This tool is used as a fuller or set in drawing metal between projections which have been formed by using the checking tool. In [Fig. 112] the sections of metal, indicated by a and c, are to be drawn to smaller dimensions. This cannot be done with the hammer, because these places are narrower than the width of the hammer dies. At c the fuller or set is being used flatwise, which is the better way, because the two round corners will not cause galling. At a it is shown in use edgewise; but this should not be continued after the opening has been enlarged sufficiently to use the tool as at c, unless perfectly sharp corners are desired.
Another convenient use for this tool is for finishing a roughly drawn tapered piece of metal, as at d. Here are shown the roughened tapered surfaces, as they have been produced by the hammer, also the method of using the set. If there is much of this kind of work to be done, it would be advisable to provide a special tool with a circular side which could be used solely as a flatter.
Fig. 113.—The Combined Top and Bottom Swages.
125. The combined top and bottom swages ([Fig. 113]) are also called spring swages, because they are somewhat flexible at the connecting loop, which keeps them in adjustment. The best material for these swages, on account of the constant hammering to which they are subjected, is a good quality of mild or soft steel. Much hammering has a tendency to crystallize the metal and causes frequent breakage.
The heavy parts forming the swages ought to be well proportioned and made from sufficiently heavy stock. The handles are drawn out from the same material and welded, or merely stub ends may be drawn from this material, and then flat stock welded on to form the handles. In either case the edges should be swaged half-round previous to welding. The top and bottom of the handles are not parallel with the upper and lower parts of the swages, because the heavy parts only should receive hammer blows.
The grooves should be perfect semicircles, with the exception of the edges indicated at e, which should be slightly round, as shown. This prevents metal from becoming lodged in the swages. If the metal sticks, the smith will be unable to revolve it in the swages, and it will become oblong in section. The corners on top of the upper swage should be removed, as shown, so that the blows will be received more directly through its center.
Fig. 114.—The Top and Bottom Swages.
126. The top and bottom swages (A and B, [Fig. 114]) are made separate, but of the same quality of material as those just described. The handle of the top swage A, however, should be round, with a small portion flattened, as shown. The bottom swage B is constructed with projecting lugs d, as shown. The distance between the lugs should be equal to the width of the lower hammer die, over which the swage should fit closely enough to prevent its displacement. The swages may be used together or separately, as desired, the lower one being convenient for cutting round material, as it prevents marring the sectional form of the stock.