Purpose and principle of operation
The main purpose of the tool is to quickly and efficiently tighten the nuts. Looking at the photo of the impact wrench, many users may note the external similarity with a screwdriver. There is some truth to this. However, the purpose of the instruments is fundamentally different. Impact wrenches in most cases have a pulse-type impact clutch. During operation, impacts are made in the direction of rotation. This mechanism works as follows. Thanks to the action of the driving element, the cartridge rotates.
The signal to stop it is the achievement of a certain threshold effort. The engagement between the driving element and the chuck ceases, and a revolution is made with the chuck stationary.
An impact occurs with a given force on the cam related to the axis of the cartridge. Since the driving element has a large mass and also gains high speed, the position of the nut changes due to torque.
The build quality of the impact mechanism largely determines the cost of the product and its durability. In some models, this mechanism is disabled, and the tool works like a screwdriver.
Impact wrenches also have such an important parameter as torque. For this purpose, the batteries used are capable of delivering the required current for a long time, which significantly increases their cost.
Unlike screwdrivers, a cordless impact wrench has a powerful discharge current. Therefore, their continuous operation time is much shorter - no more than 15-20 minutes. using one battery.
If in everyday life this tool is recommended to be used mainly in the garage, then for professional purposes the impact wrench is useful at service stations, tire service centers, when providing technical assistance, during industrial installation of metal structures, and in factories.
The best corded impact wrenches
Such models are powered by a 220-volt electrical network. They have high productivity and large dimensions, and are used for regular and long-term installation work.
Hitachi WR25SE
5
★★★★★
editorial assessment
100%
buyers recommend this product
The main feature of the model is its high torque – 1000 Nm. The durable aluminum housing protects the main elements from external influences and promotes effective heat dissipation. An additional handle ensures comfortable use of the impact wrench while suspended.
The maximum spindle speed is 1100 rpm. The tool weighs 7.7 kg. The soft start feature allows you to start working without jerking. The 900 W brushless motor is wear-resistant and does not overheat during prolonged use.
Advantages:
- high performance;
- durability;
- smooth start;
- Comfortable to hold in your hands, despite the weight.
Flaws:
- high price.
Hitachi WR25SE is designed to tighten almost any nut. It can be used in production, installation and repair work.
Makita TW 0350
4.9
★★★★★
editorial assessment
96%
buyers recommend this product
The rubberized handle of the impact wrench makes it easier to hold it, and a special gear lining provides additional protection against impacts.
The metal case is resistant to falls from low heights. A case is included for storage and transportation. The model can be attached to a belt if you need to free your hands.
The power of the tool is 400 W, the torque is 350 Nm. No special tools are required to access the brushes, which guarantees their quick replacement and convenient maintenance.
Protection of the engine from overheating facilitates long-term operation under high loads without the risk of the impact wrench failing.
Advantages:
- ease of maintenance;
- durability;
- reliable grip;
- reverse function;
- convenience of long-term work.
Flaws:
- large dimensions.
Makita TW 0350 will be useful for many hours of use. Professional solution for tightening nuts of small and medium diameters.
Patriot FS 900 1/2
4.9
★★★★★
editorial assessment
92%
buyers recommend this product
The rubberized cable of the model is resistant to kinks and is frost-resistant, which ensures stable operation of the tool in any conditions. Quick access to the carbon brushes ensures they are easy to replace yourself. A special case makes it easy to store and carry the impact wrench.
The motor power is 900 W, the spindle speed is up to 2200 rpm. The owner has two speed modes available. This facilitates accurate and efficient tightening of nuts of various sizes. Fast heat dissipation extends the operating life of the device.
Advantages:
- durability;
- speed adjustment;
- reliable grip;
- ease of transportation;
- high performance.
Flaws:
- noisy.
Patriot FS will be useful for tightening and unscrewing large nuts. The kit includes 17, 19, 21 and 22 mm sockets.
Bison ZGUE-350
4.8
★★★★★
editorial assessment
91%
buyers recommend this product
The body of the model is made of metal and reliably protects the main elements from mechanical damage or contamination. The tool functions properly at low temperatures, which ensures comfortable work outdoors. Quick access to the brushes facilitates maintenance and repair of the device.
The maximum torque is 300 Nm, engine power is 350 W. The five-meter cable does not interfere with the worker’s movements. The chuck has a diameter of 1.2 inches, making it compatible with the most common equipment.
Advantages:
- durable body;
- long service life;
- reverse function;
- long cable;
- ease of maintenance.
Flaws:
- heats up during operation.
Bison ZGUE-350 is worth purchasing for professional builders and installers who work year-round, including outdoors.
Crown CT12018
4.8
★★★★★
editorial assessment
89%
buyers recommend this product
The reverse function makes it easier to unscrew stuck and damaged nuts. The metal case is not afraid of difficult operating conditions, scratches or falls. Convenience of working away from a power outlet is ensured by a 5 meter long cable. The snap lock ensures reliable fastening.
The maximum torque is 320 Nm, spindle speed is up to 2100 rpm. A special feature of the impact wrench is the increased motor power of 900 W. This expands the range of its applications and allows you to confidently tighten large diameter nuts.
Advantages:
- high torque;
- durable body;
- long service life;
- long cable;
- reverse
Flaws:
- lack of speed control.
The Crown CT12018 is recommended for the toughest jobs. An excellent tool for use on a construction site, in a car service or workshop.
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Impact mechanism type
First of all, the buyer should be interested in this parameter, which sometimes may not be indicated by the manufacturer. A special feature of the pin clutch mechanism is the presence of a long nose, which has the shape of a cone. The same specificity is typical for rocking dogs. The difference is that the pin clutch mechanism has many small components.
Therefore, the material from which they are made must be of very high quality and wear-resistant. Thanks to its action, the impact action in the impact wrench is softened, and vibration is also reduced while maintaining the required torque parameters.
The rocking dog technology is simpler and less demanding on the materials used in the manufacture of parts. It is used in inexpensive models, but is characterized by increased noise and vibration.
The pin less system occupies an intermediate value in terms of technical characteristics. It is also simple to use, but does not create large vibrations. But the twin hammer and jumbo hammer mechanisms have the highest level of torque.
They are used in industrial tools that regularly experience increased loads during operation. This type of impact driver will vibrate a lot and adjusting the torque during impact is difficult.
Maintenance Rules
In order for a practical and very reliable tool to last as long as possible, it is necessary to follow the rules of operation and maintenance of such equipment.
- cleaning and diagnostics of the impact wrench;
- replacing lubricant;
- checking electric motor brushes.
When purchasing, you must check the completeness of the set and the presence of all certificates and warranty documents
Maintaining the technical characteristics and flawless operation of the impact wrench is also ensured by proper air preparation using a special filter, a pressure regulator and an oil sprayer, and the use of exclusively high-quality lubricants.
It is advisable to entrust the repair of complex breakdowns of the gearbox and gears due to wear or excessive loads, failure of the impact mechanism and reverse function, and the elimination of damage to the spindle, start button or chuck, to professionals. In addition, it is specialists who should deal with any failures in electronic monitoring or control systems, malfunctions of the charger or network device, as well as noticeable damage to the housing.
A screwdriver can also come in handy at home. What types of tools are there and how to choose the right one, you will find out in our article:.
Torque parameters
The high level of this performance characteristic reflects the tool's ability to handle large nuts and screws that are heavily rusted. If you try to use it when manipulating small screws, you risk deforming and removing the head. The torque value must correspond to the diameter of the nut:
- for nuts of class less than M12, a tool with a maximum torque of 100 Nm is sufficient;
- nuts not exceeding M18 require a parameter of 250-300 Nm;
- unscrew or tighten M20 screws, as well as carry out tire fitting operations and unscrewing rusted structures, it is advisable to use a tool more than 600 Nm.
The ability to adjust the torque for specific purposes and designs is especially welcome.
Features of the cartridge
For different types of nuts having a certain diameter and shape, a separate type of cartridge is intended. Torque parameters are also taken into account. It would be useful to equip it with additional adapters or universal cartridges.
A small-power tool is equipped with a quarter-inch hexagonal type. You can manipulate with cross bits in the range of 1-3 and nuts up to M12. Impact driver bits require a 3/8-inch chuck, while M8-M20 nuts require a half-inch square chuck.
Inch or ¾-inch square models are often used in manufacturing, when working with metal structures or trucks.
Pneumatic
Impact wrenches operating on compressed air are practically not used in everyday life, since in addition to the tool itself, you need to purchase a compressor. These units are most often used in the professional field.
Wurth DSS1/2″
This is a premium air tool. This tool has a hammer mechanism; four positions for adjusting the tightening force; torque for loosening is 1321 Nm, and for tightening - from 60 to 835 Nm, chuck type - ½ inch.
To operate the impact wrench, only prepared air without impurities is required, that is, well purified and saturated with oil vapors. For these purposes, an air preparation unit (air preparation unit) and an oil sprayer are used, which is connected at the inlet of the tool. The oil sprayer enriches the air passing through the tool with oil vapors intended to lubricate the mechanical part of the unit.
So, if you need a powerful, reliable, low-noise pneumatic tool, then your choice of impact wrench can be completed with this model. It’s not for nothing that this unit is often used as a tire changer in car service centers.
- high torque;
- torque adjustment has 4 positions;
- convenient reverse switches located on the back of the device, which can be switched with one hand;
- the unit is not noisy;
- The handle is made of a material that prevents the tool from slipping.
- requires the use of a BPV;
- installation of an oil sprayer is required.
YATO 1/2 YT-09540
This is an air gun that has also proven itself to be a reliable and powerful tool.
The unit has: torque 1150 Nm; ½ inch square chuck; 10000 rpm; weight 2.02 kg. There are 3 positions for adjusting the twisting force, and 2 for unscrewing. Effective operation of the tool is possible at a pressure of at least 0.63 MPa.
The impact wrench is most often used in car repair shops for car wheel nuts.
- torque;
- torque adjustment;
- ergonomic handle;
- high speed.
- not recommended for use without GSV;
- An oil sprayer is required for this to work.
Features of choosing a tool
If you want to decide how to choose a screwdriver with maximum efficiency, you need to focus on the scope of its application.
You can assemble compact structures for a summer house and garden, for example, when installing equipment on a children's or sports ground, using a battery model. For such purposes, little torque is required. It is better to choose a half or quarter inch cartridge. Car enthusiasts need more powerful equipment. Therefore, choose models with a torque of at least 250-800 Nm. The chuck should be half an inch. Units with on-board power supply are inexpensive, but will be convenient on the road.
If you are working with large fastening bolts, then you cannot do without a powerful impact wrench. For work in hard-to-reach areas, angle wrenches are used, for which a square shank of the required size is selected.
Screwing or unscrewing a bolt will not require much effort if you use universal impact wrenches. This is a high-quality and reliable tool that will become assistants to masters in many situations.
