Malleable Cast Iron | All-Steel |
| Special Feature | Constant pressure | Compensating pressure, vibration-proof |
Decision Guide: Which Clamp for Which Application?
| Application | Recommended Clamp | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Woodworking / Gluing | Malleable Cast Iron TG | Rigid clamping, constant pressure |
| Metalworking | All-Steel GZ | Resilient clamping, versatile |
| Wood and Metalwork | All-Steel GZ | Universally applicable, resilient |
| Welding work | All-Steel GZ | Heat-resistant, extremely stable, resilient |
| Furniture making | Malleable Cast Iron TG | Rigid clamping, various sizes |
Important Selection Criteria
1. Clamping Width
Consider the maximum width you need to clamp. BESSEY offers clamping widths from 50 mm to 1500 mm.
2. Clamping Force
Depending on the material and application, you need different clamping forces:
- Light work: 2,000-4,000 N
- Medium work: 4,000-6,000 N
- Heavy work: 6,000-8,000 N
3. Reach
The reach determines how far you can clamp from the edge. Choose the reach according to your workpieces.
4. Clamping Type: Rigid or Resilient?
- Rigid (Malleable Cast Iron): For woodworking, constant pressure
- Resilient (All-Steel): For wood and metal, compensating pressure
Conclusion: Malleable Cast Iron or All-Steel?
The choice between malleable cast iron and all-steel screw clamps depends on your material and application:
- Only woodworking? Choose malleable cast iron screw clamps for rigid clamping
- Wood AND metal? Choose all-steel screw clamps for resilient, versatile clamping
If you have any questions about choosing the right BESSEY screw clamp, please do not hesitate to contact us!