Circlip pliers, also known as snap ring pliers, are specialized hand tools used for installing or removing circlips, which are types of retaining rings. Circlips are circular metal rings with small tabs or protrusions on the ends, and they are used to secure components onto shafts or in bores.
Circlip pliers are designed with specific features to engage and manipulate circlips effectively. They typically have pointed or bent tips with small jaws that can fit into the holes or notches of the circlip. The jaws of the pliers can expand or contract to engage with the circlip for installation or removal.
There are two main types of circlip pliers:
External Circlip Pliers: These pliers are used for installing or removing external circlips, which are circlips that fit into grooves on the outside of a shaft or bore. External circlip pliers have jaws that expand when squeezed, allowing them to grip the circlip from the outside and compress it for installation or removal.
Internal Circlip Pliers:
These pliers are used for installing or removing internal circlips, which are circlips that fit into grooves on the inside of a bore or housing. Internal circlip pliers have jaws that contract when squeezed, allowing them to fit inside the circlip and expand it for installation or removal.
Circlip pliers come in various sizes and styles to accommodate different circlip sizes and configurations. They may have interchangeable tips or multiple jaw positions to adapt to specific circlip designs.
When using circlip pliers, it’s important to ensure proper alignment of the jaws with the circlip and to apply even pressure to avoid damaging the circlip or the surrounding components. Following the manufacturer’s instructions and guidelines for the specific circlip pliers being used is recommended.
Circlip pliers are commonly used in automotive repair, machinery maintenance, manufacturing, and various other industries where circlips are utilized. They are essential tools for efficiently and safely installing or removing circlips, making tasks involving circlips more manageable and precise.