No matter what level of skill you possess, having a good collection of wrenches is essential for completing almost any mechanical job. Buying a wrench may sound simpler, however, it can be intimidating if you do not know what you are looking for.
There are many types of wrenches available for different jobs and applications. Let us take a look at the five most commonly used wrenches available.
Combination Wrench
Popularly known as the standard wrench, a combination wrench can be considered as one set of tools that need to be present in your toolbox. Combination wrenches, as the name suggests, come with a six-point closed-end at one end and a socket at the other end, i.e., have a combination of both an open-ended wrench as well as a box-ended wrench.
Combination wrenches are used to unfasten nuts and bolts with the box-end, and then separate them quickly using the open-end.
Geared Wrench
The geared wrench, though it looks similar to the combination wrench, it is different due to the factor that the closed end is able to flex in either direction on a fixed axis. Available in different sized drives, the Gear wrenches work well in tighter spaces and spaces where it is hard to reach.
Available in 1/4-in, 3/8-in, and 1/2-in drives, the gear wrenches can turn 180-degree.
Line Wrench
Another essential tool for your kit, a line wrench is used if you are working with flare-nuts on fuel lines and brake lines. Flare-nuts are made of very soft material, and they are very tight and are used to create compression fittings. Using any other wrench presents the risk of destroying the nut’s surface, and that is a serious concern. A line wrench has just the right amount of cut-out in the end, allowing for a better grip on the surface while working.
Line wrenches come in 3/8-in, 7/16-in, 1/2-in, 9/16-in, 5/8-in, 11/16-in, 3/4-in, and 7/8-in. The line wrench sizes in the metric system are sizes 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, and 17.
Adjustable Wrench
The adjustable wrench is one of the most versatile tools in the average toolbox, all the while being one of the most commonly misused. Although it is a large item, it can be cumbersome at work. Moreover, it is never the right size, leading to its nickname. In the construction and automobile industries, where a wide variety of fastener sizes must be maintained, adjustable wrenches are widely used.
Pipe Wrench
If you need to work on heavy-duty suspension components or need to remove stripped or rusty bolts, a pipe wrench is essential. A large amount of torque can be applied to round metal components to get out of a tight spot. Pipe wrenches are adjustable wrenches used to work with pipes. Pipe wrenches usually work on threaded pipes, made from galvanised steel, black iron or similar metals. Pipe wrenches, also known as monkey wrenches, are used by plumbers, drillers, and other workers who handle threaded piping.
Have you thought about adding a wrench to your toolbox? The wrenches offered by RS Components are available in several different materials, finishes, shapes, sizes, handle lengths, and jaw sizes. Visit our website to learn more about our adjustable wrenches and to purchase the one that best fits your needs.