Trowel
Introduction
A trowel is a small hand tool used for digging, applying, smoothing, or moving small amounts of viscous or particulate material. Trowels are commonly used in gardening, masonry, and archaeology. This article delves into the various types of trowels, their specific uses, historical development, and the materials from which they are made.
Types of Trowels
Gardening Trowels
Gardening trowels are essential tools for any gardener. They are typically used for digging small holes, planting, transplanting, weeding, and mixing soil. The blade of a gardening trowel is usually made of metal, such as stainless steel or carbon steel, and the handle is often made of wood, plastic, or rubber for a comfortable grip.
Masonry Trowels
Masonry trowels are used in the construction industry for applying and shaping mortar or concrete. There are several types of masonry trowels, each designed for specific tasks:
- **Brick Trowel**: Used for spreading mortar on bricks or concrete blocks.
- **Pointing Trowel**: Smaller than a brick trowel, used for filling and shaping mortar joints.
- **Margin Trowel**: Used for applying mortar in tight spaces.
- **Finishing Trowel**: Used for smoothing and finishing the surface of concrete.
Archaeological Trowels
Archaeological trowels are specialized tools used by archaeologists for excavating and carefully removing soil from around artifacts. The most common type is the Marshalltown Trowel, known for its durability and precision. These trowels often have a pointed blade to allow for fine, detailed work.
Historical Development
The use of trowels dates back to ancient civilizations. Early examples have been found in archaeological sites from the Neolithic period, indicating their use in construction and agriculture. The design and materials of trowels have evolved over time, with significant advancements during the Industrial Revolution when mass production techniques allowed for the creation of more durable and specialized tools.
Materials and Manufacturing
Modern trowels are made from a variety of materials, each chosen for its specific properties:
- **Stainless Steel**: Resistant to rust and corrosion, commonly used for gardening and masonry trowels.
- **Carbon Steel**: Known for its strength and durability, often used in masonry trowels.
- **Plastic**: Lightweight and resistant to chemicals, used in some gardening trowels.
- **Wood**: Traditional material for handles, providing a comfortable grip.
The manufacturing process typically involves forging or stamping the blade from a sheet of metal, followed by heat treatment to enhance its strength. The handle is then attached, often with rivets or adhesive.
Specialized Uses
Trowels are not only used in gardening, masonry, and archaeology but also in other specialized fields:
- **Forensic Trowels**: Used in crime scene investigations for carefully excavating evidence.
- **Paleontological Trowels**: Used by paleontologists for excavating fossils.
- **Tile Trowels**: Used in tiling to apply adhesive evenly.
Maintenance and Care
Proper maintenance of trowels is essential to ensure their longevity and effectiveness. Key maintenance practices include:
- **Cleaning**: Remove soil, mortar, or other materials after each use.
- **Sharpening**: Regularly sharpen the blade to maintain its cutting edge.
- **Storage**: Store trowels in a dry place to prevent rust and corrosion.