subject: Metalworking Tools used in Homes [print this page] Home metalworkers can use a variety of tools to work on metals, either it is joining two metals parts or separating them or molding them, metalworking tools are of great help. Metalworking is often confused with mechanical work. They both are quite different from each other. Metalworking relates to the molding, shaping, cutting or fastening metal pieces while mechanical works involves making of parts perform in certain manner. Metalworking tools has a wide range and can be used in variety of tasks.
Cutting
Cutting tools have a large range. They include metal scissors (snips) to metal blades on power band saws. Besides this, hacksaws are also part of the metalworking cutting tools. Many types are metal saws are used to cut the metal. Metal cutting needs some special tricks and techniques to follow. One of the major aspects of metal cutting is to cut the metal in small sections. Metal saws contain a large number of small teeth ranging form 100 and more teeth per inch (tpi).
Heat
Heat is another metalworking tool. It is used to melt or soften the metal to mould it into different shapes. Heat is also helpful to separate different parts of the metal. Heat tools involve propane torches and acetylene torches. Propane or blue flame torches have the tendency to quickly raise the metal temperature up to 1200 degrees Fahrenheit. Heating is used to either separate or join metal parts. The fusion of metal parts made after heating is solidly weld it.
Pliers
Pliers are also important when it comes to hold the metal with a strong grip. They are also useful when you want to heat any metal. They don't transmit heat further to your hands. Pliers come in different sizes and types according to different uses. Vice grips are one of them. They are an adjustable pliers that serves the multiple purposes. It not only holds the metal but clamp different parts of the metal intact.
Files
Files are another metalworking tool. Files works similar to saws but have variable fineness level. Files are used to smooth the edges and also trim the metal quite easily with almost perfect stipulations. Files are available in different types depending upon the low to high fineness level as we have different grit sandpapers.
Measuring tools
Measuring tools are an important tool for metalworking. Without measuring tools you cannot measure the lengths and widths accurately for molding metal. There are T-squares and tape rulers provide exact measurements. Also calipers are available which can give you the measurement of metal thickness within 1/10,000ths of an inch.
Hammers
Hammers are useful metal working tool. It is commonly used in homes as well. Hammers are available in so many varieties designed to form particular functions. Many types of hammers and mallets are used to mold and bend metal to give them shape. Ball peen hammers with rounded face are suitable for smoothly working metal and many rubber mallets are there to shape and bend metals without evening scratching the surfaces of the metal.
