martelos

Martelos is the plural form of martelo, a hand tool with a weighted head attached to a handle, used to deliver blows in various tasks. In Portuguese-speaking contexts, martelos covers a range of striking tools employed in construction, metalworking, and craftsmanship. The term derives from Latin malleus, through forms that influenced older European languages, and its core function is to shape, assemble, or separate materials by percussion.

Common types include the martelo de carpinteiro (carpenter’s hammer), typically with a claw for nail removal and a straight or curved handle for driving nails. The martelo de bola (ball-peen hammer) is used in metalworking for peening and shaping metal surfaces. The martelo de borracha (rubber mallet) provides impact without marring surfaces, suitable for assembly tasks. For heavier work, the marreta or martelo de pedreiro (demolition or masonry hammer) delivers powerful blows for breaking or adjusting masonry and stone.

Materials and design vary, but heads are usually made of steel or iron and may be hardened for durability. Handles are commonly wood, fiberglass, or steel, chosen for comfort and resilience. Weights range from a few hundred grams to several kilograms, with larger hammers used for construction and demolition and smaller ones for precise carpentry and metalwork.

Safety and use guidelines emphasize eye protection, proper grip, and matching hammer type to the task. Regular inspection for cracks, chips, or loosened heads helps prevent accidents and damage to workpieces.