What Is BeamClamp Type BK1 — and Why It’s Ideal for Sloped or Tapered Steel?
Some jobs make you question your life choices.
You’re up against a sloped I-beam. The flange isn’t level. You’re short on tools, and you sure as hell don’t want to weld. Enter BeamClamp Type BK1 — a clamp built for exactly this mess.
It doesn’t complain, doesn’t slip, and doesn’t care how crooked that steel is. Just bolt it down and go.
Let’s dig into what makes the BK1 clamp the go-to for sloped steel, how it works, and why it might save your job (or at least your Friday afternoon).
Table of Contents
- What Is BeamClamp Type BK1?
- Why Standard Clamps Don’t Cut It
- Key Features of the BK1 Clamp
- When to Use a Type BK1 Clamp
- Spec Sheet Breakdown
- Selecting the Right Tail Length and Packers
- How to Install BeamClamp BK1 (No Fuss)
- Compared to Other BeamClamp Types
- FAQs About BK1 Clamps
What Is BeamClamp Type BK1?
The BK1 is a self-adjusting steel-to-steel clamp designed by LNA Solutions for sloped, tapered, or irregular flanges. Unlike flat clamp styles, it includes a special hemispherical washer that lets the body of the clamp rotate and seat itself properly — even on steel flanges sloped up to 15°.
It’s part of LNA’s BeamClamp® line, engineered for no-drill, no-weld steel connections. Just one bolt, a wrench, and you’re set.
Think about it like this: BK1 is the one clamp you want on-site when your steel isn’t playing nice.
Why Standard Clamps Don’t Cut It
Most clamps — even other BeamClamp types like BA or BB — expect a flat, uniform surface. You get anything less, and suddenly you’re shimming, swearing, or grabbing a welder.
But the BK1 clamp is built different. It swivels into position and eliminates the need for precise flange alignment or on-site modification. That means fewer headaches, faster installs, and safer connections.
Key Features of the BK1 Clamp
- Self-adjusting design — up to 15° of slope
- No special tools — installs with a basic wrench
- Reusable — unbolt and reuse on the next job
- Hot-Dip Galvanized — corrosion-resistant finish (why it matters)
- 5:1 safety factor — tested and approved by Lloyd’s Register
- Back tab on smaller sizes — fits into Unistrut framing
When to Use a Type BK1 Clamp
This isn’t a clamp for every job. It’s for the weird ones.
Use BK1 when:
- The flange is tapered, like an S-beam or crane rail
- The steel is inconsistent or not plumb
- You need temporary or adjustable rigging points
- There’s no access to power tools or hot work is prohibited
- You’re working with strut framing, Unistrut, or prefab racks
Spec Sheet Breakdown
Here’s what you’re working with on the BeamClamp BK1 series:
Source: LNA BeamClamp Catalog PDF
Selecting the Right Tail Length and Packers
If you’re near the upper limit (say, 1″ steel), LNA recommends using BF2 or BG2 packers. These extend the range without compromising safety. Need help figuring it out? Contact us.
How to Install BeamClamp BK1 (No Fuss)
1. Align the clamp with the flange and insert the bolt.
2. Rotate the washer so it seats into the sloped flange.
3. Tighten the bolt to spec torque — that’s it.
Compared to Other BeamClamp Types
Here’s how BK1 stacks up:
| Clamp Type | Best For | Max Slope | Tools Needed | Notes |
| BK1 | Sloped/tapered steel | 15° | Wrench only | Self-adjusting; no plates |
| BA/BB | Flat flanges | <5° | Wrench + shims | Needs accurate fit |
| BE1/BE2 | Unknown flange sizes | Flat | Allen key | Adjustable via socket screw |
| Welding | Permanent applications | Any | Welder, PPE | Hot work; not removable |
| Drilling | Bolt-through joins | Any | Drill, bits | Damages existing steel |
For sloped conditions, the BK1 wins. No other clamp gives you this level of adjustability and simplicity.
FAQs About BK1 Clamps
Q: Are BK1 clamps seismic rated?
They aren’t ICC-rated like BoxBolt Type C, but they’re widely used in structural steel applications. Always verify with a structural engineer.
Q: Where can I get technical specs or order BK1?
Contact LNA Solutions or call 888-724-2323.
Q: Are BK1 clamps seismic rated?
They aren’t ICC-rated like BoxBolt Type C, but they’re used in many structural steel applications. Always check with a structural engineer if seismic loads apply.
Q: Can I use the BK1 clamp upside down?
Technically, yes. But make sure the washer seats correctly. For overhead or ceiling applications, use with caution and verify load direction.
Q: Can I order BK1 in stainless steel?
Currently, the BK1 is available in hot-dip galvanized only. For stainless applications, consider BoxBolt or specialty BeamClamp variants.
Last reviewed: June 6, 2025
