Bit (tool)

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Bits in different designs
Some types of bits: (a) Slotted, (b)  Phillips , (c)  Pozidriv , (d)  Torx , (e)  Allen , (f) Square: Robertson , (g)  Tri-Wing , (h)  Torq-Set , (i) tensioner; for more see: screw head

A bit as a tool is an exchangeable screwdriver blade without a handle for a specific screw head profile (see illustration). The mostly hexagonal receptacle is shaped so that it can be inserted into a correspondingly standardized bit holder.

The string between the bit and (any) drive usually consists of drive → bit holder → bit , whereby the bit holder is either a fixed part of the drive (e.g. handle or cordless screwdriver ) or a separate part that can be combined with the following drives:

is connected.

  • the hexagonal shape makes it possible to clamp bits directly into a drill chuck, i.e. to do without the bit holder (and thus the possibility of quick change)
Magnetic bit holder with fold-out magazine

In contrast to conventional screwdrivers, bits are usually short. To prevent the bit from falling out of the bit holder, the holder is provided with a retaining device, such as a C-ring notch or ball groove (DIN 3126 / ISO 1173), or the bit is held magnetically . The variety of shapes and sizes of screwdriver tips also applies to bits. The common dimension for the bit holder hexagon is 14 inch (6.35 mm). Other standardized bit sizes are 516 inches (≈ 8 mm) or 716 inches (≈ 11 mm). There are also so-called minibits with a size of 4 mm ( 532 inches); Occasionally, 5 mm versions can also be found in stores. The dimension refers to the distance between two opposing faces of the bit ( width across flats ).

Bits come in many shapes and profiles, including slotted, Phillips , hexagon and Torx ; see the picture at the top right and the list of screw head drives ; also as a combination blade .

genus

Both the bit and the bit are common.

Advantages and disadvantages

The advantages of bits over an ordinary screwdriver include:

  • low price
  • small storage volume
  • light weight
  • free choice of drive tool
  • easily exchangeable and replaceable
Extra long bit on a small cordless screwdriver

Disadvantage:

  • possibly too large a cross-section for screws countersunk in deep holes (here, however, slightly smaller minibits or bits in an extended version can be used)
  • sometimes unwieldy drive, for example when turning very small screws
  • Depending on the equipment used and its quality, there is play between the individual components

Differences in quality

There are big differences in price and quality when it comes to bits. They usually consist of specially hardened steel or a chrome-vanadium steel alloy. For better durability, the tip can be refined with a titanium nitride (TiN bits) or a diamond coating. Tiny diamond particles are applied to the bit tip for the diamond coating. The diamond particles are used to avoid damage to the screw head when dismantling or assembling a Phillips or slotted screw. As a result of the rotary movement, they press themselves into the material and thus generate a longitudinal and transverse holding torque - the bit no longer slips out of the screw head as easily.

Web links

Commons : Bits  - collection of images, videos and audio files
Wiktionary: Bit  - explanations of meanings, word origins, synonyms, translations

Individual evidence

  1. Bit insert. In: duden.de , accessed on November 14, 2016