Definition and History of Adjustable Spanner
– An adjustable spanner is a versatile hand tool used for gripping and turning objects.
– It is also known as a crescent wrench or an adjustable wrench.
– The adjustable spanner was invented by Johan Petter Johansson in 1892.
– It revolutionized the tool industry by allowing a single tool to fit various sizes of nuts and bolts.
– The design of the adjustable spanner has undergone improvements over the years, but the basic concept remains the same.
Types and Sizes of Adjustable Spanners
– Adjustable spanners come in various sizes, ranging from small handheld ones to larger industrial-grade versions.
– The size of an adjustable spanner refers to the maximum width of the jaws when fully opened.
– Some common sizes include 6 inches, 8 inches, and 10 inches.
– Adjustable spanners can have different types of jaws, such as straight jaws or curved jaws.
– Some adjustable spanners also have additional features, like a built-in scale for measuring the size of nuts and bolts.
Applications and Uses of Adjustable Spanners
– Adjustable spanners are widely used in mechanical and plumbing work.
– They are essential tools for tightening or loosening nuts, bolts, and other fasteners.
– Adjustable spanners are commonly used in automotive repairs and maintenance.
– They are also useful for assembling and disassembling furniture or appliances.
– In construction work, adjustable spanners are used for various tasks, such as tightening scaffolding bolts.
Advantages and Limitations of Adjustable Spanners
– One advantage of adjustable spanners is their versatility, as they can fit a wide range of nut and bolt sizes.
– Adjustable spanners are relatively easy to use, making them suitable for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.
– They are compact and portable, making them convenient to carry in toolboxes or pockets.
– However, adjustable spanners may not provide as secure a grip as fixed-size spanners for high-torque applications.
– The moving parts of adjustable spanners may wear out over time, leading to reduced accuracy and precision.
Maintenance and Safety Tips for Adjustable Spanners
– Regularly clean adjustable spanners to remove dirt, grease, and debris.
– Lubricate the moving parts with a suitable lubricant to ensure smooth operation.
– Store adjustable spanners in a dry place to prevent rust or corrosion.
– Avoid using adjustable spanners on rounded or damaged nuts and bolts, as they may slip and cause injury.
– Always use adjustable spanners within their recommended maximum capacity to prevent damage or accidents. Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adjustable_spanner
An adjustable spanner (UK and most other English-speaking countries), shifting spanner (Australia and New Zealand) or adjustable wrench (US and Canada) is any of various styles of spanner (wrench) with a movable jaw, allowing it to be used with different sizes of fastener head (nut, bolt, etc.) rather than just one fastener size, as with a conventional fixed spanner.

- The first BAHCO-improvement adjustable wrench from 1892 (Enköping Mekaniska Verkstad)
- Adjustable wrench from 1910 with an improved handle (BAHCO)
- Adjustable wrench from 1915 with a slightly rounder handle (BAHCO)
- Adjustable wrench from 1954 with improved handle and new jaw angle of 15 degrees (BAHCO)
- Adjustable wrench from 1984 and the first with ERGO handle (BAHCO)
- Today's version of the adjustable wrench from 1992 with ERGO (BAHCO)