月: 2023年1月

What Is a Gauge?

A gauge is a simple-to-use measuring instrument.

In the case of specialized measuring instruments, measurement values ​​are affected by the skill, knowledge, and proficiency of the individual.

Gauges, however, can be used to make measurements with high accuracy, regardless of the user’s skill level. The accuracy of the gauge itself makes measurement possible.

Uses of Gauges

There are various types of gauges depending on the object to be measured.

For example, suppose you want to measure width. In this case, block gauges are mainly used.

Other types of gauges exist, such as clearance gauges, dial gauges, and radius gauges. The feeler gauge can measure the clearance between the contact surface and the object to be measured. If you want to measure the R shape, use a radius gauge. It is important to clearly determine what kind of shape you want to measure.

One of the important things when using gauges is how they are stored and used. The gauge guarantees the measurement accuracy by the accuracy of the gauge itself.

• Placing it in a messy place and bumping it against other objects.
• Storing the gauges in an unfavorable environment, causes them to rust.
• Slip off the gauges and drop the object.

If the gauges are handled as described above, the accuracy of the gauges themselves will deteriorate and the accuracy of the measurement will also deteriorate.

How to Select Gauges

The choice of gauges varies depending on the shape to be measured. Even if the gauges are similar, the grade will vary depending on the purpose of use, so it is necessary to investigate the grade as well.

The following is a list of several types of gauges for reference:

• Block gauges
  Block gauges are block-shaped gauges with a fixed width. The width is measured by combining block gauges. They can also be used to check the accuracy of measuring instruments such as micrometers.                                                                             There are four grades: K, 0, 1, and 2. The grade varies depending on whether the gauges are used to measure processed products or to check the accuracy of inspection equipment.
• Filler gauges (clearance gauges)
  Clearance gauges are thin metal plates of different thicknesses.
• Radius Gauges
  Radius gauges are used to measure the shape of curved sections. The radius gauges are placed on the curved part to check for gaps and rattling. Both convex and concave shapes are available.
• Pin gauges
  Pin gauges are cylindrical gauges. It is mainly used to measure small-diameter holes. Measurement is made by whether or not it enters the hole.
• Thread gauge
  Thread gauges are used to measure whether threads are manufactured within the allowable tolerance. Two types of gauges are available: threading and stopper gauges.

What Is a Dial Gauge?

A dial gauge is a measuring instrument used to measure the dimensional accuracy of products and the static and dynamic accuracy of facilities and equipment. When the probe is applied to the object, the needle swings and points to the scale. A dial gauge cannot measure actual dimensions.

However, it is suitable for viewing the difference from a reference dimension, and its main purpose is to measure how much difference there is in the finished dimension when the reference dimension is set to zero. There are two types of dial gauges, the lever type, and the spindle type. It is necessary to use the appropriate type according to the purpose of use.

How to Use Dial Gauges

Dial gauges are basically used by fixing them to a stand or jig.

The stand is often called a magnetic stand, and the base part has a magnet attached to it. The stand is fixed by magnetic force.

The arm part can be moved relatively freely by loosening the tightening screw. Therefore, consider the installation posture and place the stylus on the object to be measured. Regarding the application of the stylus, the lever type should be applied parallel to the object to be measured, while the spindle type should be applied perpendicular to the object to be measured.

How to Select Dial Gauges

When selecting dial gauges, first select either the lever type or the spindle type.

The lever type is suitable for measuring the static accuracy of equipment, while the spindle type is suitable for measuring dimensional accuracy. When measuring dynamic accuracy, the spindle type is easier to measure where there is a lot of movement.

• Lever-type dial gauges
  Lever-type dial gauges are suitable for measuring parallelism, shaft runout, and equipment rattling, among other applications. Some models feature a scale of 0.001mm, while others have a scale of 0.01mm. The minimum scale should be selected based on the measurement standard. There are long and short measuring points, which can be selected according to the shape of the object to be measured and the measurement location. The measuring element is thin and easily broken, so it should be handled with care.
• Spindle Dial Gauges
  Spindle-type dial gauges have a large movable range of the measuring element, which allows them to measure the repeatability of movements. When combined with a jig, they are also suitable for measuring dimensional accuracy because they can easily measure external dimensions and steps.

What Is a Disc Grinder?

A disc grinder is a versatile tool used for cutting metal and grinding wood and stone, utilizing a disk-shaped grinding wheel that rotates. Unlike the similarly named disc sander, which is suited for surface finishing, a disc grinder specializes in rough grinding of hard materials. However, due to its intense action, it is not suitable for cutting soft materials like wood, which may burn during the process.

Uses of Disc Grinders

Disc grinders are primarily used for cutting, grinding, and polishing various materials, including metal, stone, and concrete. The type of disc used—abrasive stone or diamond—determines the materials it can effectively work with. Metal cutting wheels and diamond cutters are used for their respective materials, while various discs are available for polishing applications on stone, wood, and stainless steel. Additionally, disc grinders can remove coatings, paint, and rust, and perform chamfering.

Principle of Disc Grinders

Operating at speeds ranging from 4,000 to 12,000 revolutions per minute, disc grinders can cut, grind, and polish various materials by attaching suitable discs. The choice of disc—cutting, grinding, or polishing—depends on the specific task and material involved.

1. Cutting Disc

For cutting, there are cutting wheels for metal and diamond cutters for stone and concrete. The disc’s high-speed rotation enables efficient cutting.

2. Discs for Grinding and Polishing

Various discs, including offset grinding wheels and felt discs, cater to different grinding and polishing needs, from rough processing to fine finishing.

How to Select Disc Grinders

Selection criteria for disc grinders include the material to be processed, intended use, and power source. Choosing the correct disc is crucial for safety and effectiveness. Disc grinders come in both power-supply and battery-powered models, with the former recommended for tasks requiring high power, such as metal cutting.

Other Information on Disc Grinders

1. How to Use a Disc Grinder

Safety is paramount when using a disc grinder. Wear protective gear and ensure the work area is clear. Always inspect the disc for damage before use to prevent accidents.

2. Maintenance of Disc Grinder

Regular maintenance, including cleaning and checking the motor brush for wear, is essential for optimal performance and safety. Replace the motor brush as needed to maintain efficiency.

What Is a Hammer?

A hammer is a versatile tool used for driving nails, fitting parts, forging metal, and breaking up objects. Hammers are fundamental tools in construction, metalworking, and many other fields.

Uses of Hammers

Hammers are employed in diverse tasks, including:

• Nailing and removing nails in woodworking and construction.
• Metalworking tasks like shaping and bending.
• Stone masonry and concrete testing.
• Automotive and welding work for deburring and shavings removal.

Principle of Hammers

A hammer consists of a handle and a head. The head’s weight determines its striking force, while the handle length affects control and power. Proper technique involves swinging the hammer using the arm, leveraging the head’s weight for efficient impact.

How to Select Hammers

There are many types of hammers, with different materials and weights for different purposes. It is important to understand the characteristics of each type before making a choice.

1. Type

Nail Hammers
A type of hammer with a flat surface on one side and a nail hammer on the opposite side. Since the center of gravity is biased toward the striking surface, the hammer can be worked in a stable condition.

One-Handed Hammer
One side of the hammer has a gently curved surface, almost flat, and the other side has a spherical surface. It is used for hammering in nails and pins, etc. The one with a spherical striking portion can be used for bending steel plates, etc.

Double-Hammer
One side of the hammer is flat and the other is curved with a slight bulge. It is mainly used for nailing wood but is also used for ironwork, civil engineering, and demolition work.

Temporary Hammer
Temporary hammers are used for temporary work in construction to assemble formwork for pouring concrete. The handle is long, and the striking surface becomes thinner as it gets closer to the handle, in the shape of a trumpet.

Sheet Metal Hammer
Hammer used to strike steel or aluminum plates for processing. They are used for car body repairs, roof and duct sheet metal, electrical work, and metal crafts.

Electrician’s Hammer
There are two types of hammers suitable for electrical work: the tip-cutting type, in which one side of the head has a striking surface and the other is pointed, and the gennoux type, in which both sides have striking surfaces. The most distinctive feature of the electrician’s hammer is the socket-shaped end of the handle, which can be used to attach and remove nuts.

Combination Hammer
Hammer with one side made of metal and the other made of a resin material that does not damage the material.

Peg Hammer
Hammer used for hammering pegs into the ground and pulling them out. One side of the hammer has a flat striking area, and the other side is shaped to easily hook onto a peg.

2. Material

Made of Metal
Metal hammers have the highest strength of all hammer materials and are used for hammering in nails, sheet metal working, etc.

Wooden
Unlike metal hammers, wooden hammers are lightweight. They are mainly used for assembling wooden products and for work where you do not want to damage the parts.

Plastic Hammers
Hammer whose head is made of plastic. It is mainly used for maintenance of automobiles and motorcycles. The center of gravity is made of metal, so it can deliver a solid impact.

Rubber Hammer
The head of this hammer is made of rubber. It is used for furniture assembly. Compared to wooden hammers with similar characteristics, rubber hammers can be used without damaging the material.

3. Weight

Hammers are generally classified by the weight of the head, as each product varies in shape, size, and weight.

A compact and lightweight hammer is recommended for women, but a heavy hammer is necessary for breaking stones.

Since the type of hammer used depends on the purpose, it is important to select a hammer with the optimum weight by actually swinging it.

What Are Nippers?

Nippers are cutting tools similar in shape to scissors. They have sharp blades and are used to cut wires and wiring.

Nippers are commonly used as cutting tools, so they are often used at home as well as in wiring work. They are suitable for detailed work because they can cut precise locations.

There are various types of blade tip shapes and materials, each of which has different cutting ability, cross-section of the cut, suitable materials for cutting, and suitable situations, etc. Therefore, it is important to select the right one for the intended use.

When using nippers, there is a risk of splattering of cut pieces. It is advisable to wear safety glasses.

Uses of Nippers

Nippers are mainly used for cutting metal wire. However, there are a wide variety of uses for nippers, as there are many different objects to be cut.

Nippers specialized for cutting other than metal include plastic nippers used for cutting plastic models that make it difficult for masking tape glue to stick to the blade.

Nippers are small and lightweight, and are often kept in ordinary homes. Besides home DIY and handmade products, they are also used for electrical work and repair of electrical products.

Since there is a wide range of amounts depending on the product, it is important to use the right one for the right purpose.

Principle of Nippers

Nippers are constructed by successfully utilizing the principle of leverage to achieve a high level of cutting ability. When comparing the shapes of nippers and scissors, the major difference between the two is the length of the cutting edge.

Comparing the lengths of the center axis of rotation and the cutting edge of scissors and nippers, respectively, the nipper is extremely shorter than the scissors. Applying the principle of leverage, the fulcrum is the center axis of rotation of the Nipper, the force point is the grip part, and the action point is the blade of the Nipper.

The closer the central axis of rotation of the Nipper is to the cutting edge, the closer the starting point is, and the longer the grip handle is, the more force can be applied to the cutting process, so it is easier to cut with less force.

This is the reason why it is easier to cut thick objects with scissors near the center axis of rotation, which is the fulcrum, i.e., at the root of the blade.

How to Choose Nippers

When choosing nippers, consider the following three points:

1. The Right Type of Nippers for the Item to Be Cut

Nippers are available in various types depending on the thickness and material of the item to be cut. Typical nippers are as follows:

Strong Nippers

Strong nippers are suitable for cutting hard materials such as wire and electric cable. Since the emphasis is on cutting strength rather than smoothness of the cutting surface, the cutting surface is sharp but also has the characteristic of being mountainous in shape.

Electrician’s Nippers

Electrician’s Nippers are mainly used for cutting wiring and can easily cut hard wires. Some electrician’s nippers are specially designed for wiring work and are equipped with a function to remove wiring sheathing, making them suitable for wiring work.

2. Blade Shape

There are two types of nipper blades: single-edged and double-edged. Double-edged blades are suitable for cutting hard materials, while single-edged blades are suitable for cutting soft materials. 

3. Blade Angle

There are two types of single-edged nippers: straight blades and round blades. The round blade focuses on sharpness, whereas the straight blade is designed to make the cutting surface as flat as possible.

In both cases, the steeper the blade angle, the better the cutting performance, but care must be taken because the cutting surface becomes rougher and the blade strength decreases.

Types of Nippers

As mentioned above, there are various types of nippers. In addition to strong nippers and electric nippers, the following are typical nippers:

• Heat nippers

• Diagonal Nippers
• Precision Nippers
• Plastic Nippers
• End nippers
• Micro Nippers

What Is a Hex Key Wrench?

A hex key wrench is a metal bar-shaped tool with a regular hexagonal cross-section, used to tighten bolts and screws with regular hexagonal holes.

There are different types of hex key wrench handles, each with its own characteristics. A hex key wrench can only be used with a wrench that fits the exact size of the hole. Due to the large contact area between the wrench and the hole, it is more difficult for the bolt to break and easier to transmit force compared to a screwdriver, which is a tool for tightening the same hole. Many products are sold as a set of 6~7 hexagonal wrenches of different thicknesses to accommodate holes of various sizes.

Uses of Hex Key Wrenches

Hex key wrenches come in various shapes, such as T-shape, L-shape, and screwdriver type, and their tips are also available in various thicknesses.

The most common type of hex key wrenches is the L-shaped hex key wrenches, which are the most versatile and are suitable for permanent use in the home. The T-shaped hex key wrenches are suitable for continuous long-time use and are used for adjusting road bikes, etc. The T-shaped hex key wrenches are the most common type of hex key wrenches, which are the most versatile type of hex key wrenches and are suitable for permanent use in the home. Screwdriver-type hexagonal wrenches can be tightened strongly and are suitable for DIY and other work where safety is important.

How to Select Hex Key Wrenches

Here are some important points to consider when selecting hex key wrenches:

• Shape of the handle
  As described in the “Uses of Hex Key Wrenches” section, hex key wrenches have different shapes of handles such as T-shape and L-shape, each of which is suitable for different purposes. When choosing a hex wrench, choose a shape that matches the scene in which you will use it. If you expect to use the wrench in various situations, you should buy an L-shaped wrench.
• Wrench thickness
  Hex key wrenches cannot be used unless the metal bar fits perfectly in the hole, so the thickness of the wrench must change according to the size of the hole. Since there are various sizes of holes for bolts and screws into which wrenches are inserted, be sure to select a wrench of the required thickness.
• Length of the wrench
  There are various lengths of wrenches. The longer the wrench, the stronger the force required to tighten the bolt. Therefore, a longer wrench is suitable for tightening hard bolts. On the other hand, short wrenches are easy to carry and store. If you intend to use the wrenches at home, it is recommended to choose a wrench with a short wrench and a set of multiple wrenches.

What Is a Plier?

A plier is a tool used to grasp and bend or cut wire. It can also grip and bend thin steel plates.

The gripping part at the tip is called the gripping section, which is made of metal and has a jagged edge to hold the gripped object firmly. The gripping section has a blade at the base of the gripping part, so it can cut electric wires, wire rods, and other objects.

There are several types of plier. Each type of plier has a different primary purpose, so it is necessary to select the plier best suited for the job at hand.

How to Use Pliers

Pliers are used by grasping the handle.

Place your thumb on one end of the handle and grip it with your index and middle fingers on the other end.

To open the pliers, use your pinky or ring finger to open smoothly. Because it uses the principle of leverage, you can grip the object with several times more force than you can grip it with your bare hands. The gripping force becomes stronger as the part to be gripped goes to the tip of the handle.

If it is a thin iron plate, it can be bent. If you want to hold a thick steel plate, we recommend using similarly thick pliers since regular pliers cannot grip the handle tightly enough to get a firm grip.

When cutting electric wires and barbed wire, use the blade attached to the base of the gripper. It is not a cutting tool and cannot cut very thick objects. It is recommended to wear protective goggles to avoid flying debris when cutting.

How to Choose Pliers

The purpose of using pliers varies depending on the type of pliers, so we will introduce the tasks that each plier type is good at:

• Pliers
  Pliers are generally defined as having a wide gripping area. The main purpose of pliers are to grip large objects such as steel plates.
• Radio pliers
  Radio pliers are pliers with tapered end. They are suitable for gripping thin objects and precision bending work. They are not suitable for gripping large objects because the tip bends when strong force is applied. There are also types with a bent tip. Radio pliers also have blades, so it can cut wire.
• Crimping pliers
  Crimping pliers are specialized for crimping wire terminals. With the terminal lightly pinched and fixed, pass the wire between the terminals, then hold the pliers and crimp the terminal. These pliers are specialized for crimping and are not suitable for gripping or cutting other objects.

As mentioned above, be sure to know what you are good at and choose the right tool for the job to work safely.

What Is a Clamp?

Clamps are tools used to hold materials firmly in place so they do not move or come apart.

They come in a variety of shapes and sizes and are used in a wide range of applications including woodworking, metalworking, construction, and engineering; C-clamps, bar clamps, pipe clamps, spring clamps, toggle clamps, and wood clamps are some of the more common types.

Each clamp is designed to apply a specific type of grip or pressure. Various mechanisms such as screws, springs, and levers can be used to apply and release the clamp force.

Clamps are essential tools in many tasks that require securing objects, such as gluing, drilling, sawing, welding, and soldering. They are also used in many industrial and professional settings as well as in the home and DIY.

Uses of Clamps

The main purpose of clamps is to hold materials in place, typically to prevent them from moving or coming apart during certain tasks. Uses vary from construction and manufacturing to woodworking and home repair.

For example, in woodworking, a clamp may be used to hold two pieces of wood together while glue is applied and allowed to dry. In metalworking, clamps may be used to hold the workpiece in place during machining or welding.

Other uses include compressing or deforming materials, temporarily securing them, and applying pressure for testing and measuring.

Principle of Clamps

The principle of clamps is to hold and fix materials by applying force. It grips the object securely and stably, enabling more accurate and controlled operations.

Clamps usually consist of two or more jaws for gripping the object and a mechanism that applies force to the jaws to clamp the object. A secure and stable grip then applies pressure while allowing adjustment and release as needed.

Note that the principle of how force is applied to achieve this gripping action differs depending on the type. For example, C-type clamps use a screw mechanism to tighten the jaws, while spring clamps use a spring to grip. Toggle clamps use a lever mechanism to clamp the jaws, while bar clamps use a slide bar and screws to clamp the jaws.

Types of Clamps

There are many different types of clamps, each designed for a specific application or purpose.

Typical types of clamps include the following:

1. C-Shaped Clamp

This type of clamp has a C-shaped frame with a screw tightening and loosening mechanism. They are often used for woodworking and metalworking.

2. Bar Clamp

Clamps with a sliding bar that can be adjusted to fit a variety of sizes. They are often used for woodworking and furniture making.

3. Spring Clamp

Clamps that use spring force to clamp an object. They are often used to temporarily hold objects in place, such as for gluing or painting.

4. Pipe Clamp

Clamps for clamping pipes or cylindrical objects. They are often equipped with a screw mechanism for tightening or loosening.

5. Toggle Clamp

These clamps apply pressure to the object to be clamped by means of a lever mechanism. They are often used in machining and welding applications.

6. Wood Clamp

These clamps have two wooden jaws and are tightened by turning a screw. They are often used for woodworking.

7. Band Clamp

A clamp that encloses the material with a flexible band or strap. They are often used to clamp irregularly shaped items or to glue large surfaces.

8. Quick Release Clamp

These clamps are equipped with a lever, trigger, or other mechanism that allows the clamp to be released quickly and easily. They are often used in woodworking and metalworking.

How to Select a Clamp

There are several points to consider when selecting the right clamp for a particular application. By selecting the appropriate clamp for your application, you will be able to grip the workpiece securely and stably.

The specific points are as follows:

1. Size and Capacity

The size and capacity of the clamp must be commensurate with the size and weight of the object to be clamped. It is important to check the maximum opening width of the clamp, the depth of the throat, and the clamping force to ensure that it is suitable for the job.

2. Type of Material

The type of material to be clamped should be considered, as some clamps are suitable for certain materials and others are not. For example, clamps for metalworking may not be suitable for use on delicate and fragile materials such as glass or ceramic.

3. Type of Application

The nature of the work to be performed also influences the choice of clamp. For example, welding or soldering may require a clamp that can withstand high temperatures.

4. Accessibility

Accessibility of the clamp to the object should also be considered. If the object is in a tight or hard-to-reach location, flexible or angled jaws may be necessary.

5. Durability

The durability and quality of the clamp should also be considered, especially if it will be used frequently or in demanding applications. It is important to choose a clamp that is made of high-quality materials and has a strong, reliable mechanism.

What Is a Ratchet Wrench?

A ratchet wrench is a hand tool designed for tightening and loosening bolts and nuts with a built-in ratchet mechanism in the head. This mechanism allows rotation in one direction while idling in the opposite, making it more efficient than traditional wrenches by eliminating the need to reposition after each turn.

Uses of Ratchet Wrenches

Ratchet wrenches are versatile tools used in automotive repair, furniture assembly, bicycle maintenance, and more. They are particularly valuable in tight spaces or for tasks requiring repetitive motion.

Principle of Ratchet Wrenches

The ratchet mechanism consists of a pawl and gear within the wrench head. This setup permits force transmission in one direction while allowing free rotation in the opposite, marked by a distinctive clicking sound. A lever on the wrench head switches the force direction, enabling both tightening and loosening actions.

How to Select Ratchet Wrenches

Consider the following when choosing a ratchet wrench:

• Size of the Bolt/Nut: Ensure the wrench head matches the bolt or nut size to avoid damage.
• Working Space: In restricted spaces, opt for a compact model or a plate ratchet wrench for better fit and maneuverability.
• Material: Choose between lightweight aluminum for ease of use and durable stainless steel for strength and longevity.

Other Information on Ratchet Wrenches

Before use, verify the head size matches the nut or bolt. Position the wrench head perpendicular to the nut and switch the lever (if present) to the desired rotation direction. Unlike standard wrenches, the ratchet wrench doesn’t require removal from the nut for repositioning, streamlining the process of fastening or loosening.

What Is a Monkey Wrench?

A monkey wrench is a tool that can be used to loosen and tighten bolts and nuts of various sizes with a single wrench.

The worm gear on the end of the wrench moves the jaw of the wrench to adjust its size.

Normally, you need to carry several wrenches to match the size of the bolt or nut. However, if you have a monkey wrench, you can use only one.

Uses of Monkey Wrenches

Monkey wrenches are used to loosen and tighten bolts and nuts.

It is especially useful when loosening and tightening bolts and nuts of various sizes at a time at work sites. With a conventional wrench, it is necessary to change tools for each size of bolt or nut, which may take a lot of time and effort to change tools or risk falling off the wrench.

The basic usage is the same as that of a wrench and is very simple.
First, apply the monkey wrench to the bolt or nut to be loosened or tightened, and use the worm gear to move the width of the wrench tip to adjust the size of the bolt or nut to be clamped. After the size is adjusted, the wrench is rotated and torque is applied to loosen or tighten the bolt or nut.

Since the tip of the monkey wrench is movable, there is a misalignment in the meshing part of the worm gears, and torque is easily lost during loosening and tightening operations. Therefore, it may not be suitable for parts that need to be tightened or loosened, such as bolts that have become too hard due to rust or screw lock.

Principle of Monkey Wrenches

The principle of monkey wrenches is to change the size of the wrench tip by the action of worm gear.

The worm gear is generally composed of a cylindrical gear (worm) and a bevel gear (worm wheel), and rotating the worm rotates the worm wheel with which it is meshed to change its position. While the advantage is that the size can be easily varied by adjusting the worm gear, the wrench tip deteriorates quickly because the wrench tip is moved by the combination of two gears.

How to Select Monkey Wrenches

When selecting monkey wrenches, there are three things to keep in mind:

1. Opening Size

The most important factor in selecting monkey wrenches is the opening size. Although it has a worm gear and is movable, the range of opening is fixed. You need to choose a monkey wrench that opens larger than the size of the bolt or nut you want to loosen or tighten. However, be careful not to make the opening size too large, as it will not be able to be clamped firmly

2. Check if the Worm Gear Is Not Rattling

Basically, a worm gear is attached to the wrench, but if the worm gear loosens while loosening/tightening the bolt, the wrench will not be able to be clamped firmly.

3. Size

The surrounding environment when loosening and tightening bolts and nuts should also be considered. If you are in a small space, a thin type with a short handle will be easier to work in a crevice. If there is a large space, a longer and thicker handle will loosen/tighten with less force and be more stable.