Editing Mandrel (section)

== Variants ==
[[File:Mandrel 001.jpg|thumb|Rotary tool mandrel with an accompanying grinding wheel]]

=== In machining ===
An example of one type of mandrel is a shaped bar of metal inserted in, or next to, an item to be machined or bent in a certain pattern, e.g. in [[tube drawing|drawing metal tubing]]. [[Exhaust pipe]]s for automobiles are frequently bent using a mandrel during manufacture. The mandrel allows the exhaust pipes to be bent into smooth curves without undesirable creasing, kinking, or collapse. Molten glass may also be so shaped.  

A [[Chuck (engineering)|chuck]] is used on a [[Lathe (tool)|lathe]] to hold pieces of wood, metal or plastic to be machined as they are turned. In this way, rods can be threaded, furniture legs are turned to a desired shape, and irregularly-shaped objects can be given a round shape. Several types of mandrel are used with lathes. Original expanding mandrels have a slightly tapered wedge that will expand to hold the item.

A third type of mandrel is that which is used to hold circular saw blades, buffing wheels (used for polishing), and sanding discs onto [[drill]]s, circular saws, and similar power tools. A mandrel of this type generally consists of a cylinder, threaded on one end, with a [[Washer (hardware)|washer]] [[Brazing|brazed]] onto the threaded end and an accompanying [[screw]] and second washer used to clamp the circular saw blade, sanding media, or other rotary tool onto the mandrel.

While most mandrels are driven by direct connection to an [[electric motor]] or other engine, other mandrels may be driven by attachment to a bearing-supported,  [[pulley]]-driven shaft.

=== In jewelry ===
[[File:Jewellery_mandrels.jpg|thumb|Several types of 'triblet' along with other Jewellery mandrels]]
[[File:Jewellery_mandrels_(2).jpg|thumb|Wood and steel mandrels for shaping bracelets]]

A 'triblet' is a type of mandrel found in [[jewelry]] manufacturing<ref name=":0" /> that is not inserted into or held by a machine. Such mandrels vary in sizes and shapes, from small tapered metal rods (ring mandrels) to freestanding metal conic sections (used for making bracelets). Unlike with mechanical mandrels, the process is performed by hand. When shaping a ring or bangle with a triblet, it is typical to bend and solder the metal into a rough loop, then place it over the thinner end of the mandrel. Once done, the next step is to strike the work in a downward motion with a hammer or other tool to push it towards the wider end. This forces the metal to adopt a true ring-shape. Triblets with measurements cut into them (called '[[ring size]] sticks') can also be used as a quick way of measuring the final size of a ring. A triblet can also be used to make a ring slightly bigger by gently tapping it in order to force it down the cone - thus stretching the metal. Triblets are also used to repair squashed or damaged rings.<ref>{{Cite web|title=What Is A Ring Mandrel & How To Use It|url=https://www.kernowcraft.com/jewellery-making-tips/silversmithing-and-soldering-advice/what-is-a-ring-mandrel-and-how-to-use-it|access-date=2022-01-13|website=www.kernowcraft.com}}</ref>

=== In music ===
A type of mandrel is also used in making reeds for [[double reed]] instruments such as the bassoon or oboe. <ref>{{cite web|date=2011-02-13|title=Reed Making: how I do it, part 1. &#124; Trent Jacobs, bassoonist|url=https://tjbassoon.com/2011/02/13/reed-making-how-i-do-it-part-1/|access-date=2019-10-01|publisher=Tjbassoon.com}}</ref>