Hand Tools Overview

Hand Tools

Definition
- Tools that are powered by human effort rather than electricity or batteries.
Types of Hand Tools
- Cutting Tools
  - Knives: used for slicing and cutting materials.
  - Scissors: designed for cutting fabric or paper.
  - Saws: various types (e.g., hacksaw, coping saw) for cutting wood or metal.
- Fastening Tools
  - Screwdrivers: used for turning screws with various head types (e.g., flathead, Philips).
  - Pliers: used for gripping, twisting, and cutting wire or small objects.
  - Hammers: used for driving nails or breaking apart materials.
- Measuring Tools
  - Tape Measure: flexible measuring tool for length.
  - Ruler: straight measuring tool, typically for shorter lengths.
  - Level: assesses horizontal or vertical alignment.
- Striking Tools
  - Mallet: rubber or wooden, used for striking without damaging surfaces.
  - Chisels: for cutting or shaping wood, stone, or metal.
- Surface Preparation Tools
  - Sandpaper: abrasive paper used for smoothing surfaces.
  - Files: tools with a rough surface for shaping or smoothing materials.
Usage and Safety
- Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Inspect tools before use for damage or wear.
- Use tools for their intended purpose to avoid injury.
- Maintain tools by keeping them clean and stored properly.
Maintenance
- Regularly sharpen cutting edges.
- Oil moving parts to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation.
- Store tools in a dry place to prevent corrosion.
Specialized Hand Tools
- Pipe Wrench: designed for gripping and turning pipes.
- Allen Wrench: used to drive hexagonal socket screws.
- Clamps: used to hold workpieces securely in place during assembly or cutting.
Advantages of Hand Tools
- Portability: easily transported for various jobs.
- Precision: allows for fine detail work.
- Reliability: less likely to malfunction compared to powered tools.

Hand Tools Overview

Hand tools are operated solely by human force, eliminating the need for electricity or batteries.

Types of Hand Tools

Cutting Tools
- Knives: Versatile for slicing various materials.
- Scissors: Specifically designed for cutting fabric and paper.
- Saws: Includes hacksaw and coping saw, ideal for cutting wood and metal.
Fastening Tools
- Screwdrivers: Essential for turning screws, available in flathead and Philips head variations.
- Pliers: Useful for gripping, twisting, and cutting wires or small objects.
- Hammers: Primarily used for driving nails or breaking materials.
Measuring Tools
- Tape Measure: Flexible tool for measuring longer distances.
- Ruler: A straight edge measuring tool for shorter lengths.
- Level: Determines horizontal and vertical alignment for accurate installations.
Striking Tools
- Mallet: Rubber or wooden tool for striking without causing damage.
- Chisels: Employed for cutting or shaping wood, stone, or metal.
Surface Preparation Tools
- Sandpaper: Abrasive material for smoothing surfaces.
- Files: Tools with a rough texture for shaping and refining materials.

Usage and Safety Precautions

Employ appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) during use.
Inspect tools for any signs of damage or wear prior to usage.
Use each tool strictly for its designed purpose to prevent injuries.
Ensure tools are maintained through cleaning and proper storage.

Maintenance Practices

Regular sharpening of cutting edges is necessary to ensure efficiency.
Application of oil to moving parts prevents rust and enhances function.
Store tools in dry environments to minimize corrosion risk.

Specialized Hand Tools

Pipe Wrench: Specifically designed for gripping and turning pipes.
Allen Wrench: Utilized for driving hexagonal socket screws.
Clamps: Securely hold workpieces during assembly or cutting processes.

Advantages of Hand Tools

Portability: Can be easily transported for on-site jobs.
Precision: Ideal for detailed work requiring accuracy.
Reliability: Generally less prone to malfunction than power tools, ensuring consistent performance.