Socket heads appeared more than two centuries ago - at the turn of the XVIII-XIX centuries - since people learned how to build complex machines and mechanisms (steamers, steam locomotives, machine tools, etc.), which included nuts and bolts, which could only be unscrewed from the end. Since then, a lot of time has passed, both the mechanisms themselves and the tools for their maintenance have been improved, but the original design and principle of operation of the socket heads remained practically unchanged.
It’s hard to imagine the life of a modern car enthusiast, and even more so of car service workers or a tire workshop — without this universal tool. A set of socket heads along with a jack and a spare wheel is a must for any motorist. Using a movable handle, you can unscrew the screws, nuts and other fasteners in any hard-to-reach places and at any angle where the open-end wrench or ring spanner cannot handle .
Types of Sockets
Socket heads are classified by the following main parameters:
- In shape. Hexagonal and twelve-sided are usually used. As the name implies, hexagonal heads are used to unscrew hexagonal, and twelve-headed - twelve-sided profiles. In addition to conventional hexagonal socket heads, there are heads with a dynamic profile, which provide not only coverage of the angles of the hexagon, but also an auxiliary side contact. Due to the maximum load distribution, any damage to both the unscrewed part and the tool itself is eliminated.
- By lenght. Elongated end heads are used when working with complex elongation or with fasteners located in the recess.
- By appointment. General and special. Special ones include, for example, candle heads, which differ from ordinary ones in that they have a special device (ball, magnet, rubber) for fixing the candle.
- By the size of the connecting squares. The size of the connecting square depends on the size of the end head itself. Usually from 1/4 inch (for heads from 4 to 14 mm) to 1 inch (for heads from 38-80 mm)
- According to the measurement system. Depending on the measurement system, the sizes of the socket heads can be indicated in millimeters or inches. Socket heads designed for the metric measurement system typically have sizes from 4 to 80 mm, and for the inch - from 5/32 to 3-1 / 8 inches.
What to look for when buying a socket
To purchase sets of socket heads, of course, is better in stores specializing in the sale of tools. It is advisable to buy a tool from well-known manufacturers (Phillips, Pozi-Drive, Topx, Star, etc.).
Before choosing a set of socket heads, it is necessary to carefully examine their appearance. The socket head must have a dense, even coating over the entire surface, which should not peel off.
Tools can be matte or polished. There is no fundamental difference between them, but the first ones slip less in the hands, although they get dirty more during work.
In addition, it should be borne in mind that the socket heads are designed for manual twisting and twisting using wrenches. The latter are made of high alloy hardened steel. Such heads are harder, but at the same time more fragile. Therefore, choosing a set of heads, it should be foreseen with which tool they will be used.