Which tool is used for aligning holes in plates or pipe flanges?

The tool commonly used for aligning holes in plates or pipe flanges is the drift pin. This tool is designed to be inserted into aligned holes to help move or align two pieces of metal or other materials. When flanges or plates are put together, it can be essential for ensuring that the holes line up properly for fasteners. The drift pin serves as a temporary guide to keep the holes aligned while the final securing method (usually bolts or similar connectors) is put into place.

Light wands are primarily used for visual navigation or illumination in dark areas, not for physically aligning mechanical components. A full-face shield is a safety device used to protect the face from debris and hazardous materials, making it unrelated to the alignment of holes. A marline spike is a tool used primarily in rope work and for splicing lines, again not applicable in the context of aligning holes in flanges or plates. Thus, the drift pin is the most suitable and effective tool for the specific task of alignment.