Different Types of Wrenches and Their Uses

There is no doubt that adjustable wrenches are one of the most popular and versatile tools available. The adjustable wrenches are equipped with a movable jaw which can be adjusted in accordance with the sizes of the bolts and nuts by controlling a thumb screw. Some versions may even feature a sliding lever while others will have different types of handles such as comfort grip (i.e., rubber-dipped handle) or standard grip (non-coated).

Precision torque wrenches are used to tighten bolts and nuts to a predetermined torque value. Using these tools will prevent damage caused by over-tightening or by under-tightening joints. These torque wrenches are ideal for applications in the automotive industry, aircraft, and heavy machinery requiring precision torque. Make sure to determine unit of torque that is required before purchasing, some torque wrenches may offer measurements in Newton Meter (Nm) while others may offer Foot/Pound (Ft/Lbs) or Inch/Pound (in/Lbs).

Pipe Wrenches are manufactured with either strong ductile-iron or aluminum material. They are ideal for fastening or dismantling pipe joints in plumbing, HVAC as well as for general household piping maintenance. As these wrenches have serrated jaws, they are capable of strongly gripping pipes and fittings. The upper jaws of these wrenches can be adjusted according to different pipe sizes ranging from minimum 3/4” to 8” diameters.

Combination wrenches are essential multi-functional tools that consist of a box end (closed end) on one side and a crescent U-shaped end (open end) on the other. Both ends usually come in the same size for fastening and loosening bolts/nuts. On the market, there are also variants with ratcheting box ends. Highly efficient and durable tools, these combination wrenches are widely used for household maintenance, manufacturing, and automotive industry.

Box end wrenches are designed with enclosed heads on both ends which allow them to fit completely around the bolts and nuts they are applied to. Box end wrenches are often used to tighten and loosen bolts and nuts and are used for the same purposes as combination wrenches. Available in 6-point or 12-point heads to maximize torque and turning power. The ends of some box end wrenches may differ in size.

Open end wrenches have a U-shape open heads on both ends, they are usually in the same sizes on both ends. Some brands of open-end wrenches are manufactured with a special jaw design to grip the nuts and bolts more securely and prevent any slippage.

The Swivel Head Socket Wrenches are industrial grade tools with an adjustable swivel head at both ends that can rotate to different angles up to 180 Degrees. The swivel head design allows torque to be applied even at unusual angles and in confined spaces.

Insulated wrenches are engineered to provide users a high level of safety and protection against electric shock with its insulated coating material. Ideal for use in electrical applications, at construction sites and machinery in high voltage areas. A variety of insulated wrenches are available for different user’s applications, including adjustable wrench, open end wrench and more.

Engineered with nonferrous metal alloys, these non-sparking wrenches have been tested and proven not to produce any sparks when in use. These wrenches are safer to use in hazardous environments where flammable or combustible vapors or liquids are present. A variety of non-sparking wrenches have been developed to meet the job requirements.

The Chain Wrench and the Chain Tong are pipe wrenches with a chain instead of a hook jaw. Widely used in fastening and dismantling heavy duty pipes in large diameter. These wrenches are equipped with a forged steel handle and a heavy sprocket chain attached to it. Chain Wrenches are usually rust-proof treated, which makes it ideal for use in marine industry, plumbing works and waterworks.