Definition:
A flat-head screwdriver has a wedge-shaped flat tip. It is used to loosen or tighten the screws that has a linear, straight notch on their heads. It is the most commonly used screwdriver in the world. The other name of this screwdriver is a slotted screwdriver. Among all types of screwdrivers, it is a widely used screwdriver.
Design Details
This screwdriver has a flat tip with a wedge shape. The flat head screwdriver comes in different sizes to fit into screws of different sizes. The other end is attached with a handle to hold it firmly while working. The handle may be wooden. plastic or the material that gives excellent grip for holding. It fits into screws that have a linear, straight notch in their heads.
Uses of Flat Head Screwdriver
Flat head screwdrivers are most commonly used to loosen or tighten screws (fasteners) with linear or straight-notch heads.
How To Use a Flat-Head Screwdriver?
1. Choosing The Right Screwdriver
Before starting your task, you have to select or choose the right screwdriver that is suitable for the work. If you are working in a tight space then you have to select the flat-head screwdriver with a short shank. And if you are going to work under the hood of your car or deep inside the wall then choose the screwdriver with a long shank.
Always choose the flat-head screwdriver with a soft padded handle if you are going to work for a long duration. But if you have to loosen or tighten a few screws then you should choose the plastic handle screwdriver that allows better grip and control.
2. Ensuring the Fitting of the Screwdriver to the Fasteners
After choosing the suitable flat-head screwdriver. Now it’s time to check whether it fits the fasteners perfectly or not. Select the correct size of the flat tip so that it fits the fasteners perfectly. A correct fitting prevents slipping and damage to the fasteners and screwdriver.
3. Put the Flat Head Tip Into the Fasteners Head
Once you have chosen the right screwdriver for your Job and it fits into the fasteners perfectly. Now put the flat-head screwdriver into the slot of the fastener’s head.
If you are using a new screw or tightening the fasteners, then you have to use one hand for the screwdriver and the other hand to hold the fastener to keep it in the right position and prevent slipping. You can also pre-drill a pilot hole to keep the fastener in position.
4. Turn the Screwdriver Clockwise to Tighten the Fasteners
In order to tighten an existing fastener or drive a new one you have to turn the screwdriver in a clockwise direction. Holding the screw or fastener in one hand and the screwdriver on other hand, set the flat tip of the screwdriver in the slot of the fastener’s head, and align the shaft of the screwdriver with the fastener. Turn the screwdriver clockwise with a force to drive it into the target material.
5. Turn the Screwdriver Anti-clockwise (Counterclockwise) to Loosen the Fasteners
In order to loosen the existing screws or fasteners you have to turn the flat-head screwdriver in anti-clockwise (counterclockwise) direction.
Hold the screwdriver and sits it firmly in the slot of the fastener’s head. Align the screwdriver’s shaft with the fasteners and start turning the screwdriver anti-clockwise direction with a force. An extra small force while turning the screwdriver helps to come out fasteners easily.
Put a loose grip on the fastener while it is coming out to prevent it from dropping down when it comes out from the hole completely.
Conclusion
We have studied here about the Flat Head Screwdriver its definition uses and how to use it. I hope you have enjoyed the post. If you like it then don’t forget to share it.
