Hand Tools in Mechanics

Wrenches

• Types:
  • Open-end wrench: used for bolts and nuts with a flat end
  • Box-end wrench: used for bolts and nuts with a rounded end
  • Adjustable wrench: adjustable jaw to fit different sizes
  • Socket wrench: uses sockets to fit different sizes and shapes
• Characteristics:
  • Measured in inches or millimeters
  • May have a ratcheting mechanism for ease of use

Pliers

• Types:
  • Needle-nose pliers: long, thin nose for reaching small spaces
  • Slip-joint pliers: adjustable jaw for gripping different sizes
  • Locking pliers: can be locked in place for clamping
  • Wire cutters: used for cutting wire
• Characteristics:
  • May have a comfortable grip or ergonomic design
  • Often have a fulcrum for increased leverage

Screwdrivers

• Types:
  • Flathead screwdriver: flat, broad blade for slotted screws
  • Phillips screwdriver: star-shaped blade for Phillips screws
  • Torx screwdriver: star-shaped blade for Torx screws
  • Allen wrench: L-shaped or hexagonal blade for hex-socket screws
• Characteristics:
  • Measured in inches or millimeters
  • May have a handle or ergonomic design for comfort

Hammers

• Types:
  • Claw hammer: curved claw for pulling nails
  • Ball-peen hammer: ball-shaped head for shaping metal
  • Sledgehammer: large, heavy head for demolition
  • Mallet hammer: soft, non-marring head for delicate work
• Characteristics:
  • Measured in ounces or grams
  • May have a comfortable grip or ergonomic design

Measuring Tools

• Types:
  • Tape measure: flexible, retractable tape for measuring lengths
  • Ruler: straight, rigid edge for measuring lengths
  • Calipers: precision instrument for measuring diameters and widths
  • Level: tool for determining level or plumb surfaces
• Characteristics:
  • Measured in inches, millimeters, or other units
  • May have a lock or hold feature for precise measurements

Hand Tools

Wrenches

• Open-end wrench: used for bolts and nuts with a flat end
• Box-end wrench: used for bolts and nuts with a rounded end
• Adjustable wrench: adjustable jaw to fit different sizes
• Socket wrench: uses sockets to fit different sizes and shapes
• Measured in inches or millimeters
• May have a ratcheting mechanism for ease of use

Pliers

• Needle-nose pliers: long, thin nose for reaching small spaces
• Slip-joint pliers: adjustable jaw for gripping different sizes
• Locking pliers: can be locked in place for clamping
• Wire cutters: used for cutting wire
• May have a comfortable grip or ergonomic design
• Often have a fulcrum for increased leverage

Screwdrivers

• Flathead screwdriver: flat, broad blade for slotted screws
• Phillips screwdriver: star-shaped blade for Phillips screws
• Torx screwdriver: star-shaped blade for Torx screws
• Allen wrench: L-shaped or hexagonal blade for hex-socket screws
• Measured in inches or millimeters
• May have a handle or ergonomic design for comfort

Hammers

• Claw hammer: curved claw for pulling nails
• Ball-peen hammer: ball-shaped head for shaping metal
• Sledgehammer: large, heavy head for demolition
• Mallet hammer: soft, non-marring head for delicate work
• Measured in ounces or grams
• May have a comfortable grip or ergonomic design

Measuring Tools

• Tape measure: flexible, retractable tape for measuring lengths
• Ruler: straight, rigid edge for measuring lengths
• Calipers: precision instrument for measuring diameters and widths
• Level: tool for determining level or plumb surfaces
• Measured in inches, millimeters, or other units
• May have a lock or hold feature for precise measurements

Identify and understand the different types of wrenches and pliers, their characteristics, and uses in mechanical work.