A 'Bristol wrench' is a fastener driving tool used on Bristol
set screws, both of which were created by the
Bristol Wrench Company.
Description
The body of the Bristol wrench is an L-shaped bar of metal formed from round stock, similar in appearance to an
Allen wrench. The fastening end resembles a 4- or 6-toothed
gear, which mates with a similar hole in the set screw.
[1]
The Bristol Wrench Company claims that the screws are of superior design because almost all of the turning force is applied at right angles to the fastener axis. This greatly reduces possibility of stripping the head of the fastener when tightening. These fasteners are often used when softer, non-ferrous metals are required, even in extremely small sizes.
Uses
Bristol set screws are currently used in avionics, higher-end communications equipment, cameras, air brakes, construction and farm equipment, astronomy, and military equipment. At one time they were common in refrigeration equipment as well. They are frequently used to secure knobs on front panel controls or gears on shafts, where extreme tightening is required.
References
1. "
★ U.S. Bureau of Naval Personnel (1973). Tools and Their Uses". Courier Dover Publications, p. 13. ISBN 0-486-22022-2
External links
★ http://www.bristolwrench.com