Mechanism Description: Adjustable Spanner
By
Khalid Syed: 27174667
A report submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements of
ENCS 282
Concordia University
May 16, 2024
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INTRODUCTION
1.1
Definition
An adjustable spanner is a type of wrench that has an adjustable jaw [1]. It is a tool that is commonly used
in the construction industry but also found in the DIY and homeowner space. Its function is the same as
any other type of wrench, to fasten nuts and bolts. Unlike all other wrenches, the adjustable spanner can
fit most sizes of fasteners eliminating the need to carry a full set of wrenches [1].
1.2
Overall Function
The overall function as previously stated is to tighten or loosen a nut or a bolt. The smaller jaw can be
moved frontwards or backwards to manually adjust the width to grip onto a variety of fastener sizes [2].
Wrenches in general can be used individually or in conjunction with a screwdriver to secure screws and
nuts together. Generally, adjustable spanners are heftier and bulkier than their nonadjustable counterparts
meaning they work less well in confined situations [2]. Despite this trade off, they are perfect for
providing the user with a firm grip on a fastener head while applying torque using the handle.
1.3
Overall Appearance
The appearance of the adjustable spanner tool comes in a variety of sizes and styles. The most common
type of spanner is made from a chrome-plated steel alloy and has a U-shaped design with a thin long
handle [3]. Typically silver in colour, the wrench commonly has a rough surface texture for better grip
and torque application. On top of having a more textured surface, the spanner tool has a matt or dull look
to it as opposed to shiny.
1.4
Parts
The adjustable spanner tool has five parts: The fixed jaw, the moveable jaw, the graduated scale, the
thumb screw, and the handle [1].
Figure 1: Image of the parts comprising an Adjustable Spanner [1]
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PARTS DESCRIPTION
2.1
Definition
The main components of an adjustable spanner are the fixed jaw, the moveable jaw, the graduated scale,
the thumb screw, and the handle. All five of these parts fit together to produce an efficient tightening and
loosening tool. The manufacturing of this tool is done through rod cutting for raw materials, forging and
heat treating and finally machining [4]. Depending on the manufacturer, polishing, electroplating and
laser marking will be done as well to enhance the finished product [4].
2.2
Function
The thumb screw when rotated moves the moveable jaw back and forth to adjust to the nut or bolt
diameter in question. Once the necessary width is achieved between the fixed and moveable jaw, the
thumb screw is tightened further to secure the spanner on the fastener head. Once achieved, the tool is
then rotated clockwise or counterclockwise using the handle. The graduated scale can also be used to
measure the sizes of fastener heads while tightening or loosening.
2.3
Appearance
The adjustable spanner tool is most commonly made with a chrome plated steel alloy, forged, hardened,
and tempered to increase hardness and durability. With its silver colour, long and thin handle and Ushaped head, the spanner tool is precise and sturdy. An ergonomic handle and rough texture increases
comfort and grip when used. The fixed jaw is connected to the handle while the thumb screw meshes with
the moveable jaw to increase and decrease the U-shaped width.
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3.1
CONCLUSION
Summary of Mechanism
The adjustable spanner is a tool that is silver in colour and is manufactured using a chrome plated steel
alloy metal which is forged, hardened, and tempered. The tool consists of five main parts which are the
fixed and moveable jaws that comprise the U-shaped head. The graduated scale and thumb screw which
are also located on the head of the tool are used to measure width and move the moveable jaw
respectively. The fifth and last part is the handle which is designed with an ergonomic shape along with a
rough surface texture and matt or dull finish to provide best comfort and ease of handling.
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REFERENCES
[1]
“Toolstop”. Accessed: May 15, 2024. [Online]. Available:
https://www.toolstop.co.uk/blog/knowledge-base/everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-adjustablespanner
[2]
“ie.rs-online”. Accessed: May 15, 2024. [Online]. Available:
https://ie.rs-online.com/web/generalDisplay.html?id=ideas-and-advice/adjustable-spannerguide#:~:text=It's%20function%20is%20much%20the,offer%20a%20flexible%2C%20moveable%20jaw.
[3]
“homedepot”. Accessed: May 15, 2024. [Online]. Available:
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https://www.homedepot.com/c/ab/types-of-wrenches/9ba683603be9fa5395fab90751e6ea9
[4]
“handtoolsmachine”. Accessed: May 15, 2024. [Online]. Available:
https://handtoolsmachine.com/adjustable-wrench-manufacturingprocess/#:~:text=Adjustable%20Wrench%20Manufacturing%20Process%20Summary&text=The%20pro
cess%20begins%20with%20rod,%2C%20and%20slotting)%20maintain%20accuracy.