Strap Wrench Information
Strap wrenches are useful tools that can be employed for many applications. They are used to tighten or loosen objects, mostly pipes. They provide gripping power and will not scratch or deform the object they are being used on. Strap wrenches can be used on filters, metal and plastic pipes as well as many other smooth-surfaced objects. Because they take the form of the object they are gripping, strap wrenches can also be used on surfaces with irregular shapes. Does this Spark an idea?
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Operation
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Use strap wrenches properly to be effective. The free end of a strap wrench should be wrapped around a pipe or object and threaded back through the handle. The strap is threaded through the handle until the strap has afirm grip on the workpiece. When pressure is applied in a clockwise or counterclockwise fashion, the strap will tighten or loosen on the workpiece.
Availability
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Reed Manufacturing Company offers an extensive line of strap wrenches to consumers. This company prides itself on using high-quality, strong polyester straps, which they provide durability and slip resistance. Some of their strap wrench models feature longer straps that increase leverage on objects with wide diameters.
Aside from Reed, strap wrenches are available at places like Home Depot, Lowes and most other home improvement stores. They can also be purchased at other online stores like PlumberSurplus.com and Grainger.com. -
Models
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Each different strap wrench model is ideal for certain applications. Currently, Reed offers five different types of strap wrenches including the SW12A, SW12A30, SW18A, SW18A48 and the SW24A. The SW12A is 12 inches long, weighs 1.6 lbs. and is ideal for use on pipes with a diameter of between 1/8 and 2 inches. The SW18A is 18 inches long, weighs 2.6 lbs. and is ideal for use on pipes with a diameter of between 1 and 5 inches. The SW24A is the company's largest strap wrench model. It is 24 inches long, weighs 5.1 lbs. and is capable of handling pipes up to 12 inches in diameter.
Warnings
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Strap wrenches should only be used on applications as outlined by the manufacturer. Strap wrenches should never be used beyond their capacity as doing so can damage the wrench and increase the likelihood of the strap snapping. Using strap wrenches improperly also increases the likelihood of bodily harm.
Considerations
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Most straps on strap wrenches are very durable, however, they can be prone to snapping after excessive or improper use. Most manufacturers offer replacement straps if existing straps are no longer operational.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Christian Senger
