Why do screwdrivers have plastic handles

But the commonalities end there, because there are many variations in blades and handles; not to mention those oddball screwdrivers that have no shafts at all, but instead use ratchets offset at a ninety-degree angle to the tip and are used for driving screws in confined spaces. Most are shaped like a bulb, large enough to be gripped comfortably in the palm of the hand. Not surprisingly, wooden-handled drivers are more often found in woodshops the handles are usually beech, but are sometimes made from boxwood or other hardwoods.

Some have oval handles, others iron shafts that run the length of the tool with wood riveted to two sides to form a handle. Auto mechanics often favor screwdrivers that have rubber sleeves on the handles for a firmer grip. Screwdrivers also can be purchased with built-in ratchets and other mechanisms that save on twisting and turning.

Sometimes called Yankee drivers or pump drivers, most have spiral grooves in the shaft that turn when the handle is pushed toward the workpiece, only to spring back when released without turning.

The force generated by this type of handle design is sufficient to remove most stubborn screws; however, in some situations, such as when working with wet or oil-covered hands, even this style of handle can slip from the grip when extreme pressure is exerted upon a tight screw or fastener. For the most torque and best grip in any condition, the tri-sided screwdriver is usually considered best. Three-sided handles permit the hand to grip a substantial surface and apply the most torque possible, even with wet or oil-covered hands.

In most cases these tools come in two varieties, namely Phillips head and flathead. Sometimes the entire handle is colored, whereas other times a band or ring is used to identify it.

Larger sets often come with color keys that users can study or refer to before beginning work. Noticing a color is often a lot easier than scrutinizing the tip, especially in a busy toolbox or in the middle of a job. What is the best insulated screwdriver? Why do electricians use insulated tools? What do insulated tools protect against? What does insulated tools mean? Are insulated tools considered PPE?

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Motion and Measurement of Distances. Light, Shadows and Reflections. Electricity and Circuits. Fun with Magnets. Air Around Us. Garbage In, Garbage Out. Q10 The handles of tools like screwdrivers and pliers used by electricians for repair work usually have plastic or rubber covers on them. Can you explain why?

Plastic and rubber both are bad conductors of electricity.