Brands specializing in the production of mechanical tools offer a wide range of impact wrenches on the market. As a result, it is not always easy to define the ideal type of device that will allow for easy assembly and disassembly work. In order not to make a mistake when choosing, let's compare various types of impact wrenches available in the Autos network .
Different Types of Impact Wrenches: Learn Their Advantages and Disadvantages
Impact wrenches are tools widely used in industry, mechanical workshops and among DIY enthusiasts. They come in several different types, and each has its own specific advantages and limitations. Choosing the right impact wrench depends on the type of work you plan to do and your individual needs. On the opposite page, we present an overview of the most popular types of impact wrenches, analyzing their strengths, weaknesses and situations in which they work best.
A conscious choice for your workshop
Choosing the right impact wrench at Autos can make all the difference to your mechanical work and repairs. Whether you choose an air, electric or cordless model, it is crucial to carefully assess your needs and budget. Contact our colleagues in the Workshop Equipment Department and they will help you choose the right wrench for you and your workshop. Remember that regular maintenance and the use of the right accessories, such as impact wrench oil, are key to the longevity of your tool. It is worth mentioning that you should not use worn sockets - they will effectively take away Nm. With good practices and a little care, your impact wrench will quickly become an essential tool in your workshop, allowing you to tackle all mechanical challenges with efficiency and pleasure.
Regardless of which key you choose, remember that:
Pneumatic wrenches:
- require a working pressure of 6-6.5 Bar – which means that every compressor in the workshop must have a pressure reducer. Working at a higher pressure, e.g. 10 Bar, causes faster tool operation and blows out seals, causing a drastic drop in power,
- make sure to lubricate the wrench with oil for pneumatic tools,
- A hose with an internal cross-section of 8 or 10 mm will be suitable for use with your air wheel wrench.
Cordless wrenches:
- keep the place where the battery is attached to the tool clean – sand, dust or dirt can cause the plastic casing of the key to wear out and degrade it,
- always keep batteries charged in low temperatures,
- you will extend the life of the battery if you charge it to its full capacity (after almost complete discharge, e.g. 5-10%) rather than recharging it every time, e.g. when the battery level is 75%.
Wired electric wrenches:
- remember that each square reduction, extension, etc. reduces the power of the tool by up to 30%.
Pneumatic impact wrenches:
A:0082074 3/4" Reversible Impact Wrench
- Benefits: Impact wrenches are characterized by high power, which allows them to generate very high torque, ideal for demanding industrial and automotive applications. They are durable and reliable tools because their design includes fewer moving electrical parts, which reduces the risk of failure. An additional advantage is their lightness - thanks to the use of a pneumatic mechanism, they are generally lighter than their electric counterparts, which increases comfort and reduces the burden on the user during long-term use.
- Cons: First of all, they require an air compressor, which means additional investment cost and limits their portability. Additionally, the mobility of the tool can be hampered by the length of the air hose, which limits the user's freedom of movement. Another significant disadvantage is the noise generated during operation - air wrenches can be very loud, which may require the use of hearing protection, especially with longer use.
Corded Electric Impact Wrenches:
A:0461907 Electric wheel wrench
- Benefits: Electric impact wrenches offer convenience of use because they do not require an air compressor - they can be connected directly to a power source. This significantly simplifies work and eliminates the need to invest in additional equipment. An additional advantage is the constant power they provide during work, which allows you to avoid problems related to air pressure fluctuations characteristic of pneumatic tools.
- Cons: Limited mobility due to the length of the power cord can make it difficult to work in areas with limited access to electrical outlets or in spaces that require a lot of freedom of movement. Additionally, these tools are often less efficient than their pneumatic counterparts, which means they can have difficulty loosening very tight or rusty screws. They also rely on constant access to electricity, making them impractical for field repairs or in areas without easy access to electricity.
Cordless electric impact wrenches:
A:0418632 Cordless Impact Wrench 1"
- Benefits: Cordless impact wrenches are highly portable , thanks to battery power, which eliminates the need for cables or pipes, providing complete freedom of movement. They are extremely convenient to use and transport, making them an ideal solution for emergency services and all service work performed in the field. Additionally, thanks to the latest technologies used in batteries, they offer performance at a level that allows for the implementation of even more demanding tasks.
- Cons: One of the main cons is the limited battery life, which can affect the time of continuous use and require breaks for charging or carrying spare batteries. Additionally, due to the advanced battery technology, they are usually more expensive than their pneumatic or corded counterparts. Another downside is the weight - the presence of batteries makes these tools heavier, which can reduce the comfort of work, especially during longer use.
