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An impact wrench is a tool used to firmly insert fasteners such as nuts, screws, and bolts into the recipient material using a rapid hammering action. This is a very versatile tool whose applications range from constructing steel buildings to changing vehicle tires. This is also a popular tool, as it is a practice nowadays to use threaded fasteners in building constructions instead of nails and rivets, as the former offers greater strength, durability, and much greater withdrawal resistance. The impact wrench increases both efficiency and productivity by speeding up a process that would otherwise take a long time, if every nut was to be screwed in manually. Considering the number of instances where fasteners are used, this tool helps to save time as well as energy for the operator. Impact Wrenches are used by carpenters, masons, plumbers, and other skilled workers. At home too, this tool can have varied uses, and is a handy tool in many domestic tool kits.
Features and working of an impact wrench The impact wrench functions through the generation of torque through rapid to and fro vibrations of numerous tiny Hammers within the tool. This torque provides the force necessary to drive the fasteners tightly into the material. The magnitude of the torque is directly proportional to the size of the fastener and the density of the material. Impact wrenches are powered either through compressed air or by electricity. Those wrenches that work on compressed air, called pneumatic wrenches, are connected to air tanks that contain the pressurized air. When the tool is started, this air is released into the tool to initiate the hammering action. In the case of electric wrenches, the tool most often works through electromagnetism, created through the passage of electricity. The source of electricity can either be through a power cord connected to a power supply or a rechargeable battery contained within the tool. Cordless wrenches have Rechargeable batteries, and are therefore, completely portable and can be used in the outdoors too. The torque generated by an average impact wrench is around 275 to 325 ft. lbs. providing a speed output of around 2400 revolutions per minute (rpm). This power converts into a final performance of approximately 3000 blows per minute (bpm). The voltage utilized varies between approximately 14.4 to 28 volts. Midrange pneumatic wrenches have an air consumption of around 4 cubic feet per minute (CFM), while higher end tools use around 9 CFM to give approximately 6000 rpm. Depending on the application, the size of the fastener, and the density of the target material, the user can change the speed of the tool with the variable speed switch. Further control is provided through a forward / reverse power regulator. The intrinsic gears in the tool are made of a heat treated alloy, while the gear case is made of magnesium, to increase durability of these constantly moving parts. The motor is cushion mounted to provide shock absorption from the vibrations. Power transmission efficiency is further enhanced through the incorporation of precision gearing and a ball and needle bearing infrastructure. An oil bath clutch in pneumatic wrenches offers a dual benefit of smoother performance with longer life. While the length of tool is around 1 foot, the weigh may vary between 11 to 26 pounds. What to look for in an impact wrench Considering the vibrations that a tool of this power could generate, it is mandatory that the handle has an ergonomic design with a soft padding, thus preventing fatigue and wrist strain for the user during prolonged usage. Also, the trigger and the other controls should be easily accessible when the tool is being used. A 360 degree side handle allows two-handed operation, increasing accuracy and stability. Most cordless wrenches have extra rechargeable batteries along with the battery charger. For better balance and tool handling when used in the upward direction or in areas not easily accessible, it is advisable to use a tool that incorporates a reversible battery pack, which is a battery that can be turned around to fit into a smaller space. Another factor to be considered with a tool having a motor and many moving parts is the noise emitted. Most impact wrenches have a maximum noise Level of around 90 decibels. Externally accessible brushes make the tool easily serviceable. Some reputed manufacturers of impact wrenches include Astro Pneumatic, Campbell Hausfeld, Chicago Pneumatic, Dewalt, Grip, Ingersoll Rand, Makita, McCulloch, Milwaukee, Performance, Porter Cable, and TD Industrial. Discuss this article on the forums. (0 posts)
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