What Is a Strap Wrench?
A strap wrench is a tool used to remove or tighten a belt around a cylindrical object, such as a pipe or can lid, by wrapping a belt around it. There are two types of belts: fiber and rubber. Both exhibit high frictional force, making them primarily suitable for the following applications:
- Turning something that does not catch and slides around by hand.
- Opening hard lids that have hardened and cannot be opened by grip alone
In addition, the use of a soft material belt, despite having frictional force, allows fastening without damaging the object to be used.
How to Use Strap Wrenches
To use a strap wrench, first, wrap the belt around the circumference of the object to be fastened, and after one round, pass it through the main body of the strap wrenches.
Then, after squeezing the belt to fit tightly around the circumference, turn the strap wrenches with the handle. At this time, if the belt is not squeezed properly, it will slip.
Therefore, before applying a strong force, it is necessary to apply a light force and check how it catches before applying a full-fledged force. Also, be careful not to pull too hard, as the belt may tear. Rubber belts, in particular, are more prone to tearing than cloth belts.
How to Select Strap Wrenches
When selecting strap wrenches, choose whether it is made of rubber or fiber, depending on how much force is required for fastening. Rubber belts have less tensile strength than textile belts and are not suitable for high-force fastening. For fastening with high force, choose a fiber belt. Since fiber strap wrenches are available in large and small sizes, it is advisable to select the size of the strap wrenches according to the size of the destination.
However, rubber strap wrenches also have their advantages. The handles of rubber strap wrenches are often made of plastic, making them light and easy to carry. In addition, rubber provides a strong grip and can be used on slippery, smooth-surfaced pipes. For use as a non-slip grip, rubber strap wrenches are easy to handle. However, the handle part is also easily damaged, so care should be taken when handling it.
Another similar type of strap wrench is the chain wrench, in which the belt portion is a chain. Since the chain is made of metal, there is a possibility of damaging the partner it is wrapped around. However, it is an option when you want to fasten with a very strong force.