Materials and Construction:
– Crowbars are typically made of medium-carbon steel.
– They may be hardened on their ends for durability.
– Commonly forged from long steel stock, either hexagonal or cylindrical.
– Alternative designs may have a rounded I-shaped cross-section shaft.
– Versions made from wide flat steel bar are often referred to as utility or flat bars.
Etymology and Usage:
– The word ‘crowbar’ is believed to be derived from the bird-name ‘crow.’
– This is possibly due to the resemblance of crowbars to the feet or beak of a crow.
– The term ‘crowbar’ dates back to circa 1400.
– It was also known as simply a ‘crow’ or ‘iron crow’ in the past.
– In literature, William Shakespeare and Daniel Defoe mentioned the use of crowbars.
Types of Crowbars:
– Crowbars can be referred to as wrecking bars, pry bars, prybars, pinch-bars, prise bars, goosenecks, or pig bars.
– In Britain and Australia, they are known as jemmy or jimmy bars.
– They consist of a metal bar with a single curved end and flattened points.
– The curved end is often used as a first-class lever, while the flat end serves as a second-class lever.
– Some designs have a notch on the curved end for removing nails.
Function and Uses:
– Crowbars are used to force two objects apart or gain mechanical advantage in lifting.
– They are commonly employed in demolition and construction work.
– Crowbars can be utilized to pry open doors, windows, or containers.
– They are handy for removing nails or prying apart materials.
– The design of crowbars allows them to be used as any of the three lever classes.
Variations and Terminology:
– Utility bars are crowbars made from thick flat steel bar.
– Crowbars made from hexagonal or cylindrical steel stock are also common.
– Some crowbars have a goose neck shape for enhanced leverage.
– Different regions and industries may have their own names for crowbars.
– Variations in size, length, and weight exist to suit various applications.Sources: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crowbar_(tool)
