Welcome to our guide on how to use a straight flute extractor! A straight flute extractor is incredibly useful for removing broken screws, bolts, and other fasteners. With the right know-how, you can remove even the most stubborn fasteners. In this guide, we will cover the basics of using a straight flute extractor to make sure that you can confidently tackle any stuck fastener. Let’s get started!
What is a Straight Flute Extractor?
A straight flute extractor is a hand tool to loosen and remove stuck or rusted screws and bolts. It is made from a combination of high, medium, and low-carbon steel, and its distinct flute shape is inserted into the head of a fastener to apply torque. This tool is aptly named for its resemblance to a flute.
How to Use a Straight Flute Extractor (Step-by-step Guide)
In order to remove bolts or screws using a straight flute extractor, one will need –
- Hammer
- Drill (Cobalt drill bit)
- Straight flute extractor with special nut,
- Wrench,
- Compressed air,
- Wd-40,
- Center punch tool, and
1. Assemble the Proper Tool
Before starting your project, ensure you have all the tools you need. Insert the cobalt drill bit into the drill, making sure it is slightly smaller in diameter than the screw or bolt. Apply a small amount of WD-40 to the screw or bolt, and let it sit for 30 minutes before attempting to pass through the bolt hole.
2. Use Center Punch and Start Drilling
To begin drilling a screw or bolt, place a center punch tool in the middle and strike it with a hammer. This will create a grip for the drill. Once the punch is in place, use the drill according to the size chart to complete the drilling process.
| Screws and Bolts Size | Drill Bit Size | Extractor Size |
|---|---|---|
| 5/16”, 5 mm – 8 mm, No. 10 | 9/64” | #1 Straight Extractor |
| 3/8”, 10 mm | 3/16” | #2 Straight Extractor |
| 7/16”, 10 mm, 1/8” NPT, 1/8” BSP | 15/64” | #3 Straight Extractor |
| 9/16”, 12 mm – 14 mm, 1/4” NPT, 1/4” BSP | 5/16” | #4 Straight Extractor |
| 5/8”, 16 mm, 3/8” NPT, 3/8” BSP | 3/8” | #5 Straight Extractor |
| 3/4”, 20 mm, 1/2” NPT, 1/2” BSP | 15/32” | #6 Straight Extractor |
| 7/8”, 22 mm, 5/8” BSP | 9/16” | #7 Straight Extractor |
Using a straight flute extractor, set the correct grip and tap it with a hammer. If the grip is not set correctly, drill a bit further to ensure that the extractor has the proper grip.
3. Final Process
Align the flutes on the extractor with the grooves or indentations on the fastener. Use a wrench or other suitable tool to turn the extractor counterclockwise. This will cause the extractor to grip the fastener and remove it from the material. Continue turning the extractor until the fastener is completely removed. Once the fastener is removed, use a suitable tool to clean the hole and remove any remaining debris.
Note: Always use caution when using a straight flute extractor, as the tool can be sharp and cause injury if handled improperly. Using the correct size extractor for the fastener is also important, as using the wrong size can damage the extractor and the fastener.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Straight Flute Extractor
Advantages:
There are several advantages to using a straight flute extractor over other types of fastener removal tools. Some of these advantages include the following:
- A straight flute extractor is capable of removing both left-hand and right-hand threaded screws and bolts.
- It’s less likely to damage the surrounding material or the fastener itself, making them a good choice for removing broken fasteners from delicate or sensitive materials.
- It’s relatively easy to use and requires minimal training to operate.
- It’s durable and can be used repeatedly without losing its effectiveness.
Overall, straight flute extractors are a useful tool for removing broken fasteners from a variety of materials. They are effective, easy to use, and can save time and effort compared to other methods of fastener removal.
Disadvantages:
There are some potential disadvantages to using a straight flute extractor, including:
- Straight flute extractors can be sharp and can cause injury if handled improperly.
- Straight flute extractors are only effective if the correct size extractor is used for the fastener. Using the wrong size extractor can damage the extractor and the fastener.
- It is said that, due to its main material being solid metal, this screw extractor is more fragile than other extractors.
Final Verdict
In conclusion, straight flute extractors are a great tool for removing stuck or broken fasteners. When used properly, they can make the process of removing fasteners much easier and quicker.
Try it out today, and if you liked our guide and it works perfectly, please share it with a friend!
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