Plumber wrench


A plumber wrench is a pipe wrench used to rotate plumbing pipes. It is adjusted to different pipe diameters by rotating the key ring. Its advantage is that it grips with significant force without needing to engage a nut. However, if used carelessly, it can dent or break the pipe. It can also be used on nuts and other flat engagement points. It works perfectly in situations where there are hexagon-shaped nuts to be adjusted.

History

The plumber wrench was invented in the year 1888 by Swedish inventor Johan Petter Johansson. His wrench shares some principles with both the Stillson-pattern pipe wrench and the rigid pipe wrench. Nevertheless, it is a decidedly different and improved tool. It allows plumbers to use the wrench rather than a pair of tongs to separate or join pipes. It is not widely known in North America, but is common in Europe.
Johansson also improved the adjustable spanner, patenting in 1891.