What Is a Hand Nibbler?
A hand nibbler is a manual tool designed for cutting metal plates and other materials. They work by moving a blade up and down to cut through materials such as steel, aluminum, and plastic plates ranging in thickness from 0.5 mm to 1.5 mm. Hand nibblers enable both straight and curved cuts without producing the loud noise associated with power tools.
Uses of Hand Nibblers
Hand nibblers are primarily used for processing metal sheets, making them ideal for tasks like creating holes in computer chassis for fan parts or fabricating robot components. They are particularly useful for expanding pre-drilled holes or making large or uniquely shaped cuts without the noise of electric tools.
Principle of Hand Nibblers
These tools are used to cut by gripping the handle to move the blade, leveraging light force to bite through metal plates gradually. This method ensures minimal distortion of the metal, produces clean cuts with few burrs and allows for precise control over straight or curved cuts. Safety measures such as wearing gloves and eye protection are recommended to prevent injury from metal fragments.
How to Select Hand Nibblers
Selecting the right-hand nibblers involves considering the following factors:
1. Material to Be Processed
Choose hand nibblers based on the types of materials and thickness they can cut, especially when dealing with hard materials like stainless steel.
2. Handle
Opt for models with ergonomic, non-slip grips and longer handles for ease of use, particularly for cutting thicker materials or for extended use.
3. Blade Width
The blade width affects the precision of cuts. For detailed work, select hand nibblers with narrower blades to avoid cutting beyond intended boundaries.
4. Replacement Blades
For frequent users, choose hand nibblers with available replacement blades to ensure longevity and maintain cutting efficiency. Use dedicated replacement blades to guarantee compatibility.