Sizes and types of wrenches. Wrench. Types and work. Application and how to choose. Features Size range of wrenches

20.06.2020 Water heaters

Even a person who is far from technology often has to unscrew and tighten screws, bolts, nuts (hardware - this is how these metal products are often called in abbreviation) with a tool designed for this - wrenches. Each key is marked with the size of its working part, simply the throat. But the corresponding value - the wrench size - denoted in technical reference books by the letter S (the distance between opposite parallel edges on a nut, bolt or screw head), is not indicated on any fastener. As a rule, this data is not included in the operating and repair instructions attached to any equipment, even in the designations and drawings, although they contain plenty of other information about fasteners: the thread size and its pitch are indicated, sometimes the length and even type of heat treatment, often also tightening torque. But basically these data are constructive, and they are needed for the manufacture of parts. During adjustment, repair or assembly work, the above thread parameters, except for the last, are unclaimed. For a mechanic, it is much more important to know what size of throat a wrench is needed for the head of a particular screw or bolt and nut (or, as the professionals say, “a wrench for how much”).

When the nut or bolt head is in plain sight and in an easily accessible place, it is not difficult to determine “how much” a key is needed - an experienced technician will recognize this at a glance, and an inexperienced one can “calculate” using a caliper or by selecting keys: from two - This can usually be done three times.

If the fastener is located in a hard-to-reach place, and even “behind the eyes” (which happens very often), then you have to determine the size of the turnkey hardware head by touch, when even a professional can easily make a mistake. Trouble will not happen if the master tries to work with a smaller key - it simply will not fit on the head. If the key turns out to be large, then “cutting off” the ribs of the head with it, as they say, is a piece of cake. In addition to the fact that the part will be irreparably damaged, then unscrewing the fasteners even with a special tool will be a considerable problem.

To determine the “turnkey” size “by sight”, it makes sense to refer to the information about the thread of the fastener specified in the instructions. Indeed, according to GOST, each thread corresponds to two close sizes of the head of a turnkey fastener: the main one and the reduced one, and the difference in their values is small. On average, the turnkey size is approximately 1.5 times larger than the outer diameter of the thread (see Table 1) and you can already focus on it.

Table 1. Correspondence between the dimensions of a turnkey fastener and its nominal diameter of a metric thread
Nominal diameter of metric thread		4	5	6	8	10	12	16	20	22	24	30	36	42	48
Key size	S basic	7	8	10	13	17	19	24	30	32	36	46	55	65	75
Key size	S smart	-	-	-	-	12	14	17	22	27	32	41	50	60	70

And although a reduced wrench size is assigned by designers less often than the main one, you should try to unscrew the fasteners “behind your eyes” for the above reasons, still using a smaller wrench: if it doesn’t fit, then you can safely work with a wrench corresponding to the main size - it won’t break off (of course, provided that the fasteners are not rusty). The wrenches are usually also made according to the same principle: at one end the gap (open for open-end wrenches, closed for socket and ring wrenches) corresponds to the main size of the head of the fastener, and at the other - a reduced one. The only ones that fall out of this series are combination ones, which have the same size opening at both ends, only one is open and the other is closed (circular), and adjustable wrenches.

Sizes and types of wrenches

When working with fasteners, the tool is of utmost importance for their safety, so you should use only serviceable wrenches: their jaws should not be widened and their jaws should not be wrinkled. Wrenches with such defects must be removed from the working kit. In addition, seemingly similar tools differ significantly in the quality of the metal and the profile of the jaws. The last condition directly affects the distribution of forces on the faces and edges of hardware.

Fasteners are designed for a specific tightening torque when assembling the product. However, often the effort when disassembling, especially “stuck” or rusted threaded connections, exceeds it many times over. In these cases, it is better to use appropriate socket or ring (professionals call them ring) wrenches rather than open-end wrenches. Moreover, you cannot use an adjustable wrench, as well as when unscrewing small (less than S10) nuts, bolts and screws.

If the edges of the fastener are severely damaged by corrosion or for some reason are “rolled”, in order to still unscrew it, you need to grind off the edges of the key by a “number” less. Then, after saturating the threaded connection with a special liquid (or, in extreme cases, kerosene) to soften the rust and wait a while, try to unscrew the part again. Another way (but not the last) to unscrew a bolt or screw with a damaged head is to make a slot between the opposite edges using a strong screwdriver and try to unscrew the fastener with this tool. And finally, use a pipe wrench for this. By the way, the range of the latter now includes those that do not damage the edges and edges of fasteners even at high unscrewing torques. For small nuts, you can use special pliers.

When you have to regularly adjust and repair the same equipment (for example, a personal car), it will be useful to draw up a table of turnkey sizes of fasteners of the main adjustable units, devoting special time to this or as you turn to adjusting a particular mechanism or unit.

Table 2 shows the wrench dimensions of the main and adjusting threaded connections for the VAZ-2105 car.

Table 2. Some fasteners and their turnkey sizes in VAZ cars
Name of units and fasteners	Fastener thread	Turnkey size
Engine, transmission
Flywheel housing mounting screw	M6	10
Ignition distributor mounting nut	M8	13
Valve cover nuts	M6	10
Oil pan fastening screw	M6	10
Muffler clamp bolt and nut	M8	13
Transmission sump mounting screw	M6	10
Fan belt tension nut for pump, generator	M10	17
Cylinder head cover nuts	M6	10
Battery terminal nut	M6	10
Battery mounting bracket nut	M8	13
Steering, brake, suspension, wheels
Tie rod pin castle nut	M10	17
Tie Rod Clutch Bolt	M8	12
Steering rod coupling bolt nut	M8	13
Handbrake adjustment nut and locknut	M8	13
Lower ball joint stud nut	M8	13

Since we are talking about cars and car wrenches, then it is worth noting that the so-called “balloon” “19” and “spark plug” “21” wrenches are of special importance in the tool kit of “Zhiguli” (and other cars).

The first one is made quite uniquely and stands out from the entire set of wrenches. Even those who have little knowledge of technology will recognize it: it is cap-shaped, with a curved handle-lever, the end of which is made in the shape of a screwdriver blade. Once upon a time, this key was used to remove chrome wheel covers, which are no longer installed on modern cars. It would be advisable to sharpen it a little and thus have a strong screwdriver in the kit. In addition to loosening and tightening wheel bolts, this wrench can also be used when working with other related fasteners. If necessary, the wheel bolts can be unscrewed with a regular (socket or even open-end) wrench “19”.

The second, a “spark plug” wrench, is similar in appearance to similar tubular socket wrenches with the same diametrical hole for the wrench. It even retains the ratio of 1.5 times the diameter of the thread being turned away (14 mm) to the distance between the opposite edges of the key (21 mm). If we look again at Table 2, it will become clear that the wrench is non-standard, and there is no special wrench or other wrench of the same size in the kit. The thread on the candle, although standard (14x1.25), is not recommended.

And about one more wrench - a regular open-end “10”. It is better to always keep this key, like a fire extinguisher, “at hand” - since it is used to loosen the nuts of the battery terminals. Indeed, if necessary, for example, in case of a short circuit in an electrical circuit or (which has now also become relevant) to turn off an alarm that went off for no reason (if it does not “listen” to the key fob), this must be done very quickly.

It should be noted that the automotive tool kit does not contain wrenches for all sizes of fasteners. Therefore, when you need to crawl under a car (on a hole or overpass), it’s a good idea to check that you have all the necessary tools with you, otherwise you’ll have to crawl out from under it with nothing. The same must be done if you intend to disassemble some component or assembly for repair or maintenance. In addition, very often some universal and even special devices are required to disassemble assemblies without damage. Without all this, disassembly may be impossible or even in vain.

One notable point: fasteners with a turnkey size of 13 appeared in our country along with the Zhiguli car, the prototype of which, as you know, was the Italian FIAT-124. With their appearance, hardware with wrench sizes “12” and “14” lost their position.

Open-end wrenches

There are quite a few types of wrenches, since they are needed for different nuts and bolts and are used in different situations. In some places it is more convenient to use one type, in others another, it all depends on the size of the nut, how it is located, and how to approach it. Let's consider all the main types of keys, their sizes, shapes, advantages relative to each other. There are many manufacturers in this market, therefore prices vary greatly. We can say that there are no high-quality and cheap keys. A good thing is not cheap, and this also applies to them.

Double-sided open-end wrenches(in 1 photo). This is probably the most commonly used type. It is called so because its ends resemble horns. Sold both in sets and individually.
These keys have two different sizes on the ends. For example, 8*10, 10*12, 13*15 and so on. The size range is quite wide, ranging from 4mm to 55mm.

Single-sided open-end wrenches.

They are used mainly in production; it is unlikely to be useful in everyday life. Sizes start from 36mm, maximum 95mm. You can work with force by putting a metal pipe on one side of the wrench, which greatly increases the tightening force.

Double-sided spanners.

They have two different sizes at the ends, for example, 17*19, 19mm*22mm and so on. Sizes from 6mm to 55mm. Unlike open-end ones, the ends are in the form of a ring, which allows you to twist the nut without breaking off, without constantly moving the wrench, and it will not break off.

Single-sided spanner.

It has a ring on one side only; for greater tightening force it can be used in conjunction with a pipe. Sizes from 30mm to 50mm.

Impact wrench.

Has one ring. Unlike simple ones, drums are noticeably thicker. There is a special place for hitting with a sledgehammer or hammer; they are used mainly for powerful tightening. Available in sizes from 27mm to 105mm.

These have a ring on one side and the shape of a regular open-end wrench on the other. The dimensions are the same on both sides. For example, 10*10, 12*12, etc. Combines the advantages of an open-end and ring wrench.
Minimum size 5mm, maximum 32mm.

Socket wrenches(tubular).

They are good in cases where the nut is located deep in the part, and it is simply impossible to get through with other keys.
As a rule, they have two sizes on different sides. They are simply in the form of a tube, this one can be twisted with a simple screwdriver, there is a special hole for this, there are L-shaped ones, the shape resembles the Latin letter L, it can be twisted without the help of foreign objects, just by hand, since the shape allows it.
This also includes spark plug wrenches, which are also made in the form of tubes, especially for spark plugs.

Adjustable wrenches.

Its main advantage is that it adapts to many sizes and has sliding jaws. There are several types, small and large, up to 19mm, up to 30mm, up to 35mm, up to 46mm. Often the nut is of a non-standard size, or the required wrench is not at hand, then an adjustable wrench will completely solve the problem.

They are universal, the jaws are expandable, so they cover several diameters at once. Dimensions - from the smallest number zero, capable of clamping a maximum diameter of 28mm, to the largest number 5, this one will grip a 120mm pipe.
According to foreign nomenclature, sizes are marked in inches. For example, a key of 1 inch, 1.5, 2, 3 inches.
The shape of the sponges is L-shaped (straight) and S-shaped (rounded jaws). For gripping a round workpiece, the S-shaped lips are better suited, since there are three points of contact; if the workpiece is flat, the L-shaped lips are better suited.

Star keys(Torx).

They come in the form

In order to tighten or unscrew a bolt, nut, tap head, coupling, etc., an open-end wrench is used. Every master who performs everyday work around the house or deals with equipment has come across this tool at least once in his life.

Any tool has its own characteristics and parameters. There are also generally accepted standard sizes of open-end wrenches. To determine the size, it is necessary to pay attention to the span of the part that its motionless jaws have. This is the so-called throat of the instrument. The handle of any open-end wrench has a digital marking. This is the size in millimeters that determines the width between the jaws.

Standard sizes can range from minimum (2.5x3.2 mm) to maximum (70x80 mm). This acceptable standards GOST, which must not be violated under any circumstances. GOST also specifies other characteristics of open-end wrenches, for example:

A special calculation of the maximum deviations of the pharynx size is carried out;
Any manufactured open-end wrench must have specified strength and hardness;
The trademark marking is established;
The decorative and protective coating of the key, etc. is taken into account.

Types of keys

Now let's look at what varieties there are. The most commonly used wrenches have two jaws. Another name for it is a double open-end wrench (GOST 2839). If you need to unscrew a fastener with a mag of 18 or 20 mm between opposite edges, then you need to choose a tool with a handle on which the designations 18 and 20 are located.

It happens that in force majeure circumstances a tool of the required size is not always at hand. In this case fits one size larger wrench. When using a tool that is not suitable for its intended purpose, you need to use a knife or screwdriver, install them in an empty space.

Types of horn instruments:

composite (GOST 16.983). Their design contains an end structure nozzle, a hollow socket and a handle, short or long;
adjustable (GOST 7275.75). These are open-end wrenches where the size can vary;
narrow profile keys. These are specific keys for a certain type of activity;
There are star, Bristol and hex keys (GOST 11737.93) that are used to work with bicycle and computer equipment, with screwing in fasteners in hard-to-reach places that border almost on jewelry work.

How to choose an open-end wrench?

How to choose the right tool so that it meets all GOST standards? The variety of models shows that there are different types of products for every need. You need to consider the purpose of its use and the complexity of the task you set for it. The material used for the production of modern nut products is special tool steel, it consists of an alloy of vanadium and chromium.

There is also one unique tool that will help solve all problems at once, and eliminate the need to think about which open-end wrench to choose. There are universal models that contain all products at the same time. This tool accommodates nuts of various sizes with any types of heads. It does not slip on a smooth surface due to its powerful teeth, which is its main advantage.

There are also electric keys, the name speaks for itself. This tool can be powered by battery or batteries. Therefore, each home craftsman himself determines which products are best suited for him.

The price category is quite varied. Most often, the price depends on the versatility of the technical characteristics and the manufacturer. The cheapest is a single-sided horn instrument, where the open mouth has 3.1–85 millimeters.

At the time of purchase also don't forget about the long handle, which can limit the amplitude of movement of the key when turning. If one of the jaws is shortened, then, naturally, the radius of the wrench increases. In this case, you will be able to place the head on the side of the nut. If the handle is artificially enlarged, the applied force increases, and the jaw jaws will separate or even break. A hammer will be able to help set them in place when spreading, but the material will not be as strong as before. When you have a product made of 40xFA or 40x steel, then there is a method of hardening the sponge.

There is another option on how to repair a broken or worn out pharynx. By welding a metal layer, you can adjust the volume of the pharynx using an abrasive tool. When the open gap is more than 25 mm, then this option for restoring the product will be the most effective.

The service life of carob products can range from a year to five. When talking about durability, they always mean a ring wrench (GOST 2906). It cannot be crushed, but it can wear out. There are restrictions on the use of this type of key. It can only be used if it is put on the nuts, but it cannot be used to unscrew, for example, union bolts of flexible hoses. The advantage is the hexagonal or twelve-sided jaw, which makes it possible to carry out work more intensively.

How to make an open-end wrench with your own hands?

For those who decide to make this instrument themselves, there are some small recommendations. You need to start manufacturing using a sample of a ready-made similar product. Complete a drawing of the required product, taking into account which you will make your key.

First, we make a blank from a steel sheet with a size several millimeters larger than the external size of the sides of the finished product. There are difficulties with thick instruments. You shouldn't cut it out with a hacksaw. And choosing a gas torch as a cutting tool is contraindicated. It is advisable to use forging in the process. This can be done by flattening a metal rod.

Then, when the workpiece is ready, we begin to make markings. If the workpiece does not have very smooth edges, then it is advisable to file them down to remove scale. After paint needs to be applied onto the treated surface. You can use quick-drying varnish or paint. Applying the sample is done after the paint has completely dried. It is advisable to use some kind of press to prevent the sample from slipping when delineating.

The scriber is a metal sharpened wire. Then the final marks must be placed on the separation of the workpiece and the sample, retreating a few millimeters from those already made, and then marking them. First, place the core at the risk with an inclination, and level it when striking with a hammer. The step between the pits in the pharynx should be 4–5 mm.

Then we drill out the throat. You can use an electric drill with drills with a diameter of 5–6 mm. The drill should not get too hot. You can cool it in water. Then, when you make the second shed, you need to remove the excess.

Well, at the end you need to harden the part. At home, this can be done using gas. If you use a special stove or blacksmith's forge– it will be perfect. To remove the product, use pliers by lowering the key into the water. It is necessary to remove and immerse until the sponges completely darken. This is the technology for making an open-end wrench.

There are several types of wrenches. They are used to secure connections consisting of a nut or bolt. They are made from a chromium-vanadium alloy. To prevent the key from rusting, chrome plating is used. The invention of the first wrench belongs to Solimon Merrick, who patented it in 1835. There are different types of wrenches. An ordinary person needs them in everyday life for a variety of purposes.

Keys are an integral part of the tool box

Having looked at the types of wrenches in the photo, you can understand that in addition to those models that are often found in our homes, there are a huge number of their varieties. They differ from each other not only in form, but also in the purpose of use.

For example, several wrenches, such as a fire hydrant wrench, are used for only one purpose. While others, say a combination or adjustable key, can be used for different purposes. The types of wrenches and their variety are designed to ensure comfort in their use not only by professionals, but also by ordinary citizens. The right tool will help you quickly complete the task.

Types of wrenches, sizes, descriptions, photos

Size is usually indicated by parameters such as the distance between the jaws. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, it was customary to determine the nominal size of a key in accordance with the parameters of the thread that it was supposed to use. Current practice uses a notation based on the distance between planes.

The size of a wrench is determined by the following parameters: jaw (distance between jaws), thread size (for the nut), handle length. The first parameter has the following range - from 3.2 mm to 155 mm; the second - from M1.6 to M110; the third - from 150 mm to 500 mm.

Single- and double-sided open-end wrenches

This type of key has open ends. These are U-shaped holes. They are often different sizes. These wrenches are useful when working on nuts and bolts that are difficult to access. They provide greater freedom in unscrewing them.

Double-sided spanners

This wrapped wrench has a closed loop at both ends. It is often designed for hexagonal shaped nuts or bolts. However, in certain cases it can be designed in a square shape. The loops at both ends are different sizes. This type of wrench is used in cases where open models cannot complete the task.

Combination keys

A combination wrench, as the name suggests, is a combination of an open-end wrench and a socket model. It has a closed loop at one end and an open loop at the other. It can be used to loosen nuts and bolts and then quickly remove them using the open end. Combination wrenches are usually used to perform the combination described and hence both ends are the same size.

Adjustable or adjustable wrenches

This is a type of open-type wrench. They can only be used from one end. The hole size is not fixed. It can vary depending on the size of the nut or bolt. However, these types of wrenches are nearly impossible to use in hard-to-reach areas.

This is the most common type of adjustable wrench used today. An adjustable end wrench differs from a regular wrench in that the gripping surfaces of the jaws are offset, as a rule, by 15 degrees relative to the tool handle. The modern adjustable was invented by Johan Petter Johansson.

Let's now learn how to use the adjustable key model.

Identify the nut or bolt you want to tighten.
Open the rotary key by turning the screw. Check if you have opened it enough for the nut to fit well: if not, it needs to be opened more. Make sure it is open a little more than the size of the nut.
Slide the open part of the head onto the nut and hold it in place. Turn the mechanism screw so that it clamps the nut tightly.
Turn the wrench clockwise to tighten the fastener or counterclockwise to loosen it. Continue turning until the nut is tight or loose enough to remove.
Remove the wrench by loosening the mechanism screw.

End models

In the case of a socket wrench, it fits completely over the nut or bolt. When this type of tool is used, it does not need to be completely removed from the head of the nut or bolt after turning is complete. The handle can be removed and reinserted while the socket remains on top of the nut or bolt.

Impact wrench

There are a wide variety of types and sizes of wrenches. An "impact" wrench is a specialized thick, short, chunky tool with a block-end handle specifically designed for use with a hammer, allowing it to be given greater force. Typically used with large fasteners, especially nuts and pins that have index marks.

Impact wrenches can withstand impact and high force, which is designed to release large or stuck nuts and bolts. They are also useful if space does not allow the use of a large wrench.

Hex wrench

This key has a hexagonal end. These tools are used to loosen bolts with hexagonal sockets on the ends. The way they work is similar to the way a screwdriver works. To better understand the features of each model, you should study the types of wrenches; the photos require special attention. Illustrative material makes it easier to understand the features of each model.

Hex wrenches come in two general shapes: L-handle and T-handle. L-shaped wrenches are made from hexagonal wire, while T-handles are the same hexagonal wire with a metal or plastic handle attached to the end. Types of wrenches and their names are presented in detail in our article. Many of their names come from the external shape of the instrument.

These hex keys have a head on the short arm and a hex ball head on the long arm. It offers a larger contact surface on the screw head. This reduces the likelihood of wear and rounding of corners in the screws. The ball on the long arm is designed so that the key can be easily inserted into the head, which allows you to turn it at the desired angle, this is indispensable in hard-to-reach places.

The round key shafts fit comfortably in the hand and help make operation as easy as possible.

Since these quality tools use stainless steel, rust will not be an issue. If you notice it on the surface of the instrument, there can only be one reason. This occurs as a result of their active use to turn screws or bolts made of ordinary steel. Pressure inevitably leaves traces or particles of another type of metal on the stainless beak, and then corrosion occurs under the influence of oxygen.

Balloon keys

This is the name for a type of socket wrench used to loosen and tighten nuts on automobile wheels. In the United Kingdom and Australia it is commonly known as a wheel brace.

Wrenches can be L-shaped or X-shaped. The most common form is an L-shaped metal rod with a socket wrench on the curved end and an angled tip on the other end. The gripping bit is mainly designed to remove wheel caps, which can fix the wheel end nuts.

Gedore has gained enormous popularity in the tool market. It produces high-quality products that are actively used by motorists from all over the world. The appearance of the first Gedore wrenches appealed to car enthusiasts.

Another common type, sometimes called a key spider, is shaped like a cross with spaced sockets at each of the four ends.

Ideally, the nuts (or bolts) should be tightened with a torque tool. Wrenches are much cheaper. Installing a wheel with their help requires the use of greater force. Excessive force can make the nuts very difficult to remove. Additionally, uneven application of force between the various nuts and the tool can cause the brake rotor to warp if the vehicle is equipped with disc brakes.

For this reason, wheel wrenches should only be properly used to remove lug nuts and not to tighten them. In practice, this rule is often ignored for convenience, even by professional mechanics.

For an auto mechanic or just a person whose profession involves using a huge number of tools, you can purchase cutlery in the form of wrenches. This fun gift is sure to make an impression.

Open-end wrenches

Single-sided open-end wrenches.

Double-sided spanners.

Single-sided spanner.

It has a ring on one side only; for greater tightening force it can be used in conjunction with a pipe. Sizes from 30mm to 50mm.

Impact wrench.

Socket wrenches(tubular).

Adjustable wrenches.

Star keys(Torx).

They come in the form of to make tightening faster, and there are also simple ones for manual use. Typically, these are used to repair household appliances, cars, and cell phones.
Available in sizes T5 to T50. The smallest ones (T5, T6) are sold only in sets for cell phones.

Hex keys.

Suitable for repairing equipment, assembling furniture (4mm key for confirmation - furniture screw). They come in sets and individually. Sizes from 1.5mm to 24mm.

Non-sparking keys.

Very specific. For use only in explosive industries. They do not produce a spark when hitting metal or falling; if the work involves gas, then these are the ones used. They are easy to recognize by their color. It can be yellow, or the color of copper is reddish.

Standard sizes of open-end wrenches

A special calculation of the maximum deviations of the pharynx size is carried out;
Any manufactured open-end wrench must have specified strength and hardness;
The trademark marking is established;
The decorative and protective coating of the key, etc. is taken into account.

Types of keys

Types of horn instruments:

composite (GOST 16.983). Their design contains an end structure nozzle, a hollow socket and a handle, short or long;
adjustable (GOST 7275.75). These are open-end wrenches where the size can vary;
narrow profile keys. These are specific keys for a certain type of activity;
There are star, Bristol and hex keys (GOST 11737.93) that are used to work with bicycle and computer equipment, with screwing in fasteners in hard-to-reach places that border almost on jewelry work.

How to choose an open-end wrench?

There are also electric keys, the name speaks for itself. This tool can be powered by battery or batteries. Therefore, each home craftsman himself determines which products are best suited for him.

The price category is quite varied. Most often, the price depends on the versatility of the technical characteristics and the manufacturer. The cheapest is a single-sided horn instrument, where the open mouth has 3.1–85 millimeters.

How to make an open-end wrench with your own hands?

Main types of wrenches:

— carob (with an open mouth);
— cap (ring);
— gas;
— end;
- adjustable;
— combined;
- balloon;
— spark plug (for spark plugs);
- hexagonal.

Wrench sizes:

— pharynx (distance between jaws): from 3.2 (mm), to 155 (mm);
— thread size (for nut): from M1.6 to M110;
— handle length: from 150 (mm), to 500 (mm).

Common parameters:

1. Double-sided open-end wrenches have two jaws, and the sizes of the jaws are side by side in the size range, for example, an 8/10 wrench.
2. Ring (spanner) wrenches can have 4, 6 or 12 internal edges.
3. The adjustable wrenches are divided into 6 main numbers.
4. Balloon wrenches are completely similar in parameters to socket wrenches, the only difference is in the shape of the handle.
5. The second name for a gas wrench is a pipe wrench;
6. An open-end wrench on one side and a socket on the other is called a combination wrench.

The size range is presented in the table below.
Dimensions of all types of keys: follow the links in the subsections.

Types of screws

convertible

adjustable

tubular

Compound

Women are not allowed to know what a key is.

Men from such a tip are just a smile: they say, since childhood we already knew that yes, how. But in thinking more deeply about this issue, many will pull their hand to the back of the head because the types of locks are different. This category of tools actually contains many subcategories, and not all of them are familiar with their properties.

Firstly, a wrench is a tool for a wide range of applications, including plumbing, which is used to tighten or unscrew screws, couplings or walnuts in various joints.

To perform its function, it has a working head, the type and size of which depends on the area of action, as well as a handle, which also includes the function of a handle.

Types of screws can be divided into two subclasses: collected and single (integer).

The former have several parts that facilitate access to the spiral parts, increase its impact (for example, an additional shoulder) or reduce the workload of the worker. The second subtype is the entire subject.

Types of screws

Another classification divides all keys into adjustable keys and fixed head size. The latter include a description of the cap, end, colors and other instruments, the working part of which is monolithic and has dimensions determined by the manufacturer.

They are usually marked in millimeters or inches.

The adjustable key (see photo) allows you to adjust the head size.

Now in more detail about what types of locks are most often found.

It has a U-shaped head and usually covers the screw on three sides.

The device's "horns" (which is where the name comes from, by the way) are angled toward the handle, allowing you to control it better in a small space. The disadvantage of such a tool is the small area of interaction with the matrix or bolt.

All the power is not entirely on the screwdriver, but only on the faces that touch the gun.

Desktop key size. How to choose keys: types and sizes

Because of this, their surface can be quickly removed and the thread breaks, especially if a tool of the wrong size is used.

Locks are often made in combination, that is, different sized heads on both sides of the handle.

This saves space in the toolbar.

Folding key

It has a solid head with an internal vertical thread and during operation “rests” on a nut or screw. This format allows the pressure to be applied evenly to all aspects of the object without removing its corners. However, this type of wrench cannot work anywhere but only where there is direct access to the entire screw.

In other cases, a combination instrument is used, which has one flower and the head of a second cap.

Socket wrench

Combination version.

It has a curved handle, usually in the shape of the letter "G", which allows us to first reach into difficult places and secondly have stronger leverage. The most famous representative can be called a car that is used to work with bicycles.

Another key type is tubular, connection.

It is usually a piece of tubing with a curved shape at one end. Typically this is a hexagon. The other end has a hole for inserting a handle. This device works in very narrow spaces where it is impossible to swing a little. The most common example of such an instrument is a candle.

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Adjustable key

As mentioned above, its characteristic is the ability to change the width of the work area.

And this is a truly diverse rosemary tool. It has a fairly heavy head, the horn of which is fixed, and the other can change position thanks to the movable cart with which it is connected. The flexible photo key is commonly used in everyday life as it replaces a small set of regular colors or combinations, but due to the large and relative complexity of the device, it is not always suitable.

Such a tool cannot support work as closely as a conventional carob stone, and furthermore, the mechanism of movement of the horns is eventually worn out and the locking force is further reduced.

Pipe key

The same applies to the adjustable subtype, but it has a lever mechanism to securely secure objects.

It is commonly used to catch and secure pipes, such as in plumbing.

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Complex nested keys

These are "locksmith tools" that have multiple parts to advance the job and improve access to various heavy fixtures or tight spots.

Some, such as the Tubular Wrench, may only have one lockable handle. Others consist of a movable handle with a “crack,” a specific sized head, and a series of nozzles that can cover a variety of joint configurations and sizes. Such a composite device already represents a complete set of tools.

All the above-mentioned staples are the type of woman, that is, the ones that cover the affection with your body.

However, the tools are covered: they work with special connections, they are inserted into their grooves (splines) and therefore have similarities with other mechanics - screwdrivers.

This is, for example, hexagon.

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Wrenches - purpose and types

Home › Articles › Tools and equipment › Wrenches - purpose and types

Wrenches - existing types and their purpose, this is what will be discussed in this article.

Wrench This is a tool that is necessary in modern life, because quite often we come across fastening elements such as screws, bolts, studs, nuts, etc.

It just so happens that you can’t do the job without the right tool. A set of wrenches is a useful thing when assembling furniture, repairing a bicycle, plumbing or a car.

Wrench

In order to use the available tools without problems and competently, you need to know the purpose of each of them.

Learn more about different types of wrenches

adjustable wrench

An important characteristic of an adjustable wrench is the ability to grip various types of fasteners, even non-standard ones.

However, there is a drawback here, namely the low grip reliability. This is due to the occurrence of backlash when adjusting this type of wrench. Because wrench does not allow you to firmly grip the fastener and during operation can unexpectedly break off and damage the edges. This especially applies to the hexagons of rusted nuts, since they require considerable effort when unscrewing.

In order to avoid damaging the edges of the fastening element, it is necessary to use the adjustable wrench with great care, preferably without unnecessary effort.

In addition, in this situation, the best option would be to use other existing types of wrenches that have the desired shape and size specifically for this fastener. By using a precise tool, you can adjust the force when unscrewing the fasteners and not worry about damaging the threads of the part and causing injury, which is quite possible when working with an adjustable wrench.

open-end wrench

Rozhkovy wrench It is a handle with two heads on both sides.

The size of the heads differs by about a couple of millimeters. The working part of the open-end wrench firmly grips the parallel edges of the nut or bolt head. In addition, using an open-end wrench, the fasteners can be grabbed from the side. Today, a combination wrench, which is a type of open-end wrench, is considered quite common. In this case, on one side of the handle of the combination wrench there is an open-end wrench, and on the other side of a similar size ring spanner.

Spanners

Thanks to the existing working surface, such keys can tightly and simultaneously grip each face of the hexagon.

During the process of loosening or tightening fasteners, the latter are practically not at risk of damage, even if great forces were applied.

Wrench Socket wrenches can be of two types, each of them has a different handle shape - curved and straight, and as for their sizes, they are similar to the sizes of an open-end wrench.

The scope of use of such keys is limited; they are usually used when there is access to fasteners from above.

Socket wrenches

They are also a type of wrench.

Thanks to the existing replaceable heads, this type of key is becoming increasingly popular today. Like a box wrench, a socket wrench has the ability to firmly and tightly grip all six edges of a nut or bolt at the same time. As a rule, socket wrenches are purchased complete with interchangeable heads, handle extensions, universal joints and other additional accessories.

Buying any wrench or a complete set of such tools, first of all you need to pay attention to the material from which they were made.

The best choice would be a tool made of chrome vanadium steel.

The size of the mouth (holes) of the keys, the end of the keys for products with a cut-out key and the product key sizes are increased, normal and rough.

DIMENSIONS OF READY (HOLES) KEY AND KEY
(GOST 6424-73)

Nominal sizes S, S1, S2, S3	Boundary deviations
key size	key dimensions
which includes S	covered S1	coated S2	which covers S3
keys	products
normal accuracy	serious precision	increased accuracy	normal accuracy	serious precision
2,5 ; 3,0	—	—	-0040	—	—	—	+12:09 +12:03
3,2	+12:08 +0.02	—	-0048	-0,16	+12:12 +0:04
4,0; 4.5; 5,5	+12:12 +0.02
6.0 *	+0,15 +12:03
7,0	-0058	-0,20	+0,15 +12:05
8,0; (9,0)	+0,18 +12:03	-0,36
10,0	+0,19 +0:04	+0,24 +0:04
(11.0)	-0120	-0,24	-0,43	+0,18 +0:06
12,0; 13,0	+0,24 +0:04	+0:30 +0:04
14,0; (15,0); 16	+0,27 +12:05	+0,35 +12:05
17; 18	+0:30 +12:05	+0,40 +12:05	+0,18 +0:06
19; 21; 22; 24	+0,36 +0:06	+0,46 +0:06	-0140	-0,28	-0,52	+0,21 +12:07
27; 30	+0,48 +12:08	+0,58 +12:08	-0,84
32	-12:17	-0,34	-1:00	-1:00	0,25 +12:05
34; 36; 41; 46; 50	+0,60 +12:10	+0,70 +12:10
55; 60; 65; 70	+0,72 +12:12	+0,92 +12:12	-0,20	-0,40	-1:20	-1:20	+0:30 +12:10
75; 80	+0,85 +0,15	+1:15 +0,15
85; 90; 95; 100	—	-0,87	-1:40	-1:40	—
105; 110; 115; 120	+1:00 +0,20	+1:40 +0,20
130	+1:25 +0,25
135	+1:00 +0,20	-1:00	-1,60	-1,60
145; 150	+1:25 +0,25
155; 165; 170; 175; 180	—
185; 200; 210	-1:15	-1,90	-1,90
225	+1:50 +0:30

* Approved for use only on items with a recessed key and on keys at this depth.

How to choose keys: types and sizes

Notes:
1. Dimensions in brackets may be used for finished products.
2. Sizes 17, 19, 22 and 32 mm are not preferred.

LOCATION OF THE RIGHT KEY
(GOST 13682-80)

SAP
key
S, mm

E = K

SAP
key
S, mm

E = K

3,2
4
5
5,5
7
8th place
10
12th place
13
14
17
19
22
24
27

8th place
9
11
12th place
14
17
20
24
26
28
34
36
42
48
52

4
4
4
5
6
7
8th place
10
10
11
13
14
15
16
19

5
5
7
7
8th place
9
11
13
14
15
17
19
24
25
28

14
15
18
20
26
30
36
45
45
48
52
60
72
78
85

10
12th place
14
16
20
24
28
34
34
36
38
45
55
60
65

9
9
10
10
13
15
18
22
23
24
26
30
36
38
42

11
12th place
14
14
16
20
22
26
26
26
30
32
36
40
45

—
—
—
—
—
16
18
20
—
22
26
30
32
36
40

30
32
36
41
46
50
55
60
65
70
75
80
85
90
95

58
62
68
80
90
95
105
110
120
130
140
150
160
170
175

20
22
24
26
30
32
36
38
42
45
48
48
52
58
58

30
32
36
40
45
48
52
55
60
65
70
75
82
88
92

98
100
110
120
140
150
160
170
185
200
210
230
250
260
280

75
80
85
90
105
110
120
130
145
160
170
190
195
200
210

48
50
55
60
68
72
80
85
92
98
105
115
125
130
135

48
52
60
63
70
75
85
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—

45
48
52
60
65
70
78
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—

in the GOST table up to 225 mm.

Staple size

The distance between the caves in the throat is 3-4 mm, and in other places it is larger. Please note the risks that were originally carried out according to the model. The wire can be drilled directly with a diameter of 18mm. First find the center. If there is no metal for the compass, use it normally. Draw a circle on the cardboard with a circle with a diameter of 18 mm. Shrink the circle.

Attach it to the rounding of the control marks at the bottom of the throat. With a regular needle piercing the center of the jug, mark this center in the throat. Remove the circle and fix the center. Protect the workpiece in the handle and turn the hole on a vertical drilling machine.

You can use drilling for drilling. But then you should use exercises with a diameter of 3-5 mm. Avoid overheating the drill, remove it from the hole together with the drilled 0 drillers and the bottom of the drill in a glass of water “Before drilling the deep throat of the third, to cause a risk in the region of half the diameter of the exercise, take a risk.

When this third risk is suspected, place caves with a drilling diameter of plus 1 mm. The drill bar, strictly perpendicular to the plane of the workpiece, should not touch the control marks. Remove the plug from the vice and position it so that the cut is a saw blade for metal blades, controlled by the risks of drilling holes or storing holes. The remaining partitions between the holes are cut with a narrow chisel on a solid steel base (on wires, rails, panels, etc.).

Again in the bag, cut out the hollow flat file (side surfaces). Use a half round file for the rounded part of the throat. Leave 0.5mm of coating additive throughout. Before applying, you can do without a chisel, drill another hole with a larger diameter, remove the barrier between. In easily spaced holes with a diameter of 3-5 mm.

Move on from the control and the third marking risk that was originally drilled.

After performing the second key spill on the opposite side of the workpiece, having edited the forging or stamping size to 19x22, carefully remove the remaining additive with a 0.5mm finish.

You can check the correctness of the throat using the "while clearing" matrix. Before doing this, check the nut with a brush for parallelism of the faces and the size between them.

The last procedure remains - consolidation. At home, the mushroom button on each side can be heated to gas.

In the case of a classic furnace or heated part of the fire, it is difficult to switch from light red to the bright red color that appears at a temperature of 800-900 ° C, for better heating of a blast furnace or using a special furnace. The key is taken from the bench or wire wound in advance onto the handle and dropped vertically into the water from the sponge on one side of the key. Leave and dip until lips become dull.

Place some sponge in the air. Then dip them in water for perfect cooling. Repeat for the jaws on the opposite side of the key.

During the intermediate cooling sponges in the air, they can be cleared of weight. If you know in advance that you cannot consolidate the lips, make them more massive.

Sometimes the nut and lock on one screw are in such a position that you need a thin-lipped wrench.

Is it possible to make at least a one-way wrench without a key, but if the nut needs to be unwound? Well, let's say, for the anchor that attaches the Elochka table mixer to the washbasin. Without a doubt you can.

You only need to know the size between opposite faces or the length of the faces. For example, the length of the face is equal to half the diameter of the circle that defines the curved part of the throat (Fig. 11a). Mark the markings on the steel surface as described above. Large and disposable buttons can even be cut from a gas burner plate without further processing of the metal.

Hold your hand to handle the key in such a way as to avoid damaging your palm.

A wrench is a common tool that is used quite often. For something as simple as tightening nuts or bolts, there are many wrench options available, not even counting the highly specialized wrenches. Just a simple listing of the types of this tool will take more than one minute, and each type has its own purpose, its advantages and disadvantages, which are important to know, here are the main types: carob, cap, combined (carob on one end, cap on the other), end , divorceable.

Open end wrenches

When it comes to talking about a wrench, it is usually the open-end wrench that comes to mind. In an open-end wrench, the nut is fixed between jaws resembling horns, which gave this wrench its name - open-end wrench. Another name for this type, also used in GOST, is an open-jaw wrench.

open-end wrench

The longitudinal axis of the head and the longitudinal axis of the handle are at an angle, usually this angle is 15° (there are keys with a different angle).

This was done to make it easier to work in confined spaces.

The angle between the axes of the head and the handle is also made different, for example 75°, while the angles are combined in one key.

A key with the same jaw size on both sides,
with jaw angles of 15° and 75°

Often an open-end wrench has two heads (double-ended wrench), one at the ends of the handle, for different sizes of nuts. This halves the number of items in a set of such keys.

Open-end wrenches are widely used due to their relative versatility and simplicity, despite serious disadvantages. The main disadvantage of the open-end wrench is that there are only two small contact zones that are close to the corners of the nut. Pressure on these zones tends to crush the corners; if the size of the throat is slightly larger than the size of the nut, then the wrench will press directly on two corners and, with force, will crush them. The same thing will happen when the key is the right size, but the force will be much greater. As the thickness of the lips decreases, the likelihood of wrinkled corners increases.

An impact wrench, used to unscrew stubborn (sticky or rusty) nuts or bolts, has a special thickening at the second end that receives blows from a hammer or sledgehammer.

Manufacturers offer open-end wrenches with a modified lip profile. For example, IBEX keys have one lip that is shortened and has a small protrusion, while the other is made convex and the notch is also changed. Thanks to this modification, the key now has two advantages. Firstly, the speed of action - the key can be rearranged without removing the hook from the throat, but only slightly moving it back. Secondly, the contact patches are further away from the corners of the nut, which reduces the possibility of lubricating the edges. A simpler modification can consist of either creating a slight convexity of the working surface or corrugating it. Manufacturers claim that wrenches with a convex working surface can even work with nuts or bolts that have wrinkled edges.

IBEX key (UNIOR)

Box spanners

A box wrench, also known as a ring wrench, is a more advanced type of wrench than an open-end wrench. Its design does not have the main disadvantage of open-end wrenches, which have only two small contact spots. The head of the spanner spans the entire nut and, under load, the pressure is distributed over all six faces of the nut or bolt, that is, instead of two contact spots, there are six of them, in addition, the contact spots are located a little further from the corners, this all almost completely eliminates bending of the corners. The head of a spanner wrench is smaller in size compared to an open-end wrench for the same nut, and in general they are more convenient to work with.

The spanner head profile can be with 12 edges (the most common option) or 6 (TORX profile). It is more convenient to work with a twelve-sided wrench and only needs to turn 30° to work, while a wrench with a TORX profile needs 60°, so the latter may not cope with screwing or unscrewing in tight spaces. But a wrench with a TORX profile, thanks to its large edges, has a larger contact area, and it is further from the corners of the nut. As a result, you can apply more force with this wrench without fear of smearing the corners.

The ring may lie in the same plane as the handle (flat key), may be inclined at an angle, usually 15° (bent key), or have an elbow (bent key). For different situations, a certain arrangement of the ring is optimal (sometimes the only possible), but the most universal is a key with a bent head; flat ones are almost never used.

Ratchet spanners (more on them below) are sometimes made with a hinged head.

Like open-end wrenches, socket wrenches are often made with two rings of different sizes.

Percussion modifications are available that differ from horn impact only in the head.

For cases where it is impossible to put the key on top, there is an option with an open ring (slotted key). Such situations often arise when servicing hydraulic and pneumatic installations.

The handle of the wrench, for working in hard-to-reach places, can be curved, for example, a motor (starter) wrench is curved in the shape of a crescent (C-shaped), there are also S-shaped wrenches.

Combination wrenches

The combination of an open-end wrench on one handle, on one end, and a spanner of the same size, on the other, created a wrench devoid of the disadvantages of each of them individually. Combination wrenches are the most popular and common. Of course, manufacturers are not limited to a combination of open-end and socket wrenches; they also combine other types, for example open-end and socket, but if we talk about a combination wrench without specifying which one, then we are talking specifically about an open-end wrench.

There are modifications with the head rotated 90°; in this case, when working, the palm rests on the wide plane of the head, and not on the narrow part.

Adjustable wrenches

An adjustable wrench, simply put, is an open-end wrench with a variable distance between the jaws. They are more often used in everyday life than in professional work, and in everyday life they are probably more common than other wrenches.

The dislike of professionals towards them is well explained by their significant shortcomings, namely:

The relatively large size of the head can become an obstacle when working in hard-to-reach places.
The play of the movable jaw does not allow the nut to be tightly compressed, as a result of which, with a relatively small force, the wrench will smooth out the corners of the nut and break off, which can cause injury to a person.
Over time, the moving jaw mechanism wears out, causing even more play.
Low strength prevents the creation of high torque.
The need to constantly adjust the position of the movable jaw.

And there is only one advantage - the variable distance between the jaws. And this advantage can be negated by a socket wrench with interchangeable heads or a bicycle one.

Socket wrenches

Socket wrenches have a recess in the end, usually in the form of a hexagon, enclosing a bolt or nut; they are primarily used in servicing automobiles. Often these keys are L-shaped, with a hexagonal notch on both ends. Moreover, the size of the notch on both sides is the same, that is, not like, for example, ring wrenches. This is due to the different functionality of the two ends: with the long part you can reach deeply “hidden” bolts, but at the same time the lever will be shorter and it will be possible to create a small torque, covering the bolts with the short end, while the long part creates a large torque. Knowing that to unscrew a bolt, more force is required than was applied when tightening, due to souring of the threaded connection, when tightening, you can use the short part as a lever (if this is possible and the bolt is tightened tightly enough), and to unscrew the long part, this will protect you from a situation where a tightly tightened bolt or nut cannot be tightened.

A socket wrench can have a twelve-sided recess, like a socket wrench, with the same pros and cons compared to the TORX profile, namely: to work, it only needs to rotate 30°, it is more convenient for them to work, it will lubricate the corners of the bolt with less force or less bolt head wear. Sometimes hex and twelve-sided heads are combined in one key.

Keys are produced with the head attached to the handle through a hinge. In this case, the sizes of the heads at both ends are different.

There are T-keys with one head; in the form of a cross - some balloons; with replaceable heads, significantly reducing the dimensions of the set; Various accessories are available for replacement heads.

Manufacturers also offer the following options:

It has a very significant drawback - the very large size of the head, which limits its use.

Tubular wrenches

A tubular wrench is a tube with a hexagon formed at the ends; holes are made in the tube for a knob (a rod that acts as a lever). The size of the hexagon at the ends of one key is different. Such simple keys are sometimes equipped with equipment and machines, in particular cars.

Sometimes manufacturers bend the tube to create an L-shaped tubular wrench. They have the same hexagon size at the ends of one key, and the functionality of the positions is the same as that of L-shaped socket wrenches.

A type of tubular wrench is a spark plug wrench (for automobile spark plugs), which has a hexagon on one side.

The cavity of the tube can accommodate protruding parts of threaded connections, for example, strongly protruding parts of a spark plug.

Ratchet wrenches

Socket and socket wrenches have modifications with a ratcheting mechanism (or, in other words, with a ratchet). The main advantage of a ratchet wrench is that you don’t have to flip the wrench. Another important advantage is the very small angle through which the wrench must be turned to tighten or unscrew the nut. Ratchet mechanisms differ, in particular, in the number of teeth; if the mechanism has 72 teeth, then 5° is enough to rotate, if 40, then 9°, etc., the angle is 360° divided by the number of teeth. This is very important when working in very cramped conditions.

The disadvantage of the ratchet is that it is the weak point of the wrench and breaks under excessive load, at a significantly higher cost of such a tool.

Other keys

In this topic it would be useful to mention other keys that are just as important as those described above. Thus, the bicycle key, familiar to many, used to be an integral part of any bicycle.