Vijlen

Vijlen (singular vijl) are hand tools used to remove material from a workpiece by abrasion. They are used in metalworking, woodworking and plastic shaping to create flat, curved or contoured surfaces with smooth finishes. The cutting teeth of a file are hardened and patterned along the length; the body may taper toward the tip to provide different cutting areas and reach into recesses.

Common shapes include flat files, round files, half-round files, square files, and triangular files. Files also vary in teeth pattern, such as single-cut and double-cut, and in coarseness from rough to fine. Specialized profiles exist for edges and narrow spaces.

Most vijlen are made of tempered high-carbon steel; some are alloyed, stainless, or coated. Many have wooden or plastic handles to improve grip, while some are used without handles. Quality files retain their teeth longer and are more expensive; inexpensive files wear faster and clog more easily.

Usage and care: Secure the workpiece in a vise and use long, steady strokes. Apply appropriate pressure and keep the teeth clean with a file card to remove chips. For metalworking, light lubrication reduces clogging. After use, dry and store files in a dry place to prevent rust. Regular inspection of the teeth helps maintain performance, and rotated use of different files can extend their life.