raspador

Raspador is a term used in Portuguese and Spanish to denote a hand tool designed to remove material from a surface by scraping. It covers a wide range of implements, from industrial blades used to strip paint to kitchen utensils used to shave or zest ingredients. The basic principle is a sharp edge or edge-like surface drawn across another material to detach or smooth it.

Common forms include metal paint scrapers with a rigid blade for removing paint, putty, or adhesives; plastic scrapers for delicate surfaces; ice scrapers used on vehicles to remove frost; and citrus rasps or zesters used in cooking to remove thin layers of citrus peel. In woodworking and manufacturing, other raspa- or scraper-style tools may be used to clean, smooth, or shape surfaces by removing small amounts of material.

Materials and design vary widely. Metal rasps are typically made of steel or stainless steel for durability, while plastic variants are used for lighter-duty or non-scratch applications. Handles may be wood, plastic, rubber, or metal and are often contoured to improve grip and control. Some rasps feature angled blades, curved surfaces, or replaceable blades to suit specific tasks.

Safety and maintenance are important. Keep blades sharp to ensure clean, controlled scraping and to reduce the risk of gouging surfaces or injuring the user. Use appropriate protective gear as needed, and follow manufacturer instructions for use and storage. Clean tools after use to remove paint, glue, or food residues and store them out of reach of children.

Etymology: the word derives from raspar, meaning to scrape, reflecting the tool’s primary action. It is cognate with the English word rasp.