What are pipe vices made of?
What are pipe vices made of? |
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Due to the high amount of stress and torque (turning force) applied to a pipe vice during use, most of its components are made out of high-strength materials such as cast iron and hardened tool steel. | |||
Cast iron |
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The frames of most pipe vices are made from ductile cast iron. The strength of cast iron means that the vices are virtually guaranteed against breakage. | |||
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Heat-treated steel |
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As the jaws are the key clamping components of both types of pipe vice, it is vital that they are made from a material that can withstand significant amounts of pressure.The jaws of chain and hinged pipe vices are usually made out of heat-treated, drop-forged tool steel. | |||
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What is drop-forging?Drop-forging is a method used to shape metals such as steel. A machine raises and then drops a hammer onto the heated workpiece, forming it into the required shape. This process improves the strength of the metal as its grains are aligned and stretched along the lines of potential stress. |
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High-tensile steel |
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The chain of a chain pipe vice is made out of high-tensile steel. The main reason for this is the tensile strength of the material: high-tensile steel is twice as strong as mild steel. | |||
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In addition, high-tensile steel is lightweight and resistant to corrosion, providing the chain with longer life. | |||
