Millwright Level 1 Practice Exam

What is a primary purpose of a flat (cold) chisel?

1. Sharpening edges

2. Cutting off rivets

3. Drilling holes

4. Reshaping metals

The correct answer is: Cutting off rivets

The primary purpose of a flat (cold) chisel is to cut off rivets or to cut through hardened metal. A flat chisel has a wide, flat end that allows for the effective application of force when striking, making it suitable for staking or cutting operations, particularly in metalworking where rivets or bolts need to be removed or cut flush with a surface. In this context, the design and function of the flat chisel provide an efficient means of penetrating metal without deformation, which is crucial when dealing with materials like rivets that are often difficult to remove otherwise. The other functions listed, such as sharpening edges or drilling holes, are not within the primary applications of a flat chisel; those tasks typically require different tools designed specifically for those purposes. Reshaping metals also falls outside the typical uses of a flat chisel, as shaping is more commonly done with hammers and other forming tools.