What are pliers, what are they for?

There are numerous types of tools that can be found in every household. Among the most frequently encountered are pliers. Despite our familiarity with them since childhood, many individuals mistakenly associate them with another type of hinged pliers known as tongue-and-groove pliers.

If you frequently engage in repairs, it is essential to understand the distinction between these tools. Let us delve deeper into pliers and explore where they can be most advantageous.

What kind of tool are pliers

Pliers are a type of manual tool. This tool consists of a pair of handles on one side and a pair of "jaws" on the other side that can be used to grip objects. The jaws are flat and have shallow grooves on their surface.

Using this tool makes it easy to grip small objects, different surfaces, bend metal sheets and wires, extract parts, and perform various locksmith and electrical tasks.

Fun fact: Pliers are sometimes referred to as pliers, which associates them with their closest relatives – the pliers. However, unlike pliers, they do not have any indentations on the surface of the gripping part. This is the main distinction between these tools.

The device’s main characteristics are specified in the relevant article of State Standard No. 11563 94. According to the regulation, the tool’s length can range from 125 to 220 mm. Along with the length requirement, the standard also dictates the materials it should be made from. The specified standard is U7-A carbon steel, which undergoes double hardening to give it exceptional strength. The tip’s surface is coated with a special varnish to protect it from corrosion. This varnish is applied using three distinct technologies:

1. Chemical oxidation, which results in a graphite color with a dark gray tint for the pliers.
2. Chemical phosphating. The tip has a characteristic matte gray color that can be either light or darker in shade.
3. Chrome coating. By utilizing this technique, the highest level of corrosion resistance can be attained.

What kind of pliers there are

When it comes to choosing the right tool, there are various options available, making the decision more challenging. Tools can vary in size, ranging from wide to narrow, and may also come with special locking mechanisms. However, the most notable difference lies in the type of working surface they offer. Based on this criterion, tools can be categorized into the following types:

1. Round-jaw pliers. These pliers have an elongated working surface that is cone-shaped in shape. Often these models come with built-in wire cutters. The tool is made convenient to use with the help of plastic grip handles. It is extremely useful for working with cable cores and for holding parts in place during soldering. If the pliers have a slightly angled working surface, it becomes easier to reach and manipulate hard-to-access parts.
2. Adjustable pliers. These pliers are also known as sliding pliers. They are commonly used for bending metal sheets or dismantling clamps. They are also convenient for various other metalworking tasks.
3. Toggle. These tools are made using durable carbon steel that is coated with galvanized spray. This process creates a high-quality tool that can be utilized in assembly lines and machine shops.
4. Crimping. Manufactured from strong steel, these tools are known for their versatility and compact size. They are specifically designed for crimping various types of cables, such as telephone or fiber optic cables.
5. Dielectric pliers, also known as "electrician’s tools," are made from a special electric steel, providing the material with unique properties. These pliers are hardened in oil during production and have reinforced edges on the working surface. As a result, they are capable of working with any type of cable.
6. Elongated pliers, also referred to as duckbill pliers, have an elongated working surface that is specifically designed for grasping small parts. In addition to its convenient shape, the working surface of these pliers is known for its exceptional strength.
7. The working surface of the pliers is slightly curved, which makes them convenient for working with miniature parts. This design feature has made them highly sought after among jewelers.
8. Another advantage of these pliers is that their tip is equipped with special attachments, allowing for delicate work with fragile elements.

What are they for?

The main function of pliers is to grip, hold, and manipulate different materials. As a result, this tool has the ability to:

• secure various parts such as washers, electrical wires, and sheets of metal;
• shape and bend different objects like wire.

This tool is available in different sizes and shapes, making it suitable for performing various locksmith and electromechanical tasks. However, it is important to avoid exposing any model to high temperatures and using them as hammers. Additionally, smaller pliers should not be overextended. Proper care should be taken by regularly lubricating the joints with oil.