What Is a Ratchet Screwdriver?
A ratchet screwdriver is a screwdriver with a ratchet mechanism.
Screwdrivers are used to tighten or remove screws by turning them slightly by hand. In this process, an ordinary screwdriver requires the user to change grips gradually.
Ratchet screwdrivers, however, do not require the handles to be changed, and screws can be tightened or removed only by repetitive movements.
Uses of Ratchet Screwdrivers
Ratchet screwdrivers are used for tightening and removing screws. They are used in a wide range of applications, from product manufacturing to DIY, but are most often used to increase work efficiency.
When assembling equipment, there are cases where there is not enough space for tightening screws, and in such cases, ratchet screwdrivers with a special shape are used.
Ratchet Screwdriver Principle
The ratchet mechanism is a system that rotates in one direction only and spins out when rotated in the opposite direction. The ratchet screwdriver is an application of this ratchet mechanism to a screwdriver.
Ratchet screwdrivers, while convenient, are a bit more difficult to handle. When tightening a screw, the screw may not be tightened because it moves along with the rotation of the ratchet.
One way to avoid such failures is to move the ratchet screwdriver while holding the screw in place with your other hand. Some experience is required to handle the ratchet screwdriver successfully.
Types of Ratchet Screwdrivers
Ratchet screwdrivers are classified into the following six types according to their shapes.
- General screwdriver type
- Ball Grip Type
- T-handle type
- Stubby Type
- Plate Ratchet Type
- Flexible Type
It is important to select a product that is easy to use according to the work environment.
1. General Screwdriver Type
The general screwdriver type is a ratchet screwdriver with a long, thin grip. Many products can store bits in the grip section. Bits such as Phillips, flathead, hexagonal, and Torx are attached to the tip of the screwdriver.
2. Ball Grip Type
The ball grip type ratchet screwdriver has a ball-shaped grip that is easy to grasp. It is easy to use and improves work efficiency.
Many products use a long, replaceable bit that is inserted into the grip section, rather than a short bit that is attached to the tip as in the general screwdriver type. In addition to the bit-mounting type, there are also products with fixed types and sizes, such as plus and minus bits.
If the screw to be worked on is fixed, the fixed type allows more stable work and eliminates the risk of losing bits.
3. T-Handle Type
Some ratchet screwdrivers have a T-shaped grip. The large area at the top of the handle allows the user to apply force with the palm of the hand from above. When used correctly, the screwdriver is resistant to tampering with screw threads even when tightened with high torque. Some products can store bits in the handle.
4. Stubby Type
The Stubby type is a ratchet screwdriver with a short grip. It is too compact and more difficult to grip than other types, but it is useful for tightening screws in confined spaces.
5. Plate Ratchet Type
The plate ratchet screwdriver is a low-profile ratchet screwdriver. It is also called an offset ratchet screwdriver. Because the head is small, it can handle screws in narrow or deep places. It is difficult to apply force from above, and care must be taken not to damage the screw threads when using it.
6. Flexible Type
The flexible type is a ratchet screwdriver with a long, flexible tube-like tip. It can access screws in very deep places that even the stubby type or plate ratchet type cannot reach.
Also, using a bit with a magnetic tip is convenient and safe, as the screw will stick to the bit and prevent it from falling.