The stationary jaw on a pipe wrench is commonly referred to as the heel jaw or heel of the wrench. Pipe wrenches, sometimes called Stillson wrenches, are adjustable wrenches used to grip and turn pipes or other rounded workpieces. They have one fixed jaw (the heel jaw) and one movable jaw that can be adjusted to fit different pipe diameters. The heel jaw provides an anchor point and leverage for turning the piping. Understanding the basic parts of a pipe wrench like the heel jaw helps ensure proper selection, use, and care of this versatile plumbing tool.
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What Is a Pipe Wrench?
A pipe wrench is a specialized plumbing tool used to grip and turn pipes, fittings, valves, and other cylindrical objects. The key features of a pipe wrench include:
- An adjustable movable jaw operated by a worm gear that allows the opening size to be increased or decreased to fit different pipe diameters.
- Serrated jaw teeth that grip the surface of pipes to prevent slipping.
- A heel jaw that provides a solid base and fulcrum for leverage when turning piping.
- An overall C-shaped head design that can wrap around piping for a secure grip.
- A long handle that provides increased torque for turning pipe.
The adjustable nature of the movable jaw enables one pipe wrench to be used on a wide range of pipe sizes from 1/8” to several inches in diameter. The serrated teeth give the wrench much better grip than a smooth jaw would. And the heel jaw and C-shaped head allow the force applied on the handle to be multiplied for high turning power. This makes a pipe wrench an essential tool for loosening stubborn pipes or fittings.
Stationary Heel Jaw
On a pipe wrench, the stationary jaw located opposite the adjustable movable jaw is formally called the heel jaw or heel. Other common names used include the fixed jaw, stationary jaw, or back jaw.
Purpose and Function
The heel jaw has two key functions:
- To provide an anchoring point and resistance when turning pipe. As force is applied to turn the piping, the heel jaw digs into the surface and creates resistance to counteract the turning motion.
- To act as a fulcrum or pivot point for leveraging the adjustable jaw. The heel jaw focuses the force from the handle onto the movable jaw to tighten its grip on the pipe.
Essentially, the heel jaw enables the user to create much higher torque for twisting stubborn pipes than could be generated by hand alone. It accomplishes this both passively, by anchoring the tool in place, and actively, by providing a force multiplier.
Design
The heel jaw typically consists of a simple fixed lug or plate with serrated teeth or ridges on the interior surface. The most critical design element is the geometry of the teeth or ridges. These features must be optimized to maximize gripping power against the pipe surface. Common designs include pyramidal, square, and angled teeth.
The number, size, angle, and pattern of the teeth impact grip strength. Manufacturers aim to design the ideal heel jaw tooth profile to bite into piping and prevent slippage under load. Typically, the teeth are forged as part of the overall wrench head. On some adjustable wrenches, the heel jaw may also be replaceable in case the teeth become excessively worn.
Using and Caring for the Heel Jaw
When utilizing a pipe wrench, the heel jaw should first be positioned against the fixed, stationary section of pipe. The movable jaw is then tightened incrementally until the pipe is firmly gripped. The wrench handle can then be pulled or pushed to break loose the joint or fitting being turned.
It is important when gripping that the heel jaw teeth are fully in contact with the piping surface. This ensures the wrench is as stable and solidly anchored as possible during the turning operation.
Over time and heavy use, the serrated teeth on the heel jaw will wear down and become smooth. This decreases grip and can lead to slippage or damage to piping or fittings. Regular inspection of the wrench teeth, and timely replacement of excessively worn heel jaws, helps maintain proper functioning and safety.
Types of Pipe Wrenches
While the basic design is similar, there are a few different types and sizes of pipe wrenches to suit various applications:
Strap Wrench
- Used for thinner pipes up to 1 1⁄2 inches diameter.
- Have a longer handle and smaller jaw capacity than other models.
- Lightweight and affordable option good for routine plumbing tasks.
Standard Pipe Wrench
- Most common size, typically 10-14 inches long.
- Used on pipe diameters ranging from 1/8” to 4”.
- Rugged, heavy-duty steel construction.
- Provide high grip strength and torque for stubborn pipes.
Large Pipe Wrench
- 18 inches or longer in length.
- Used on pipes 4” or larger in diameter.
- Heavier model with more leverage for high torque.
- Oversized heel jaw and wide jaw opening.
Larger pipe wrenches are necessary for manipulating very large pipes where high levels of grip and torque are essential. They also allow for quicker work on assembling or disassembling large diameter piping systems.
Other Stationary Jaw Tools
While the heel jaw is unique to pipe wrenches, some other types of adjustable wrench also have a fixed stationary jaw opposite the movable jaw. These include:
Monkey Wrench
- Fully enclosed head grips nuts, bolts, and hardware.
- Teeth only on adjustable jaw side.
- Flat, smooth stationary jaw provides stable base.
Alligator Wrench
- Reversible angle head works in tight spaces.
- Knurled stationary jaw with minimal teeth.
- Thinner profile but very rigid head.
Offset Wrenches
- Adjustable heads set at an angle to the handle.
- Allows access to awkward spots.
- Same stationary jaw and adjustment mechanism as standard wrench types.
The stationary jaws on these other wrench types serve the same basic purpose – providing a solid base and pivot point for the movable jaw to grip against. The terminology is less definitive, but “stationary jaw” or “heel jaw” would appropriately describe that component of the tool.
Conclusion
In summary, the stationary or heel jaw is an important element of any pipe wrench. It provides resistance to create leverage when breaking loose piping, as well as a solid base for the adjustable jaw to grip against. Keeping the heel jaw teeth clean, sharp, and replaced as needed will maintain the optimal functioning and safety of a pipe wrench over time. Understanding the role of the heel jaw is key to properly utilizing pipe wrenches and other adjustable plumbing tools.