A spanner (commonly called a wrench in the U.S.) is a hand tool used to provide grip and mechanical advantage in applying torque to turn objects—such as nuts, bolts, or pipes—or to keep them from turning.
Types of Spanners/Wrenches
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Open-End Spanner – Has U-shaped openings at both ends, usually of different sizes.
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Ring Spanner (Box-End Wrench) – Has a closed loop for better grip on nuts/bolts.
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Combination Spanner – One open end and one ring end (same size).
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Adjustable Spanner (Crescent Wrench) – Adjustable jaw for different sizes.
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Socket Spanner (Socket Wrench) – Uses detachable sockets with a ratchet handle.
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Allen Key (Hex Key) – L-shaped tool for hexagonal socket screws.
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Torque Wrench – Measures applied torque for precision tightening.
Spanner Sizes
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Measured in inches (imperial) or millimeters (metric).
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Example: A 10mm spanner fits a 10mm bolt head, while a 1/2″ spanner fits a ½-inch nut.
Key Uses
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Automotive repairs
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Plumbing
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Machinery maintenance
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Construction
To convert a spanner size from inches to millimeters (mm), you can use the following formula:
Millimeters (mm) = Inches × 25.4
Common Spanner Size Conversions:
Example Calculation:
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3/8 inch to mm:
(commonly rounded to 9.53 mm).
This conversion is useful for identifying metric equivalents of imperial wrench sizes. Let me know if you need a specific size converted!
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