What is the difference between pliers and pliers. Pliers and pliers: the difference (photo) The substance of which the pliers are composed

05.11.2019

In every house, regardless of its inhabitants, there is a certain set of tools that will always come in handy. One of these tools are pliers or pliers. Despite their superficial similarities, the two instruments have some differences. Both belong to a large group of pliers.

A story of this kind began long before our era: suffice it to recall the ancient Greek blacksmith god Hephaestus, who was depicted with blacksmith tongs and a hammer for forging.

This group includes pliers, pliers, pliers, wire cutters, round nose pliers. Each of the tools has its own production standards and is needed for different jobs.

In contact with

Classmates

What are pliers

Their name quite eloquently shows the peculiarity of the tool: it consists of flat jaws, which are notched, handles and a special connection. Thanks to the notches, the pliers easily hold parts of any shape, as well as bend wire, cable strands or metal sheets.

Also, the tool is often used instead of a screwdriver when it is necessary to unscrew or tighten the nut. Pliers can only be used as a bending tool in some cases, since the width of the lips does not exceed 20 cm.

There are several types of pliers, differing in the types of lips.

The latter are:

Elongated narrow: they are suitable for working with small objects or in hard-to-reach places. They have low compression force.
Narrow curved: mainly used in electronics for access to the most "impregnable" places, for example, under the board.
"Duckbill": These are pliers with strongly elongated jaws. By functional features similar to tweezers, but allow you to squeeze the part more strongly.

For work with fragile materials, special nozzles with surface protection or without notches are used. For work with electricity, pliers with insulation on the handles are used: they must indicate the maximum current value. Most often, such tools can withstand up to 1000 V.

Note: using ordinary pliers when working with electricity is prohibited, since the handles are not protected.

What are pliers

They are often referred to as the "little brother" or even multifunctional model of pliers, but this statement can be argued. The name comes from the French "pince" and "tige" - "clamp" and "rod".

Unlike pliers, the jaws of pliers have both a flat part and a small notch, which allows you to grip a workpiece with an excessively smooth surface more firmly. This makes the tool more popular and versatile. Some models have two recesses at once, for working with different sizes.

The tool is used for:

clamping parts in the process of working with them;
taking hot metals;
crimping connectors in the absence of special tools.

Consider: pliers can also be used to tighten nuts, but this should be done only in extreme cases, as you can break the edges.

All varieties have their own characteristics, which are easy to see in the photo:

What are the differences

Despite the fact that the tools look similar, pliers and pliers have a number of important differences that can be seen from the descriptions:

The main difference lies in the surface of the jaws: for pliers it is straight, for pliers it has recesses for some details;
The specialization of pliers is narrower: they are designed only to hold the part, all other functions (biting, tightening bolts) are not their “native” ones, which can lead to problems. Pliers are more functional: they can cut wire and metal, hold parts more firmly;
For the manufacture of pliers, stronger steel is used, since the tool is designed for a greater compressive force;
Pliers have a larger gripping range due to the presence of a movable connecting hinge. This helps expand the use of the tool;
Often pliers are more expensive, as they are more functional.

When choosing tools, the main thing is not how much they cost, but their quality and durability. First you need to decide on the functionality: if pliers or pliers are used in working with electricity, they must be protected. If you plan to take the tools with you and use them for small household chores, you should choose combined pliers - this will save space and money.

Note: you should not save on the purchase: it is better to choose high-quality models that will last for several years than to change them regularly.

To do right choice, you should pay attention to the following:

the sponges must be intact, fit snugly against each other, not hang out, have no gaps or cracks;
the handle should lie well in the hand, not slip and be comfortable;
the connecting hinge should be strong, well tightened, but not tight, with a smooth, pleasant ride.

When choosing a tool, it is desirable to be able to try it out, hold it and adapt.

Many people think that pliers and pliers are one and the same, but they are not, although in some situations they can replace each other. Both tools, although they perform similar functions, have a number of differences that are worth remembering. When choosing a model, it is important to clearly understand their purpose in order not to buy a useless thing; it is also recommended to consider the models in the pictures in advance.

Watch the video in which the specialist explains in detail how pliers differ from pliers:

In contact with

See inaccuracies, incomplete or incorrect information? Do you know how to make an article better?

Would you like to suggest photos for publication on a topic?

Please help us make the site better! Leave a message and your contacts in the comments - we will contact you and together we will make the publication better!

Perhaps it is impossible to imagine a more popular hand tool in everyday life and professional activities than pliers and pliers. The difference between them is quite significant. And although some people confuse these two types of instruments because of their appearance, however, the quality and even the standards of workmanship in both cases are not the same. The difference between pliers and pliers should be considered by all craftsmen when choosing them. There is a specific type of tool for everyone.

General concept of a pliers tool

To understand the differences between pliers and pliers, you should delve into their device. Both of these varieties belong to the class of pliers. This type of improvised means was used by ancient masters.

This class of tool includes various pliers, round-nose pliers, wire cutters, pliers, pincers. Each of these species has its own purpose. Pliers and pliers, the difference (photo below) between which every master must understand, have their own subspecies.

Basically, they differ in the size of the sponges, which makes it possible to use such improvised tools for work of any complexity. Each type of pliers is designed to perform certain type operations.

For electrical work, it is necessary to choose a special type of equipment. Its handles are insulated with a special material, which most often withstands a voltage of 1 kV. Plumbers and locksmiths can choose simple varieties of pliers and pliers.

Characteristics of pliers

The difference between pliers and pliers (the photo is presented to your attention below) is easier to understand by considering the characteristics of each of these improvised tools.

Special attention deserves their appearance and application in the work of masters. The length of the pliers is in the range from 12.5 to 20 cm.

Types of pliers

Considering such varieties of pliers as pliers and pliers, it will not be difficult to understand how they differ. In order not to confuse these two hand tools, their subspecies should be described. Pliers include several types of devices. They differ in working surface.

If the jaws are elongated, this will allow you to work in hard-to-reach places, to reach the necessary wires or parts. If they are not only elongated, but also curved, this is most likely a tool for electricians. Such devices are used in work when it is extremely difficult to reach the object. The bend radius can be 40 or 60 degrees.

Platypuses are similar to tweezers, only they have more compressive strength. Pliers and pliers, the difference between which in some respect affects the work of the master, may have different nozzles. This will allow you to skillfully handle fragile materials.

Characteristics of pliers

Pliers and pliers are the same type of tool and can be small, medium or large. Their scope is similar. They are used in plumbing, assembly, electrical, plumbing work etc.

The surface of the jaws of the pliers has a notch. This allows you to hold round smooth parts. Most often, the surface in them is combined. There is a flat area, as well as recesses of different diameters.

Pliers and pliers, the difference between which lies not only in the shape of the surface of the jaws, also differ in capabilities. This increases the range of operations performed by the wizard.

Pliers allow you to adjust the compression force, as well as the distance between the surfaces of the jaws. Therefore, this tool is suitable for parts of various diameters.

Additional features of pliers

Pliers and pliers, the difference between which lies in functionality, should be selected in accordance with the type of activity of the master. The electrician and plumber must choose the appropriate type hand tool.

Based on the needs of a specialist who uses pliers, the latter may have various additional features. Many manufacturers supply their products with side cutters. This device allows you to strip the insulation from the cable, cut the wire.

Sometimes on front side pliers have a special edge that allows you to cut very strong wire.

In other cases, the working area of the pliers extends beyond the swivel. On the handles of such models there are serifs that allow you to hold the workpiece not only with sponges. Not every master is comfortable with this, but it depends on personal preferences.

Characteristic differences

Pliers and pliers have a lot of similarities. What is the difference between these two similar tools should be considered in more detail.

The very first thing that can be noted when studying these products is the difference in the shape of the sponges. Their inner surface at the pliers has recesses to hold round parts. Pliers also have a flat surface with notches for better grip on the surface of the part.

The pliers have the same width of the jaws along the entire length. Pliers can have different lengths and widths. The choice depends on the purpose of the tool.

Main differences

Pliers and pliers small, medium or large have three main differences.

Sponge surface shape. For pliers, it is even, and for pliers - with a notch. In the second case, the tool is designed for stronger types of steels during operation.
Possibility of adjustment. It is possible to select the required gap of the working surface and the compression force only in the case of pliers. Therefore, this feature should be taken into account when choosing improvised means.
Versatility and additional functions (side cutter, special edges) are inherent only to pliers. However, in case of fulfillment simple jobs for ease of control, you must opt for ordinary pliers.

How to choose a tool

Pliers and pliers, the difference between which determines the scope of their application, it is better to choose professional ones. These are the most durable products that will serve their owner for many years. Cheap models sometimes quickly lose their functionality or even fail. Therefore, when choosing a tool, it is better not to save.

A quality product can be identified by looking at the hinge section. There should be no backlashes, and the course of the handles must be smooth. When connecting the jaws, there should be no gaps, distortions. In a quality tool, they close evenly.

It is extremely important, especially for electrical work, that the handles sit tightly on the base and do not fidget. This will allow you to work with improvised means safely, without fear of electric shock.

Having become acquainted with distinctive features such products as pliers and pliers, any master will understand their difference from each other. In accordance with the required type of work, hand tools are also selected. It differs in size, shape, additional features and functionality. Each specialist must take into account the features of a hand tool and purchase high-quality copies. This will guarantee a long service life of pliers and pliers of any configuration.

Pliers, pliers, pliers, wire cutters are representatives of a very diverse group of tools called pliers. Their main difference is in the shape of the working surface, determined by their purpose. These tools are actively used in various fields, they are used by dentists, blacksmiths, and railway workers. In particular, pincers are one of the most ancient tools; they are an integral attribute (along with the hammer) of the Greek god of fire - Hephaestus. Let's start with ticks.

Ticks

Usually this is a tool with relatively long handles and short jaws, which close over a short distance with flat or pointed surfaces. The pliers are intended primarily for gripping parts. Blacksmith tongs hold red-hot metal, they have long handles and various shapes of sponges.

Railroad workers have tongs for carrying railway sleepers, as well as for carrying rails.

Tongs for carrying sleepers and rail (ROBEL)

Carpentry (carpentry) tongs pull out nails.

Joiner's (carpenter's) tongs (GEDORE)

Plumbing tongs (pipe) usually have a serrated recess for gripping pipes, inclined jaws and an adjustable hinge mechanism for clamping pipes of different diameters.

Sanitary pliers (STAYER)

The pliers also include a number of electrical installation tools: these are crimp pliers for terminals, pliers for stripping wires, pliers for connectors, pliers for cable glands, current pliers, insulating pliers for replacing fuses, etc.

In general, almost any pliers can be called pincers, for example, pliers, in a simplified way, these are pincers with flat jaws.

Pliers are pliers that have a flat working surface, often with a fine notch. They are used to capture relatively small parts and perform various manipulations with them (bending, biting), often using two tools at once. For different jobs, the shape of the sponges themselves may be different. There are pliers with elongated jaws (long nose pliers, platypuses) and pliers with curved jaws, used when working with parts that are in hard to reach places; pliers with narrow jaws (narrow-nose pliers) used for fine work; pliers with short jaws, providing a large gripping force at the ends of the jaws. Some pliers have pads on the working surface to prevent damage to parts. Often pliers have cutting edges for cutting wire.

Combination pliers, sometimes called pliers, are a tool that includes pliers, has cutting edges for cutting wire and nails, a notch with teeth for gripping pipes, nuts and various cylindrical parts. This is a multifunctional tool, on the one hand, able to help in various situations, on the other hand, special tools cope with specific tasks better. Therefore, combination pliers are a tool for a household tool kit, and not for a professional one.

Difference between round nose pliers and pliers round section jaws tapering towards the end (cone-shaped jaws). Round nose pliers are designed for curly bending of wire, the conical shape of the jaws makes it possible to bend with different radii, they are an important tool for jewelers. Round-nose pliers can have sponges of different sizes, both in length and thickness, and there are models that have sponges of different shapes in one tool, there are round-nose pliers with curved jaws. There are models with notches on the lips and without notches. Just like pliers, round nose pliers can have cutting edges for cutting wire.

pliers

Based on the French origin of the name of this tool - pinces-a-tige, pince - clamp and tige - rod, then pliers are a tool for gripping pipes and other cylindrical parts. That is, the main thing in pliers, which determines their name, is a notch with teeth.

Antique pliers with two notched notches,
for large and small diameters

Modern pliers, instead of several notches, have an adjustable hinge for pipes of different sizes.

Adjustable joint pliers (Task Force)

Apparently, pliers differ from plumbing pliers in a smaller size, or you can safely put an equal sign between them.

What many are accustomed to calling pliers, according to GOST 5547-93, are combined pliers. And it turns out that on the one hand, this tool can be defined as pliers with pliers, and on the other hand, pliers with pliers.

wire cutters

Nippers are pliers with a cutting working surface used for cutting wires, nails, fittings. Depending on the position of the cutting edges on the jaws, five main types of wire cutters are distinguished: side cutters (side cutters, diagonal cutters), end cutters (transverse cutters), cable cutters, stripping cutters (they are stripping pliers, see above) and end cutters. More often use side cutters, or side cutters.

When buying wire cutters, pay attention to what kind of material they are intended for cutting, as copper wire cutters may not be able to cope with nails, and the cutting edges will be damaged.

Wire cutters for cutting cables, cables, fittings, bolts have a particularly strong design, increased hardness of the cutting edges, often several hinged nodes to provide increased compressive strength.

When using the content of this site, you need to put active links to this site, visible to users and search robots.

Most in demand in household tools are pliers. Although professional craftsmen also cannot do without this universal tool. Mechanics, locksmiths, electricians and other workers cannot do without them. With a large assortment of tools in the distribution network, there is probably no more necessary and universal thing.

Consider existing species pliers, their design features and differences from other similar tools, how to use them correctly, and how to make the right choice when purchasing.

Design features

Pliers refer to a pliers tool used for various electrical installation, plumbing and other work. Pliers can capture parts of various shapes, as well as thin pipes.

This product combines the design of two tools: wire cutters and pliers. This versatile device is very convenient when doing small household work by a home master. Pliers usually cut wires only from soft metal, since the cutting edges are deformed from hard material and quickly become unusable.

A special notch is applied to the jaws of the tool, the shape and size of which determines the reliability of holding the captured part. The notch also happens on the other side of the hinge axis, which is closer to the handles. This makes it possible to capture the part with any side of the pliers to choose from. The geometric shape of such a tool in different versions is almost the same, except for the dimensions. The longer the product, the greater the force on the jaws can be created. All other parameters and dimensions have minor differences.

Sharpening of the cutting parts plays a big role. When improving tools, manufacturers create various new qualities: they sharpen sharp edges at special angles, harden them in a special way, etc.

The assembly of a product largely determines its quality. Ideally, there should be no gaps and backlashes in the swivel joint, and the handles of the pliers should be moved apart with the fingers of one hand without much effort. A slight gap between the jaws in their compressed state is allowed (a few tenths of a millimeter).

Good quality pledge

In order to indirectly evaluate this tool for quality, it is enough to look at the end of the compressed jaws. If you see two equal rectangles of the correct shape, then most likely you are dealing with a quality tool. In the manufacture of this feature, almost no attention is paid, and the correctness of the forms of the sponges indicates the accuracy of the assembly. Well-known manufacturers of quality tools create original design hinge to prolong its life.

Metal

Steel for the manufacture of pliers determines their performance. When manufactured at the factory, the composition of the material must be maintained, and the use of special technology heat treatment to give the necessary hardness and strength to the tool elements. In order for the swivel to serve for a long time, the hardness of the axis and the outer part must be equal. Cutting edges and sponges of expensive products, in addition to heat treatment, are usually additionally hardened with high-frequency currents.

Coating

Another important factor is the application of a special composition to the surface of the tool to prevent corrosion. Otherwise, after moisture gets on the instrument, they will quickly rust and become unusable. A simple coating is surface burnishing, which consists in placing the part in hot oil vapor, followed by coating with a protective varnish.

This treatment is also called oxidation. This is not enough quality protection when working with high humidity Therefore, this tool is intended for indoor use only. In order to be able to work without problems outdoors, a better finish, such as chrome plating, is needed. It imparts a beautiful steely sheen, especially if the finish is carefully polished.

Zinc coated pliers are quite rare. This coating is practically not inferior to the previous type, and in terms of resistance to mechanical shocks, it even surpasses it. However, according to appearance zinc coating is clearly inferior.

handles

To ensure the convenience of working with pliers, the handles of the tool are enclosed in plastic. There are several types of handle insulation:

Ordinary. They are made only of plastic that does not contain substances harmful to humans. They have a low cost.
Ergonomic equipped with rubber pads. Rubber elements increase the convenience of work, however, with poor-quality rubber during contact with the palm, a person may experience an allergy.
Electrical insulating, made of more rigid plastic for high-quality electrical insulation, ensuring the safety of the worker when working up to 1000 V.

An important factor is the reliable fixation of the overlays. On low-quality Chinese pliers, plastic handles can turn and slide off the tool, which greatly complicates their use. A simple way to attach plastic handles is to glue them. A more modern fixation method is to fit the handles “hot”, that is, they are put on in a hot state, when they cool, they shrink, and they are securely fixed on the instrument. In rare cases, handles are fastened with metal pins.

Kinds

There are several types of pliers, each designed to perform certain types of work.

Dielectric pliers

In terms of functionality and appearance, such a tool is similar to conventional combined pliers, but has special insulating handles for performing electrical work on connecting live electrical equipment, replacing metering devices (with permission and certain skills).

Comfortable, soft grip handles allow you to safely and comfortably perform all necessary work. The plastic of the handles can be reinforced with fiberglass for increased strength. Insulation material prevents human injury electric shock. The surface of the handles is ribbed, which prevents the hands from slipping during operation. The jaws of the tool have special teeth to ensure a secure grip. Weight and dimensions tools are small, working with it for a long time does not create much fatigue.

grommet

This is a common tool for the home craftsman. In the manufacture of curtains and curtains, a plastic or metal ring with a diameter of up to 7 mm, which is called an eyelet, is often used. Thanks to specially designed pliers for eyelets, their installation is very fast. This procedure is greatly simplified: it is enough to apply a few forces on the handles, and the rings are completely fixed on the material.

Combined pliers

Such pliers can perform several functions of various plumbing fixtures and tools: side cutters, wire cutters, pliers, etc. They, like other models, are made of durable carbon steel, sharp edges are hardened to increase their service life. Metal elements are coated with a special coating and polished.

There are special versions of combined pliers that can even grip pipes, as they have the ability to adjust the size of the opening of the jaws. They are also called pipe or adjustable. They are also used to grip various large parts, thick cables, as a wrench.

Pliers

This is one of the varieties of pliers with flat jaws.

By the name of this tool, the shape of their sponges becomes clear. They are notched, there are handles and a swivel. Pliers are a handy tool for various electrical and plumbing work. Their flat jaws make it easy to hold parts of various shapes. Pliers usually bend the cores of wires, cables, as well as metal and steel wire.

The dimensions of the parts that can be clamped with pliers are determined by the dimensions of the tool itself (usually no more than 200 mm). Quite often, such a tool is used instead of a wrench, since flat jaws repeat the edges of the key. Of course, pliers cannot completely replace wrench, but in extreme cases, when there is no necessary tool they are quite justified.

There are some types of pliers that differ in the type of working sponges:

Narrow long lips for work in hard-to-reach places.

curved jaws, which also serve for hard-to-reach places, or during the installation of radio-electronic equipment.

round nose pliers are mainly used for electrical work.

"Platypuses". In fact, they are an analogue of tweezers, characterized by greater compressive strength.

With various attachments for the convenience of working with delicate and fragile materials.

To use pliers for electrical installation energized, there are special insulated models. The plastic handles are marked highest value voltage for which the insulation is designed. Most often, this value does not exceed 1000 volts. If this parameter is not specified, then the use of such a tool for working under voltage is strictly prohibited. Most likely, these are ordinary locksmith pliers, not designed to protect a person from electric shock.

Many people are mistaken in believing that pliers and pliers are one and the same. However, these tools have several differences:

The shape of the surface of the jaws of the pliers is flat and does not have a notch.
Compression force. By design, pliers are designed for high compressive force. Accordingly, steel for them is used more durable.
The ability to adjust the size of the opening of the jaws is available only for pliers (by moving the hinge).
Functionality. Pliers are less functional as they don't have side cutting edges.

If you have enough money, it is better to buy professional model tool, as it is much better and more reliable in operation. If your purchase does not turn out to be a fake, then such a tool will last almost a lifetime.
The play in the hinge indicates the low quality of the product, as well as biting and jamming when the jaws are moved apart. It is better to refuse such a tool.
It is not allowed to move plastic handles on the tool, especially if these are dielectric pliers.
Gaps in closed jaws, and their uneven fit also indicate poor product quality.

To help modern craftsmen, many various instrument, both electrical and mechanical, manual. The undoubted leader in the latest classification is the hammer, which everyone knows, and everyone, at least once in their life, held in their hands. This percussion instrument is slightly inferior to the pliers, that is, its popular representatives are pliers and pliers. These master's assistants have also been in the hands of many. They are used in repair work for gripping, supporting, twisting parts and consumables.

Pliers or pliers - what to choose for work

Almost every home has a toolbox, even if the owner rarely repairs anything himself. There will still be a mandatory set, consisting of:

hammer;
screwdrivers;
pliers or pliers.

And if the first two tools are familiar to everyone and the scope of their application is clear, then with the last one everything is not so simple, since it is rare where both tools are available at once. It will seem to a simple layman at first glance that pliers and pliers are no different. For a professional, this is not the case. A craftsman will immediately name the main differences between pliers and pliers.

Upon a detailed examination of one and the second instruments, the external difference is obvious. They have the same only the structure of the handles, and the working part of the pliers and pliers, which is called the lips, is completely different and depends on the purpose.

When pliers are required

By the name, you can guess that the working part of the pliers is flat, there are only a few notches. The tool consists of lips, handles and a swivel joint. For ease of use, some manufacturers produce pliers with a collapsible hinge. It can be disassembled for lubrication or troubleshooting if necessary. The notches applied to the lips perform the main working functions: holding and gripping. This helps the masters to cope:

with twisting of wires and sheets of metal;
with the unwinding of screws, bolts and nuts;
with bending wire and other consumables.

With the help of pliers, various plumbing and installation work with pieces of various sizes. For the convenience of using the tool, the industry makes several modifications:

With elongated narrow jaws, making it possible to work in places with limited access.
With angled jaws to help you get to the right part in electronics or other hard-to-reach mechanisms.
With elongated long jaws designed for a strong grip on components and material.
With a set of nozzles that allow you to perform repair operations on delicate and fragile parts. Pliers are also divided by size (maximum part diameter - 200 mm) and by the presence of special insulation on the handles. When buying, you should pay special attention to the last factor. If special insulation is present and the corresponding markings (1000 V) are applied to the handles, then with such pliers you can perform various electrical installation and electrical repairs. In the absence of an insulating layer and markings, the tool is suitable only for plumbing, and it is already life-threatening to approach electricity with it.

The difference between pliers and pliers is obvious when listing working functions. The range of application of the second tool is much wider than that of the first. Pliers are often called the older or younger brother of pliers, or, with humor, tuned pliers. The shape of the notched lips and the adjustable swivel increase the possibilities of the tool.

With the help of pliers you can:

capture and hold parts of different volumes by adjusting the hinge;
strip and cut insulated wires;
work with round parts.

Depending on the presence or absence of special recesses, cutters and notches, several tool models are produced:

Combined, perfectly suitable in everyday life for assembly and plumbing work.
Combined adjustable expand the range of applications by the possibility of working with pipes and rounded objects of different diameters.
Dielectric possess special insulation on handles and markings. They are used for work with electrical equipment and wires.
Pliers for eyelets are convenient for installing rivets, rings and various holders.

The choice of pliers model depends on what the tool will be used for. For the home, the first two are perfect.

What to buy: pliers or pliers?

Pliers and pliers are a bit similar both in appearance and in application. The choice of one of these two tools depends on the future use. After all, the difference between pliers and pliers is:

different forms of working surfaces;
multifunctional use of pliers due to additional recesses, notches and cutting edges;
the presence of an adjustable swivel for pliers and a fixed one for pliers.

As the experts say, perfect option is the purchase of both instruments, and even in a professional version, if finances allow. If money is not very good, then for infrequent home use you can opt for pliers. Just do not forget when buying them, as in the case of purchasing pliers, some rules:

The tool should be comfortable for the hand.
There must be no play in the swivel joint.
Gaps between closed parts are not allowed.
The attachment of the handles must be reliable - without slipping and twisting.
The tool should be light, so that when used, the hands do not get tired from heaviness, but not due to the unsuitable quality of the material.
Don't go for cheapness quality tool not worth three kopecks, and very rarely falls into the category of promotional goods.