Circlip pliers are used to install or remove circlips, which are circular clips with a missing section and small holes on either side. They can be used on the outside or inside diameter of a dowel or pipe. Sets of circlip pliers with various sizes and head designs are available, including reversible and interchangeable heads. Using the correct tool is important to avoid damaging the clip.
Circlip pliers are tools designed to remove or install a specialized type of clip known as a circlip. These look like a circle and are formed from flat steel, plastic or other materials. The rim is missing a small section and will have small holes either side of the missing section. Circlip pliers are designed similar to other pliers, although each arm of the pliers terminates in a small peg. These pegs are able to fit into holes in a retaining ring, allowing the operator to either tighten the clip together or spread it apart.
Circlips can be used on the outside diameter of the dowel or peg, or on the inside diameter of a pipe or other hole, so the circlip pliers’ ability to tighten and widen can be important. To this end, circlip pliers are usually designed to easily perform one or the other of these tasks. Some are constructed so that by squeezing the handles, the pegs tighten together like a typical pliers. Others will separate the pegs from each other when you squeeze the handles, while still others will be reversible. These unique circlip pliers allow the operator to reposition the grips, for pinched or spread out operation.
Because circlips can come in various sizes and have different diameter holes, sets of circlip pliers are often available. These kits can be supplied with a wide variety of circlip pliers which feature a range of pin sizes and head designs. Some will have a straight design, while others will bend at 45° or 90°. This can help you reach hard-to-reach circlips under certain conditions.
In addition to reversible circlip pliers, you can also find some with interchangeable heads. Like a regular set of circlip pliers, these can allow for the removal and installation of a wide variety of circlips. Since many heads with a variety of peg sizes and orientations can be installed on a single handle, the set could take up less space and be easier to move from job to job.
While it is sometimes possible to remove or install a circlip without the proper pliers, the job is usually much easier with the correct tool. Enlarging a circlip may be possible with a couple of small screwdrivers, although this is more difficult than using circlip pliers and can cause the clip to bend or pop out and become lost.
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