Almost every home has a large set of all kinds of tools. However, the most sought-after item is a screwdriver. This tool is applicable to socket installation, vehicle maintenance, furniture assembly and disassembly, household appliance and computer repair, home repair work, and so on. At the moment, there are many types of screwdrivers.
A bit of history
Different types of screwdrivers did not appear immediately. Initially, such a tool was something like a wrench. A screwdriver appeared as soon as the screw was created. It happened around the 17th century. When the heads of hardware began to change, tools with different tips were invented. As a result, there were screwdrivers. More modern instruments may consist of several interchangeable parts.
What does a screwdriver consist of
Recently, many types of screwdrivers have appeared. Moreover, each tool has a specific purpose. However, it unites all screwdrivers - a simple design. Such a tool consists of the following parts:
- Sting or tip. This is the working part of the screwdriver. Exactlythis detail of the tool determines the main differences between the tools. The scope of the screwdriver depends on the shape of the tip. Some are for phone and laptop repairs only, while others are for furniture assembly only.
- Rod. This part of the screwdriver can have a different thickness and length. These indicators affect the size of the tool, as well as which hardware it can be used to screw in or unscrew.
- Handle. There is only one requirement for this part of the tool - ergonomics. The screwdriver should fit comfortably in your hand. There are two types of handles: classic cylindrical, covered with special anti-slip materials, and T-shaped. The latter option is considered more convenient, as the design significantly increases the torque.
Main types of screwdrivers
Some screwdrivers have a metal tip. It is located at the end of the handle and can be hexagonal or flat. This screwdriver is impact. In other words, you can hit it with a hammer. The main difference between the tools lies in the tip. Today is very popular:
- flat or slotted;
- cross;
- cross-shaped with guides;
- hex;
- star screwdriver.
In addition to the above tools, specialized tools are available for sale. Often, such screwdrivers are developed by manufacturers of expensive and branded equipment who are trying toprotect your products from copying, as well as from unauthorized opening.
Features of cross-tipped tools
A Phillips screwdriver is usually marked with two PH symbols. This is the most common variety. It is worth noting that two recessed slots on the hardware provide a secure grip on the tip of the tool. Due to this, the mount is fixed more securely. The screw with such a screwdriver can be screwed tighter than a flat one.
If the hardware is made of high-quality metal, and not of raw steel, then it is simply impossible to rip the slots off the tool. Screws are used both in everyday life and in professional construction. Therefore, a Phillips screwdriver is used in many areas.
There is another kind of instrument. In the furniture industry, a Phillips screwdriver with guides is used. Such a tool has not only a sting, but also additional edges that provide a more reliable grip on the hardware.
Hex screwdriver
This tool is marked HEX. This screwdriver allows you to apply a torque that is 10 times stronger than that of a Phillips screwdriver.
This tool can screw in hardware used to fasten some parts in household appliances and electronics, furniture and so on. A hex screwdriver is used in many industries, as it guarantees a reliable connection.
Flat tip tool features
Slotted or, in other words,a flathead screwdriver is usually marked with several Latin characters SL. The main purpose is to screw in or unscrew screws that have one straight slot on the heads. It should be noted that such hardware is not able to withstand heavy loads. It is most often used for minor household repairs.
A flathead screwdriver does not allow the screw to be screwed in tightly, as the peculiar head does not allow the mount to be tightly tightened. With a strong pressure on the hardware, the slot of the tool is often cut off. It is not always possible to unscrew a rusted screw with a flat screwdriver.
Star tool
The asterisk screwdriver is marked with TORX symbols. Such tools are used infrequently and they are not available in every home. Their peculiarity lies in the unusual shape of the tip. Such tools are usually used to fix hardware that is used to protect thin computer and mobile gadgets. The main purpose of such screws is to restrict access to people who do not understand such technology.
Selection rules
As already mentioned, the sizes of screwdrivers can be completely different. Therefore, when choosing such a tool, special attention should be paid to markings. The code consists not only of letters, but also of numbers. What do they mean? The numbers are the size of the item. In this case, you can see the following data:
0 - the tool has a rod with a diameter of 4 millimeters and a length of not more than 80 millimeters;
1 - the screwdriver is equipped with a rod with a diameter of 5 millimeters, andlength 80 - 100 millimeters;
2 - in this case, the diameter of the rod is 6 millimeters, and the length is 100 - 120 millimeters;
3 - the screwdriver has a shaft with a diameter of 8 millimeters and a length of 120 - 150 millimeters;
4 - a tool with a rod thickness of 10 millimeters and a length of 150-200 millimeters.
Destination of screwdrivers by marking
To determine what type of hardware this or that screwdriver is suitable for, you should, again, pay attention to the marking:
0 - suitable for hardware with a diameter of not more than 2 millimeters;
1 - for screws with a diameter of 2, 1 - 3 mm;
2 - for hardware, diameter 3, 1-5 millimeters;
3 - for screws with a diameter of 5, 1 - 7 millimeters;
4 - for hardware with a diameter of more than 7.1 mm.
Universal screwdriver
For home use, it is better to purchase a universal screwdriver. They are sold in large sets and have many attachments. As a rule, in the handle of such a tool there is a hexagonal recess, as well as a powerful magnet that allows you to hold the sting. By the way, tips in this case are called bits. Six edges allow you to keep the sting from turning, and the magnet from falling out. The last element of the tool transfers its abilities to the tip. Thanks to this, the screw or screw is held on the slots.
It is worth noting that professionals do not use such screwdrivers, since most of the bits remain unclaimed. But for homeThese sets are perfect for use. You never know what kind of screwdriver you'll need.
Screwdriver for electricians
Every electrician knows how to use an indicator screwdriver. This tool has a unique handle that allows you to easily determine where the phase is and where is zero. It is enough to insert the tip of the screwdriver into the socket. The lit indicator indicates the phase.
