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A ball-peen hammer, also known as a ball-pein hammer or machinist’s hammer, is a type of hammer used primarily in metalworking and shaping tasks. Here are its key features and uses:
- Head Design: The hammer has a flat face on one end of the head and a rounded, hemispherical peen on the opposite end. The peen is usually smaller in diameter than the flat face.
- Purpose:
- Flat Face: The flat face is used for striking punches, chisels, and metalworking tools. It delivers a sharp, direct blow.
- Peen (Ball End): The rounded peen end is used for shaping and riveting metal. It’s effective for peening or spreading the head of a rivet to secure it tightly.
- Material: Ball-peen hammers are typically made from hardened steel, ensuring durability and strength to withstand heavy use in metal fabrication and repair work.
- Versatility: Besides riveting and shaping tasks, ball-peen hammers are also used in automotive repair, jewelry making, and any application where precise shaping and striking are required.
- Handle: The handle of a ball-peen hammer is usually made of wood, fiberglass, or metal, providing a comfortable grip and absorbing some of the shock from hammering.
- Sizes: Ball-peen hammers come in various sizes, typically measured by the weight of the hammer head, ranging from small, lightweight hammers for delicate work to larger, heavier ones for more robust tasks.
Overall, the ball-peen hammer is a versatile tool in metalworking and mechanical trades, valued for its ability to shape, strike, and secure metal components effectively.
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