Industrial maintenance technicians are critical in keeping systems running smoothly, and having the right tools is key to their success. From power tools to specialized mechanical equipment, a well-prepared technician needs a reliable toolkit to handle voltage, repairs and preventive maintenance tasks. This blog outlines the top 10 must-have industrial maintenance tools every technician should include in their mechanical tools list.
1. Multimeter
As a versatile measuring system, the multimeter forms the basis for electrical troubleshooting. This empowers technicians to detect a variety of potential problems and address diagnosed issues with confidence.1
Purpose
Designed to measure essentials such as voltage, current and resistance, multimeters underscore nearly all electrical testing procedures related to industrial machinery. Maintenance technicians rely heavily on these tools for preventative purposes, primarily due to their ability to detect such a wide range of electrical concerns.
Why It’s a Must-Have
Crucial for electrical system diagnostics, the multimeter provides one of the fastest and most reliable means of identifying and addressing significant issues involving electrical components. These concerns could include faulty sensors, grounding problems or short circuits.
Since many of the most alarming hazards relate to electrical concerns, a multimeter is a must from a safety perspective. Swift detection can also help prevent bigger issues down the road, limiting downtime or reducing the need for major repairs.
2. Screwdrivers and Nut Drivers
Designed to insert and remove screws, the humble screwdriver has a powerful role to play in modern industrial maintenance. This can serve many functions but must be used skillfully to avoid damaging components or causing extra wear and tear.
Versatility in Maintenance Tasks
No toolbox or tool cabinet is complete without a screwdriver. This versatile tool can handle various industrial maintenance tasks, including everything from adjusting equipment to disassembling machinery.
Screwdrivers form the basis for effective industrial maintenance, from simple repairs to complex procedures. Nut drivers are similar but use deeper sockets to tighten or loosen nuts and bolts.
Recommended Types
Different screwdrivers can address different challenges. Ideally, maintenance technicians will have access to several. Insulated screwdrivers, for example, use non-conductive handles to protect maintenance technicians against electrical shock. That said, nut drivers are essential for dealing with bolts.
The head of the screwdriver should also be considered. Flat-head designs work well for slotted screws, but maintenance technicians are more likely to use Phillips head, torx or hex screwdrivers for high-torque tasks. It is always crucial to use the correct screwdriver based on the task at hand.2
3. Adjustable Wrenches
Uniquely flexible, adjustable wrenches use movable jaws to handle many types of fasteners with ease. These share much in common with other types of wrenches but may be more practical when dealing with space limitations or diverse components.3
Applications
Adjustable wrenches are typically used to tighten or loosen nuts or bolts but offer the unique advantage of maneuverability, especially in cramped spaces. Because the jaws are adjustable, technicians can handle more tasks with this single tool, making the adjustable wrench an amazing space-saver for any toolbox or cabinet.
Durability Matters
Heavily used wrenches can be prone to damage, especially if exposed to harsh conditions. Alloy steel can boost overall durability, but cleaning and maintenance are key to avoiding corrosion.
4. Pliers Set
The ideal mechanical tools list will include not just one, but several pairs of pliers. These may not be as versatile as screwdrivers, but they offer a crucial function: a strong grip that impacts many tasks.
Multi-Purpose Tool
Pliers can tightly grip many items and feature multiple handles, strong jaws and a pivot point. These deliver a strong grip but can also be quite precise. This unique combination allows pliers to tackle many important maintenance tasks, such as cutting, twisting wires or even extracting nails.
Must-Have Types
Pliers take many forms, with each serving a unique and vital function.4 Needle-nose pliers are among the most common and familiar, featuring longer and thinner jaws with a pointed tip. These make it easier to maneuver in tight spaces.
Slip-joint pliers provide increased versatility, as the pivot point can be adjusted to influence the width of the jaws. Locking pliers (also known as vice grips) provide a strong and secure clamp, which can be helpful when a hands-free hold is required.
5. Power Drill and Drill Bits
Hand tools are important, but power tools also play a valuable role in shaping modern industrial maintenance. Among the most heavily utilized power tools? Power drills, which bring an efficient approach to navigating a variety of potentially difficult tasks.
Versatility in Power Tools
Power tools have many crucial functions within the industrial maintenance space. They can be used for cutting, grinding and so much more. However, power drills are among the most practical on a day-to-day basis, as maintenance technicians frequently need to drill holes and fasten components with extreme precision.
Corded vs. Cordless
Choosing the right power drill can be tricky, as both corded and cordless versions come with several advantages and drawbacks. Cordless drills promise greater mobility and can be useful in tight spaces, but with a major caveat. Both battery life and torque may be limited. Corded models offer higher torque and can be used for extended periods of time, but call for easy access to electrical outlets.5
6. Torque Wrench
Not to be confused with the previously mentioned adjustable wrench, the torque wrench uses a specific amount of torque to tighten nuts and bolts strategically. These wrenches are available in click and split beam styles, using either sounds or visual indicators to reveal when the correct amount of torque is applied.6
Ensuring Precision
With high-stakes industrial maintenance procedures, there is no room for error. Torque wrenches offer peace of mind by tightening nuts and bolts based on exact specifications. Controlled torque delivers the ultimate in precision so that fasteners can be securely fastened without prompting damage.
Why It’s Essential
The torque wrench offers the precision needed to avoid two common problems, consisting of under and over-tightening. This makes it easier to apply the ‘right’ amount of force for any given task. This prevents damage to both the fasteners and surrounding components, helping to boost the integrity of industrial systems while preventing potential safety concerns.
7. Wire Strippers and Crimpers
The multimeter is just one of many tools that may influence electrical work. Maintenance technicians also work extensively with wire strippers and crimpers, influencing how electrical wires are handled and even determining whether these wires provide stable electrical circuits.
Electrical Work Essentials
Forming the foundation of effective electrical work, wire strippers and crimpers boost electrical system safety and reliability. Wire strippers help to remove insulation so that technicians can safely handle wires. Meanwhile, crimping tools help to join materials or components by applying precise pressure and, ultimately, preventing loose connections.7
Safety First
Electrical work presents some of the greatest safety concerns in modern industrial maintenance. That being said, issues such as electrical shocks can be avoided by using tools designed to preserve conductive material and establish secure connections.
8. Flashlight or Headlamp
While not necessarily top of mind when creating a mechanical tools list, flashlights and headlamps can make a huge difference, ensuring that other tools are used safely and effectively.
Importance of Visibility
Precision is imperative in all aspects of industrial maintenance, but this can be difficult to achieve simply because some settings lack reliable lighting. This is where flashlights or headlamps can prove useful, offering an additional source of light when needed.
Features to Look For
LED flashlights are preferable whenever possible, as are durable, weather-resistant models. Some flashlights include removable clips, so they can be attached to belts or other gear. Headlamps offer a hands-free alternative, which, like flashlight clips, can be helpful when both hands are needed to perform complex tasks. Ergonomic flashlights and headlamps ensure optimal comfort when used for long periods.
9. Industrial Vacuum Cleaner
Industrial vacuum cleaners go beyond standard household vacuums to provide superior suction to tackle heavy-duty cleaning tasks in potentially dangerous environments.
Cleanliness Matters
Cleaning is a core part of industrial maintenance. Tools and equipment are exposed to dirt and debris, which can limit their lifespan and could even introduce necessary safety issues. While many tools promote cleanliness, industrial vacuum cleaners are some of the most powerful and may even be capable of safely removing hazardous materials.8
Ideal Features
Industrial vacuum selection largely depends on the space the vacuum is intended to clean and the type of debris most likely to emerge. Tank capacity and filtration systems should be top of mind, with wet and dry capabilities also frequently coming into play.
10. Safety Gear
Industrial machinery presents many risks, and even the most skilled maintenance technicians can be vulnerable at times. As such, safety gear is indispensable. This can shield technicians from immediate hazards and may also limit the potential for developing problematic health conditions following years of hard work in industrial settings.
Comprehensive Protection
Ideally, maintenance technicians will have head-to-toe coverage, as many risks are present within industrial settings, and some of these can be difficult to predict. Keep in mind that different tasks or settings may call for different protective equipment. Many technicians rely on these essentials to boost workplace safety:
- Safety glasses
- Steel-toed boots
- Ear plugs or muffs
- Hard hats
Why It’s a Priority
Risk-filled industrial settings can place even the most conscientious technicians at risk. Personal protective equipment (PPE) offers a much-needed safeguard against electrical issues or hazardous materials. This may also be necessary for maintaining compliance with strict safety regulations. In fact, many employers now closely monitor PPE usage to ensure compliance.9
Discover Essential Tools and Techniques With SJVC’s Maintenance Technician Program
Having the right industrial maintenance tools is essential for every maintenance technician to work efficiently and safely. From voltage-testing multimeters to precision torque wrenches and reliable safety gear, these tools ensure technicians are prepared for any task. If you’re ready to build your skills and toolkit, check out SJVC’s Maintenance Technician program to start preparing for your career in industrial maintenance today.
Sources:
1. Garbe, E. “Tool Intel: Understanding Multimeter Basics.” ShopOwner. https://www.shopownermag.com/tool-intel-understanding-multimeter-basics/
2. Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety. “Hand Tools – Screwdrivers.” https://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/safety_haz/hand_tools/screwdrivers.html
3. Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety. “Hand Tools – Wrenches.” https://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/safety_haz/hand_tools/wrenches.html
4. Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety. “Hand Tools – Pliers and Wire Cutters.” https://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/safety_haz/hand_tools/pliers.html
5. Grainger. “Corded vs. Cordless Tools – Which is Better?” https://www.grainger.com/know-how/equipment/kh-corded-or-cordless-power-tools
6. Markel, A. “How Accurate Is Your Click-Style Torque Wrench?” Tech Shop Magazine. https://www.techshopmag.com/how-accurate-is-your-click-style-torque-wrench/
7. Mercado, F. “The Essential Guide to Wire Stripping Tools.” Hi-Spec. https://hi-spec.com/blogs/news/the-essential-guide-to-wire-stripping-tools
8. Intieri, Jr., F. “Tips for selecting the right industrial vacuum cleaner.” Processing Magazine. https://www.processingmagazine.com/material-handling-dry-wet/powder-bulk-solids/article/15587698/tips-for-selecting-the-right-industrial-vacuum-cleaner
9. Lema, D. “Low-cost system for real-time verification of personal protective equipment in industrial facilities using edge computing devices.” Journal of Real-Time Image Processing. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/374555598_Low-cost_system_for_real-time_verification_of_personal_protective_equipment_in_industrial_facilities_using_edge_computing_devices
