The Stillson wrench, also known as the pipe wrench, is a tool used for gripping and turning pipes and other cylindrical objects. The spelling of "Stillson" is pronounced /ˈstɪlsən/ using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The word is believed to have originated from the inventor of the wrench, Daniel Stillson, who patented the wrench in 1869. Despite its popularity, the correct spelling of the wrench is often debated, with some using "Stilson" or "Stilsons" instead. Regardless of the spelling, the Stillson wrench remains a useful tool in many industries.
A Stillson wrench, also known as a pipe wrench, is a versatile hand tool used by plumbers and other professionals to grip and turn pipes, fittings, and other rounded objects. It features an adjustable jaw that can be tightened or loosened to accommodate different diameters.
The design of a Stillson wrench typically consists of a long handle with serrated teeth and a lower fixed jaw. The adjustable upper jaw can be moved along the handle to grip the object tightly. By applying force to the handle, the teeth on the jaws bite into the surface of the pipe or fitting, providing a strong grip to rotate or tighten it.
These wrenches are commonly used where traditional box-end or socket wrenches are impractical to use due to the rounded shape of the object. The teeth on the jaws of the Stillson wrench prevent slipping, ensuring a secure grip while minimizing potential damage to the object being worked on.
Due to their robust construction, Stillson wrenches are typically made of durable materials such as forged steel to withstand heavy usage and resist wear and tear. They come in different sizes, ranging from small wrenches used for plumbing tasks at homes to larger ones used in industrial settings.
The Stillson wrench has become an indispensable tool in plumbing, construction, automotive, and other related fields due to its ability to provide a strong, adjustable grip on rounded objects.
The term "Stillson wrench" is derived from the inventor's name, Daniel Chapman Stillson, who patented this type of wrench in 1869.