If you are into mechanics then you are probably familiar with all the type of socket sets that are available out there. Socket or Socket wrenches are basically tools that either operated manually or with the help of electricity. They are comprised of two parts: a ratchet and a socket. A ratchet is a tool with gear that can move when turned in one particular direction and locks itself when turned in the other direction. The ratchet has a square nub that comes with changeable sockets which are of different sizes. They can be easily popped on and off whenever it is needed. Today, in this article we are going to learn about the different types of socket sets that are available in the market.
What are the different types of socket sets that are available on the market?
In order to use a socket wrench properly, you need to have some basic knowledge about it. To help you out we have listed the various types of socket sets that are available in the market. Here you go with the list:
A hex socket is a short form of hexagonal. From the name itself, it can be very well figured out that it is a socket which fits around a hexagonal shaped bolt or nut head. Now there are two types of hex sockets, one is the six points and the other one is the twelve points. The six-pint hex socket is known to have only 6 points while the twelve point hex socket is known to have 12 points.
The next type of sockets is the impact sockets. Impact sockets are known to have an industrial finish that makes them black in colour. These types of sockets are mainly made of power impact wrenches. Impact sockets are supposed to have a non-corrosive finish along with thicker walls so that they can manage the vibration and the extra power.
Spark Plug Sockets:
These types of sockets are used for fitting or removing a spark plug into an engine. In comparison to standard sockets, these sockets are much longer in size. These types of sockets also come with a rubber insert that prevents the spark plug from getting damaged when the wrench is put to work.
Pass through Sockets:
Another type of sockets that are available in the market is the pass-through sockets. This type of socket is needed when you have to deal with a stud or bolt with a long shaft. In order to tighten or loosen it up, you may require using a pass-through the socket. This type of sockets is known to have a pass-through for a hole in it which makes it a hollow tube. It is because of this design that you can use this on any type of bolt without length becoming a problem. For a pass-through socket, you will be requiring a pass through ratchet that can be clamped around the socket.
At times it may happen that the nut or bolt head that you are trying to reach is not at a very convenient place. In situations like this where you can’t reach the bolt head because of an odd angle or because something is obstructing the way, a universal joint can be used to help the situation. Universal joints come with a ball swivel which provides you with 360 degrees turning action. It is because of this feature that you can even reach the tighter spots with the help of a universal joint.
So, these are the different types of socket sets that are available in the market. Based on your need and requirement you can get any of the above mentioned socket set that you want or you can get all of them at once because you never know when you need them. In short, it can be concluded that these tools are really helpful especially for the ones that are into mechanics or maintenance, whatever may be the case. Now that you know about the different types of sockets, it will be easier for you to identify all of them.