The tool shown in the provided figure is used to?

The tool referred to is specifically designed for flaring tubing. Flared tubing is essential in many piping systems, particularly in applications involving high-pressure gas and fluid lines, where a strong seal is required. The flaring process expands the end of the tubing outward, creating a cone shape that can be securely fastened with a corresponding fitting, ensuring a leak-free connection.

In the context of pipefitting, this is a crucial technique because proper flaring significantly impacts the integrity and reliability of the piping system, especially under pressure. This tool effectively shapes the tubing, allowing for the necessary geometry that fits snugly into fittings designed for flared ends, making it an indispensable part of a pipefitter's toolkit.