What is a slotted screwdriver
A screwdriver is an indispensable tool for repairs or construction. You can find it in any household. Modern industry offers a variety of device models. They can have different shapes and sizes. But the most popular are flat and slotted options.
An inexperienced master may get confused in the presented models. Therefore, it is important to know about the features of a slotted screwdriver and what purposes it is used for.
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What is a slotted screwdriver
A slotted screwdriver is a metalworking tool designed for fixing or dismantling threaded hardware. These include a variety of screws, screws or self-tapping screws.
The tip of the tool has a special shape in the form of small protrusions. They are necessary for securely fixing the screwdriver in the head.
The tip can have different configurations, which allows you to choose the most suitable tool.
Markings and dimensions of a slotted screwdriver
Branded tools have special markings printed on the end of the handle or on its flat part. For quality tools, the markings comply with generally accepted standards of the international classification of hand carpentry tools.
If a screwdriver is used at home, for example, it is used to tighten and unscrew screws or self-tapping screws, then it is marked:
- SL - this is the designation for a standard slotted flat-head screwdriver;
- PH - models with a cross tip;
- PZ - Phillips screwdrivers with notched thin rays.
The marking can also be made in the form of a circle with an image corresponding to the shape of the tip. For example, a stripe pattern is used to designate flat models; a Phillips screwdriver is indicated by a cross.
Information about the length of the rod and the size of the tip is also provided. For example, a round marking with a slot, the diameter of which is cut 1.5x7.5x135 mm, indicates that this is a flat-head screwdriver for working with fasteners with slots measuring 7.5x1.5 mm. The length of the handle is 13.5 cm.
Cross models have different markings. They are marked with the following designation: PH 2x90 mm. This means that the length of the shaft of the product is 90 mm, and 2 is the number of the diameter of the fittings head.
Table: slotted screwdriver sizes
| Screwdriver designation | Nominal diameter, mm | Square working surface, mm | Length rod mm | Handle length, mm | Handle diameter, mm | Rod diameter, mm |
| 0963 | 1.4–2.0 | 0.25 × 0.8 | 85 | 45 | 12 | 0.8 |
| 0964 | 2.5–3.0 | 0.4 × 1.6 | 1.6 | |||
| 0965 | 3.5 | 0.5 × 2.3 | 105 | 55 | 15 | 2.3 |
| 0966 | 4.0 | 0.6 × 2.8 | 155 | 80 | 18 | 2.8 |
| 0967 | 5.0 | 0.8 × 3.5 | 180 | 3.5 | ||
| 0968 | 6.0 | 1.0 × 4.5 | 215 | 90 | 22 | 4.5 |
| 0969 | 8.0 | 1.2 × 6.0 | 250 | 100 | 25 | 6.0 |
| 0971 | 10.0 | 1.6 × 8.0 | 8.0 | |||
| 0972 | 12.0–14.0 | 2.0 × 9.0 | 300 | 100 | 25 | 9.0 |
| 0973 | 16.0 | 2.5 × 11.0 | 11.0 | |||
| 0974 | 18.0–20.0 | 3.0 × 11.0 | 350 | 100 | 25 | 13.0 |
Reference. Russian manufacturers produce models that comply with the established GOST. Therefore, if necessary, you can find more detailed information about the meaning of the markings there.
Types of screwdrivers
Specialized stores offer a fairly wide range. However, only a few of them are the most popular:
- Dielectric. Necessary when working with electrical equipment. It has voltage protection and is capable of not passing current with voltages up to 1 kW. To do this, the entire surface of the screwdriver is covered with rubber or special plastic. They are mainly used by professional electricians and electricians.It allows you to carry out safe work in panels and electrical cabinets.
- Reversible. It includes a special ratcheting mechanism that produces a characteristic sound - when the rod is turned, it cracks. It can only turn in one direction. To enable reverse mode, press the corresponding lever. Allows you to install fastening hardware without removing the screwdriver from the slots.
- Hexagonal. The tool splines are hexagon shaped. It allows you to apply maximum effort when working without the screwdriver falling off. More often it is used in places where it is necessary to ensure special strength of the connection of all elements.
- "Star". Torx screwdrivers are especially popular in North America. Such fasteners are usually located on a variety of electrical devices. “Stars” are used in the same place as hexagons.
- Square. You won’t be able to find such a tool in everyday life. They are used for fixing fastening fittings in special devices. Most often, square slotted screwdrivers are used in the assembly and maintenance of military equipment.
- U-shaped. Such unusual devices are called spanners. The tip has two tips, and the screwdriver itself is used for servicing elevators.
- Triangular. Designed for professionals. It is used to work with fasteners whose slot has a triangular shape. They are used for opening and installing electrical panels in hard-to-reach places where there is no direct access to panels or other electrical equipment.
Screwdriver selection criteria
In order for the purchased tool to serve for a long time and to be comfortable to use, you need to choose the right one.
First you need to decide on the scope of work:
- If you need to install an anti-vandal system, you should use a U-shaped one.
- Dielectric is suitable for electrical installation work. You can also use a tool with an indicator or terminals.
- Ratchet screwdrivers ensure quick work completion.
- To save money, you should pay attention to screwdrivers with removable tips of various shapes.
When purchasing, pay attention to the quality of the material from which the rod and handle are made. The handle should be made of thick plastic and have rubber inserts. This will ensure comfortable use.
The right screwdriver not only speeds up the work process, but also makes it more efficient. A wide range makes it easy to choose the right one.
