STANLEY PROTO REDESIGNS ITS UNIVERSAL SOCKETS
Proto has upgraded its entire line with a new design that offers strength and precision.

Conyers, GA, August 10, 2009 – Stanley Proto is replacing its entire line of Universal Sockets with a new and improved socket design. The new line consists of SKUs in the Proto and the Blackhawk by Proto lines. These new items offer increased strength and reduce the chance of foreign object damage (FOD) to equipment.

A universal socket places a swiveling block-and pin-joint between the tool’s drive end and the socket. The pin is nickel-plated for corrosion resistance. A flex angle of up to 40 degrees off of vertical lets the technician reach fasteners located in tight spots or at odd angles, including fasteners that can’t be reached with a socket connected directly to a ratchet or via a straight extension. It has uses in automotive engine repair and in aerospace work.

The new SKUs include ¼, 3/8, and ½ in drives with sockets in metric and SAE sizes. For users who want to use their existing sockets, each drive size also includes a universal joint that will connect the drive tool to a standard socket.

All of the new Proto SKU’s have been engineered to meet and exceed ASME hand tool standards where the strength of the joint is critical. The enhancements made by Proto include a central block that has been thickened for greater strength, and a fixed pin rather than a screw to hold the joint together. The fixed pin is nickel plated for wear and corrosion resistance. These enhancements make it possible for users to apply a high maximum torque.

Both ends of the socket are made with a cold forming manufacturing process. This process is more cost effective than hot forming, and offers more dimensional control of the tool’s socket and drive ends during the manufacturing.

Together, the new features combine to create a tough, precision tool that will find a place in any toolbox.