Short Answer:

In mechanical fitting work, different types of hand tools are used to cut, shape, smooth, measure, and assemble metal parts. These tools help in performing various fitting operations such as filing, sawing, drilling, tapping, and marking. Each tool has its own specific role in ensuring that parts fit together properly.

Common tools used in fitting include files, hacksaws, hammers, chisels, drills, taps and dies, punches, vices, calipers, micrometers, and surface plates. These tools are simple but essential for accurate and smooth fitting work in mechanical workshops and industries.

Detailed Explanation:

Common tools used in fitting

Fitting is a manual process done in mechanical workshops to adjust and assemble metal parts. For this purpose, several tools are used to perform different operations like cutting, measuring, shaping, marking, and threading. These tools help the fitter achieve accurate size, good surface finish, and proper alignment of parts.

Let’s understand the most common tools used in fitting and their purpose in simple words:

1. Bench Vice

The bench vice is a strong clamping tool fixed on the workbench. It holds the workpiece firmly while cutting, filing, or drilling.

Use:

• Holding the metal piece during fitting work
• Keeps the work stable and safe during operation

2. Files

Files are hand tools used to remove small amounts of material and smooth the surface. They come in different shapes such as flat, round, and half-round.

Use:

• Finishing edges
• Adjusting dimensions
• Making surfaces even

3. Hacksaw

The hacksaw is used to cut metal rods, bars, and plates. It has a blade fitted into a frame and is operated by hand.

Use:

• Cutting metal pieces to required length
• Rough cutting before filing or machining

4. Hammer

Hammers are used for light striking work. In fitting shops, a ball peen hammer is commonly used.

Use:

• Driving punches or chisels
• Light tapping for alignment

5. Chisel

A chisel is a cutting tool made of hardened steel. It is used with a hammer to remove excess material.

Use:

• Removing extra metal
• Cutting shapes manually

6. Punches

Punches are pointed tools used to mark the metal surface. They help in marking hole centers for drilling.

Types:

• Dot punch (for marking lines)
• Center punch (for marking drill points)

7. Drills

Hand drills or bench drills are used to make holes in metal. Drill bits of different sizes are used for different holes.

Use:

• Creating holes for screws, bolts, or tapping
• Making holes with accurate position

8. Taps and Dies

Taps are used for making internal threads, and dies are used for making external threads on rods.

Use:

• Thread cutting in holes and on rods
• Making parts that can be screwed together

9. Surface Plate

A surface plate is a flat reference tool used for precise marking and checking flatness.

Use:

• Layout work for marking lines
• Checking surface straightness

10. Measuring Tools

These tools are very important in fitting for checking sizes and alignment.

Common types:

• Steel rule – For linear measurements
• Vernier caliper – For accurate inside, outside, and depth measurements
• Micrometer – For high-precision thickness measurement
• Try square – For checking 90-degree angles
• Calipers (inside and outside) – For comparing diameters

11. Marking Tools

Marking tools are used to draw lines, curves, and reference points on metal before cutting or drilling.

Examples:

• Scriber – For drawing fine lines
• Divider – For drawing circles and arcs
• Dot punch – For marking drill spots

Conclusion

Common fitting tools are simple hand-operated instruments that play a big role in shaping, finishing, and assembling metal parts. Tools like files, hammers, drills, and measuring instruments help the fitter perform tasks with accuracy and control. These tools are essential in every mechanical workshop for repair work, custom fitting, and manual finishing. A good understanding of these tools ensures better quality and safe working in the fitting process.