Module 7.3 Tools: hand, power, precision measuring and test equipment

Knowledge level

Sub-module	A	B1 / B3	B2 / B2L
7.3 Tools	3	3	3

Content: common hand tools; common power tools; precision measuring tools; lubrication equipment and methods; operation, function and use of electrical general test equipment.

Hand tools

• Spanners/wrenches: open-end, ring (box), combination, socket sets, flare-nut (for B-nuts on fluid lines), adjustable (avoid on aircraft hardware where possible). Pull towards you rather than push.
• Screwdrivers: flat, Phillips, Reed and Prince (Frearson - sharper point; not interchangeable with Phillips), Torx, hex keys. Use the correct size to avoid cam-out and damaged heads.
• Pliers: combination, long-nose, diagonal cutters, safety-wire twisting pliers, circlip pliers.
• Hammers and mallets: ball-peen, soft-faced (rawhide, plastic, copper) for parts that must not be marked.
• Cutting tools: hacksaw (blade teeth pointing forward, cutting on the push stroke; fine teeth for thin material - at least two teeth in contact), files (single/double cut, bastard, second cut, smooth; draw filing), chisels, snips (aviation snips: red cuts left, green cuts right, yellow straight).
• Punches: centre, prick, pin, drift, transfer punches.
• Drills: twist drills (118° point for general metals, 135° for hard materials), reamers for precise holes, countersinks (100° for aircraft fasteners).
• Taps and dies for cutting threads.

Power tools

• Pneumatic drills, rivet guns, rotary files and sanders - common in aircraft workshops (no spark risk from the motor, light). Use correct air pressure and keep air lines clean and lubricated.
• Electric drills and grinders - observe earthing, cable condition and spark hazards near fuel vapours.
• Safety: eye and ear protection, secure the workpiece, correct speed for the material, disconnect power when changing bits.