Spanner

Introduction

Spanner is a hand tool that is used to turn nut or bolt by applying torque. Spanner is a specialized term that specifically refers to the wrench having series of tabs arranged around a circumference. A spanner has two parts, first one is the jaw which is used to hold or grip the nut or bolt and second one is the handle which helps ti turn it either side. Spanners are usually double ended but single ended jaws are also available. In double ended spanners the jaw on one side differ in dimension from the jaw on another side to offer flexibility in its usage.

Types of Spanners

Open Ended Spanner :The open ended spanner has U-shaped jaws to grip two opposite sides of the nut or bolt. The jaws are inclined at an angle of 15 degree to the handle to support greater flexibility in movement where adequate space is not available for turning the nut.

Ring or Box End Spanner: The box end spanners are also usually double ended whose ends are in the shape of a ring with 6 or 12 tabs to grip hexagonal nuts or bolts. Eight points spanners are also available to turn square-shaped nuts.

Combination Spanner : In combination spanner one end is in ring shape while other end has U shape to provide the advantages of both open ended and ring spanner. Both ends are usually of same dimensions.

Adjustable Spanner: Also known as shifting spanner, it has adjustable jaw which can be fitted well around nuts or bolts of different sizes. These are usually single ended.

Socket Spanners :Socket spanners have cylindrical end that grips single end of the nut and is turned with the help of a driving tool.

Apart from these commonly used spanners there lies a large range of spanners for specialized usage which includes chain spanner, spoke spanner, crank spanner, drum spanner, plumber spanner, sink spanner, fire hydrant spanner, slogging spanner etc.