Types of levers and handles in industrial machinery
Lever handles are essential to different machinery and equipment, covering everything from clamping and control, to repositioning and adjustments. In this guide, we’ll look at the types of levers and handles available, their functions, and how to choose the right one for your application to improve efficiency and performance. We’ll cover:
Introduction to levers in industrial machinery
Types of machine lever handles and their functions
Choosing the right lever for your machinery
Applications of levers in different industries
Introduction to levers in industrial machinery
Lever arms, lever handles, machine levers, clamping handles, or clamping levers. This essential component in industrial machinery is known by many names.
Lever handles provide ergonomic and efficient control, clamping, and adjustment of machine parts. They’re typically used in assembly lines, manufacturing setups, and precision equipment and allow operators to apply or release force quickly and accurately—often without the need for tools.
Easy to use, lever handles come in different types to suit various tasks, from locking mechanisms to fine tuning adjustments. Their intuitive design supports high-repeatability actions in environments where reliability and user comfort are critical.
Browse our range of clamping handles & indexing levers
Types of machine lever handles and their functions
Our machine levers come in different styles, from ergonomic tapered handles to compact teardrop designs.
Clamping levers
Typically used in machine assemblies, jigs and fixtures, access panels, and adjustable components. Clamping levers give you secure holding while allowing for easy repositioning or release. They’re ideal for machine maintenance and making adjustments.
Clamping levers are just one of the handle types our experts write about in What are the best handle types?
Clamping levers – tapered handle/threaded insert
Tapered female clamping handles feature a lift-and-rotate mechanism with a push-button release for easy adjustment. The tapered design gives you comfortable positioning and provides maximum leverage when used with male-threaded components. Glass-filled nylon.
Clamping levers – tapered handle/threaded stud
Tapered male clamping handles operate with a lift-and-rotate motion and include a push-button release for quick adjustments. Their tapered design offers optimal positioning and enhanced leverage when used with female-threaded components.
Glass-filled nylon.
Clamping levers – teardrop handle/threaded insert
Teardrop female clamping handles offer a lift-and-rotate mechanism. The push-button release enables easy adjustment. The teardrop shape offers comfortable positioning, maximum leverage, and a space-saving design that keeps the handle out of the way when not in use. Die cast zinc.
Browse our range of clamping levers – teardrop handle/threaded insert
Clamping levers – teardrop handle/threaded stud
Teardrop male clamping handles use a lift-and-rotate action with a push-button release for quick adjustment. The teardrop design provides optimal leverage, allows for precise positioning, and offers a compact profile that keeps the handle neatly out of the way. Die cast zinc.
Browse our range of clamping levers – teardrop handle/threaded stud
Control levers
Control levers are all about precise, reliable switching or movement—great for applications where the operator needs tactile feedback. These machine levers are typically used on industrial and manufacturing machinery, such as switching between machine settings. Control lever handles are also excellent for assembly lines and conveyor systems.
Control levers and knobs
Glass fiber control levers act as a positional switch on machines, so that the operator can easily alternate from one setting to another. These control levers are easily gripped and resistant to oil and grease. 30% reinforced glass fiber technopolymer.
Our control knobs are designed for precision and ergonomics. They provide a firm, comfortable grip for smooth, precise position adjustments. Aluminium.
Tension levers
Tension levers are used for consistent clamping force in confined or hard-to-reach spaces. They’re commonly found in machinery, enclosures, and industrial equipment. Designed for manual operation without tools, tension levers give you reliable holding power while allowing for quick adjustments or repositioning.
Fixed tension lever
Double clamping levers, also called double wing screws, feature two arms for better leverage. The longer arms allow tightening and loosening without the need for tools—ideal when space is restricted. Blue passivated steel.
Cam levers
Use cam levers for fast, tool-free adjustments and secure clamping. They're commonly used in machining setups, inspection fixtures, and equipment where parts need frequent repositioning. With a simple lift-and-lock motion, cam levers offer quick engagement and release, making them perfect for scenarios where speed and convenience are key—such as in production lines or assembly stations.
Eccentric cam lever – threaded insert
Internal thread cam clamps provide quick, tool-free fastening and loosening, while also allowing precise adjustment of the clamping force. Lifting the handle disengages the cam mechanism, without moving the insert. Nylon, die-cast zinc, stainless steel. Also available: adjustable cam lever with threaded stud made of aluminium.
Choosing the right lever for your machinery
Decide what factors matter the most to help you narrow your choice.
1. Function: clamping or control?
Use clamping levers or cam lever handles for machine maintenance and adjustments. They’re perfect for quick and repeated use.
Control levers are better for adjusting settings, toggling functions, or positioning components in machines.
2. Space
Tapered lever handles give you more leverage. They’re easier to grip, making them a great choice when space isn’t an issue..
If space is limited, go with teardrop handles or compact levers. They’re designed to save space and stay out of the way when not in use.
3. Tool-free operation
If quick changes or adjustments are needed without tools, use clamping levers with lift-and-rotate mechanisms.
4. Environment and material
Choose reinforced glass fiber levers for oily or greasy environments – we offer many great choices made in this material.
5. Frequent use
Consider prioritising ergonomics. Choose machine levers with shapes that offer a comfortable grip and reduce user fatigue.
Applications of levers in different industries
The versatility of lever arms makes them essential components across various industries that need mechanical advantage or precise motion control. Let’s look at examples.
1. Manufacturing & industrial machinery: Lever arms are used in machine guards, fixture plates, workholding setups, adjustable arms, and jigs. They allow for efficient and quick repositioning of components during setup or changeovers, reducing downtime on the production floor.
2. Agriculture: You’ll find lever arms working in equipment such as plows, seeders, and irrigation systems. They help move heavy parts and optimise hydraulic functions.
3. Sports & recreation equipment: Lever arms are perfect for bicycle seat and handlebar adjustments, and gym equipment settings. They provide quick, on-the-go, user convenience and the ability to customise without the need for wrenches or screwdrivers.
4. Automotive: Lever arms support braking systems, gear shifts, and suspension components. Their strength and precision are critical for safe, responsive, and smooth vehicle operation.
5. Medical & laboratory equipment: Lever arms enable height adjustment on applications that need precise repositioning, such as stands and securing parts on microscopes or lab setups. They’re ergonomically designed for frequent use and easy to clean for upholding hygiene.
6. Furniture & ergonomics
Ideal for office chair adjustments, modular desk systems, and monitor arms, lever arms allow for smooth and comfortable adjustment without the need for tools.
Download free CADs
We offer Free CADs available for download. If you’re not quite sure which lever arm is right for your application, our experts are always happy to advise you. Whatever your requirements, you can depend on fast despatch.
You might also find it helpful to read our guide, Handle design: T, L and pull handles.
Questions?
Email us at sales@essentracomponents.co.uk or speak to one of our experts for further information on the ideal solution for your application: 0345 528 0474.