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Pipe wrench
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The pipe wrench, or Stillson® wrench is an adjustable wrench used for turning soft iron pipes and fittings with a rounded surface. The design of the adjustable jaw allows it to rock in the frame, such that any forward pressure on the handle tends to pull the jaws tighter together. Teeth angled in the direction of turn dig into the soft pipe. They are not for use on hard hex nuts. Pipe wrenches are usually sold in the following sizes (in inches): 10, 14, 18, 24, 36, and 48. They are usually made of either steel or aluminium. Teeth, and jaw kits (which also contain adjustment rings and springs) can be bought to repair broken wrenches, as this is cheaper than buying a new wrench.
These wrenches are sometimes colloquially known as monkey wrenches but this is not technically correct, as the term refers to a specific type of wrench not common anymore, that was unusable on pipe.
The U.S. Patent Office issued U.S. Patent 95744 to Daniel C. Stillson on 12 October 1869.
Many companies now manufacture pipe wrenches, but the most prominent professional-grade manufacturer (and the most common in the North American plumbing trade) is RIDGID.
In the UK these wrenches are often described by their size i.e. 18" wrenches are known as "18's", or by the general name of "Stillies". The most prominent professional-grade manufacturer in the UK is RECORD.
See also plumber wrench.
Categories: Wrenches | Piping | Plumbing