A pneumatic impact wrench is a device that makes life easier for car service technicians, enterprise workers, and even people who like to spend their free time fixing their favorite “swallow,” and often they all buy themselves an impact impact wrench. How to choose the best option among the entire range of devices on the market? The TOP 10 models of air impact wrenches presented in the rating below will help you decide. We will also tell you what you need to pay attention to when deciding to purchase this device.
How to choose a pneumatic impact wrench for your garage
Any model of pneumatic impact wrench works on the same principle. Compressed air is supplied to the tool through a fitting through hoses. It comes from a compressor or a stationary pneumatic line. Under high pressure, the air drives the impact wrench rotor, which is connected to the spindle. The reverse function is designed to change the direction of rotation.
Main types of air impact wrenches
Each impact wrench is designed to perform specific tasks. If you choose the right model, the tool will be convenient to reach difficult places and productivity will increase. Based on their design, pneumatic impact wrenches are divided into two types:
- Direct. Externally, impact wrenches resemble the shape of a pistol. The spindle axis is parallel to the rotor axis of rotation, thereby increasing the torque.
Straight pneumatic impact wrench is used in easily accessible places - Angular models of impact wrenches have low torque. This is due to the perpendicular location of the spindle axis relative to the rotor axis of rotation. The tool creates greater force, due to which rusty nuts can be unscrewed.
Angle pneumatic impact wrench is convenient for working in hard-to-reach places
In addition to their design, impact wrenches differ in their operating principle. More precisely, this factor can be called a function that helps to better cope with problematic bolts. According to this parameter, the tool is divided into two types:
- Impactless impact wrenches only have torque. The tool is used for assembling and disassembling assemblies with new bolts. Due to the low force, the possibility of thread breakage is eliminated.
A hammerless impact wrench can be used to tighten hardware where precision and accuracy are required. - A pneumatic impact wrench works on a similar principle, but a series of frequent blows is added to the torque. At different stages of tightening the fasteners, they can be long or short. The tool creates the maximum impact peak at the final stage, due to which the reliability of the connection is improved or the problematic hardware can be untwisted.
Use an impact wrench to remove rusted nuts and bolts.
Attention!
Each type of impact wrench uses its own heads. Black attachments are suitable for percussion instruments, but simple ones cannot be used, as impacts will tear them. When choosing a tool with an impact function, you need to understand that not all of them work on the same principle. Impact mechanisms vary between impact wrenches. The most common are three types:
- Twin hammer means double hammer. The tool develops high torque at the start. Two impacts occur per spindle revolution. The mechanism is suitable for high loads.
- Rocking Dog creates one shock per spindle revolution. At the start, the tool develops an average speed. The mechanism is suitable for medium loads.
- Single ratchet is a ratcheting mechanism system. It is used in angle-type pneumatic impact wrenches. The mechanism is suitable for light loads.
It is not recommended to use the pneumatic impact wrench for purposes other than its intended purpose. The operating mechanism may fail or the fastener thread may break.
Torque
The parameter is considered the main one, since this is the power of the pneumatic tool. The measurement is calculated in Newtons/meter. The greater the torque, the more powerful the compressor is needed. This parameter requires special attention. If you buy a weak impact wrench, it will not cope with rusty nuts. The new fastener will not tighten properly. In the process, it will spontaneously disconnect. It is also impossible to choose a tool with a large margin. From overvoltage it will break the threads.
Important! A wrench with a torque of 1.5 to 3 thousand Nm is suitable for working with large fasteners. To remove and install the rims of a passenger car, a torque of 100 to 700 Nm is enough.
Spindle size
The knot is often called a landing square. The working heads are mounted on it. The more powerful the tool, the larger the spindle. The parameters are shown in more detail in the table.
Compressor compatibility
Each air impact wrench is designed for a specific air consumption. In addition, the tool needs to create the required operating pressure. Compatibility with a compressor is considered successful if it creates a pressure 2 bar greater than that required by the impact wrench. Productivity must be 20-30% more, otherwise there will not be enough air for work.
The compressor is selected compatible with the impact wrench in terms of performance and pressure
Tips and tricks
Some useful tips from professionals will help extend the life of your impact wrench:
- You cannot hold a pneumatic tool under pressure for more than 5 seconds if the hardware cannot be untwisted. This can cause the impact mechanism to fail.
- Soured, rusty hardware must be treated with a VD penetrating liquid before unwinding.
- It is not allowed to operate the impact wrench under pressure higher than that recommended by the manufacturer.
- The air impact wrench should not be hit, stored in a damp place or near fire sources.
It is optimal to use original cases for storage
When working in the garage, there is no need to throw the impact wrench under the wheels. During a collision with a car, there is a risk of deformation of the body.
How to choose a pneumatic impact wrench for trucks
Fasteners for large trucks. Contact with moisture causes them to rust and the threads to turn sour. To unscrew a wheel or disassemble another assembly, you will need a powerful pneumatic impact wrench. Choose a professional tool with maximum power and torque. A pneumatic impact wrench will cope with rusty nuts without stripping the threads.
Professional impact wrenches with maximum power and torque are used for trucks.
Rules for working with the tool
In order for the tool to have a truly long service life, the following operating rules must be observed:
- Before using the device, you must make sure that the supplied air is dry and enriched with special oil, which is often included. When using humid or unenriched air, the service life of the tool is noticeably reduced.
- The air volume must correspond to the data stated in the instrument passport.
- It is necessary to use only impact sockets to avoid premature shaft wear.
How to choose a pneumatic impact wrench for a car service
The functionality and parameters of the tool for a car service need to be expanded, since you will have to perform different tasks. A professional pneumatic impact wrench is required, but less powerful than for trucks.
Optimal parameters:
- Idling speed is closely related to the power of an air impact wrench. The optimal parameter is from 3 thousand rpm.
- For service stations, the tool must have a torque of 1.5 to 2.8 thousand Nm.
- Air flow – from 500 to 700 l/min.
A pneumatic impact wrench is always chosen with a margin of approximately 45% in all parameters.
For car service, professional pneumatic impact wrenches and battery-powered tools are used.
How does a wrench differ from a screwdriver?
A screwdriver is similar in structure and purpose to a wrench. However, there are still differences between these instruments. Let's look at the main differences:
- Impact wrenches have heavier dimensions. Screwdrivers are generally much lighter and smaller;
- The impact wrench advantageously has much greater power;
- Typically, screwdrivers have several capacities to work with.
A screwdriver is usually used in small repairs when constant work is not required. Impact wrenches are designed for large volumes of work, which is why they are used mainly by all professional builders.
Video - Why did you buy a wrench? Comparison with a screwdriver
How to choose a pneumatic impact wrench for tire fitting
To change tires on a passenger car, you don't need a powerful tool. A wrench with a minimum torque of 250 Nm will suffice here. However, it is optimal to give preference to a model with an indicator of 600 Nm. You can choose a pneumatic impact wrench of the same type for the garage and successfully use it at home.
Tire fitting requires a mobile tool, so cordless impact wrenches are often in demand
FAQ
Do you need a pneumatic impact wrench in the garage? Of course, many car owners will say that they lived for so long without so many tools in the garage and everything was fine, but with a pneumatic impact wrench life becomes much easier. Of course, in order to buy a pneumatic impact wrench, you need to carefully calculate all the characteristics of the compressor and evaluate the amount of work so as not to overpay for an overly powerful unnecessary model.
Which bolt tightening is more reliable - manual or with a pneumatic wrench? A pneumatic wrench saves both time and effort in the garage. Despite the fact that many argue that manually tightening bolts with a balloon is tougher, in fact, the issue of tightening simply depends on the correctly selected impact wrench.
Which air impact wrench to choose for the garage
It is convenient to carry out work in the garage with a pneumatic impact wrench, since the compressor is located nearby. Sometimes situations arise when repairs have to be carried out outside, somewhere on the street. The hose from the compressor will not be enough to reach the work site. This is where a cordless impact wrench comes to the rescue.
Rating of the best air impact wrenches
Tools powered by compressed air are considered more durable. If it is possible to connect to a compressor, then in the ratings you should pay attention to the best pneumatic impact wrenches of medium power.
Ombra OMP11281
Convenient, simple and reliable impact wrench. The advantage is the presence of torque adjustment in the range of 68-815 N/m. During operation, the noise level does not exceed 83 dB. There is a reverse. Ease of connection is provided by a quick-release fitting.
By adjusting the torque, it is convenient to adjust the pneumatic impact wrench to perform different tasks.
INFORCE PW 720
Another best air impact wrench will last for many years even when used in harsh conditions. The case has a rubber coating, due to which it passed a successful drop test from a height of 2 m. The internal location of the button prevents accidental start-up. Torque – 570 Nm, air flow – 142.5 l/min.
The pneumatic impact wrench is designed for a ½ inch chuck.
METABO DRS 68 SET ½
The compact impact wrench makes it easy to reach hard-to-reach places. Head height 55 mm. The tool is equipped with a 10 mm extension and a cardan shaft. The pneumatic impact wrench is designed for a working pressure of 6.2 bar and develops 175 rpm.
The cost of a pneumatic tool with a ½-inch spindle is about 5 thousand rubles
Rating of the best cordless impact wrenches
Along with pneumatic impact wrenches, battery-powered electric models are no less popular in the garage. Impact wrenches are less powerful, but convenient in terms of mobility.
Bort BAB-18I-LIDK
The model is considered budget, has a small torque of 250 Nm. Powered by an 18 volt battery with a capacity of 1.5 Ah. One charge is enough to loosen 40 and tighten 32 nuts. When idling, it develops up to 3.2 thousand rpm.
Battery charging time does not exceed 1 hour
AEG BSS 18C 12Z-0
The impact wrench does not include a battery or charger, but the model is popular. The tool develops torque up to 360 Nm. Powered by a 4 Ah battery with a voltage of 18 volts. When operating in pulse mode, it creates 3.2 thousand beats per minute.
When replacing wheels, install extended impact sockets
RYOBI R18IWЗ-0
The impact wrench is powered by an 18 volt battery, but you can buy it separately. The power tool develops torque up to 400 Nm. There is a three-level speed adjustment. Fasteners are tightened at speeds 1 and 2. In 1 minute, an electric impact wrench creates 3.2 thousand blows.
At idle it develops 2.9 thousand rpm
Makita DTW281Z
The durable electric impact wrench is equipped with a brushless motor. Maximum torque 280 Nm. There are 3 speeds. Powered by an 18 volt battery with a capacity of 4 Ah. Gives out 3.5 thousand beats per minute. At idle it develops 2.8 thousand rpm.
The manufacturer produces extension cords and heads for this model that expand the functionality of the power tool.
The best air impact wrenches
It is the presence of the impact function that allows you to deal with rusted fasteners. The rating of the best models will help you choose the right pneumatic impact wrench from this group. The tool is suitable for garages and car repair shops.
JAI-1054
At idle, the pneumatic impact wrench reaches speeds of up to 7 thousand rpm. For normal operation, an air flow of 119 l/min is required. Maximum torque – 920 Nm, working torque – 780 Nm. Pneumatic tools are suitable for servicing complex and heavily loaded fasteners.
According to the level of performance, the model belongs to the professional class
Caliber PGU-16/310A
When choosing a pneumatic impact wrench for home use, you should take a closer look at the “Caliber” model. The tool has a torque of 310 Nm. For normal operation, it is necessary to create a pressure of 6.3 bar and provide an air flow of 114 l/min. Develops up to 7 thousand rpm.
The model is equipped with an air supply regulator
Fubag IWC 1300 1/2
The model is in demand in conditions of intensive repair work. Heads ranging in size from 10 to 27 mm are suitable for a ½ square. Double hammer impact mechanism. There is a power regulator that switches 3 operating modes. The friction ring allows you to quickly change heads.
The model is equipped with a noise absorption system
Top 5 best air impact wrenches of 2022
This group includes the best models used to service passenger cars and trucks. Impact wrenches are powerful, durable, and can handle a large volume of work.
Metabo DSSW 2440-1
The model is considered the best when it comes to servicing freight vehicles. The double impact mechanism allows you to cope with complex fasteners and rusty nuts. Convenient operation is provided by two handles. The extended spindle is useful when you need to reach a nut in a deep rim.
The weight of the tool is 7.3 kg, but it fits well in the hands thanks to the comfortable handles
Licota PAW-06025-8
When it comes to tire fitting, it is better to buy a pneumatic impact wrench from Licota. The model is considered industrial. The air outlet is arranged downwards. Weight 4 kg. It is convenient to work with a pneumatic impact wrench for a long time, without getting your hand tired.
The cost of the best model for tire fitting is about 36 thousand rubles
TOPTUL KAAJ2480
The impact wrench does not have an impact function. Suitable for home use. You can unscrew small fasteners without signs of rust or souring of the thread. The pistol is lightweight, weighing only 2.4 kg. The hand will not get tired from long work.
The pistol body is made of composite materials
Fubag IW720 (100193)
Continuing the review of pneumatic impact wrenches, it is worth paying attention to another model for household use. A special feature is the presence of a shock function. Sold in a case with a set of heads. Pneumatic tools are indispensable in the garage; they can handle rusted nuts and bolts.
The cost of a garage assistant is about 3.5 thousand rubles
FUBAG IW900 100194
The impact type model has compact dimensions and light weight. A pressure of 6.3 atm is required for operation. Maximum air flow 360 l/min. Torque 880 Nm. The spindle at idle speed develops 7 thousand rpm.
The model is in demand in car services
Vote
Which air impact wrench did you choose?
AMT AIW 195180
6.33 % ( 5 )
Licota PAW-04048
29.11 % ( 23 )
Jonnesway Jai-1054
13.92 % ( 11 )
Aist 90141360
7.59 % ( 6 )
Fubag IW 720 (100192)
5.06 % ( 4 )
Ombra OMP 11212
12.66 % ( 10 )
Fubag IW 900 (100195)
15.19 % ( 12 )
Kraft KT-707003
5.06 % ( 4 )
Fubag PW 158/312 (100109)
1.27 % ( 1 )
Choosing a compressor for your home
Need help choosing the best air compressor for home use? So, now there are many different types of air compressors, and is it difficult for you to determine which type or brand of compressor is the best for you?
In this article, we'll look at a number of considerations you should make to determine which compressor is best for you. If you will be using it as an industrial one connected to an air system that handles multiple air tools, the tips in this article will help you make the best decision on what kind of air compressor you need.
What productivity do you need from a compressor? What you should do is look at the pumping performance in the specifications of the various models available to determine the size you need. If you intend to use it regularly with tools that need a lot of air to keep them working, then you need models with a pumping capacity of at least more than 10 kg/year.
To determine which compressor is needed, you need to know the required air flow for the tool. Choose a compressor with 1.5 times the power required for the tool. For example, if you are going to run an impact wrench that needs 10 kg/year to operate properly, then you should choose an air compressor that is capable of generating 15 kg/year of air volume at 1 atm pressure.
What will it be used for? If you only need a compressor for home use to perform small tasks such as inflating tires and occasionally pressurizing inflatable equipment or running pneumatic tools that only require short blasts of air, then choose one of the small portable models available.
Of course, if you want to use it for large jobs around your home, especially if you are going to be doing work that moves it around, such as running pneumatic tools or spray guns, then you need to choose an electric one that is capable of generating an air volume of 150 kg/year.
How often will you use? If you are going to use it occasionally, choose a model with an electric motor, at least one with a 220V motor that can be plugged into a standard outlet. However, if you are going to use it frequently, at least about 4 times a month, then choose a compressor with good oil lubrication, a cast iron pump, direct drive from an electric motor and no less than a 30 liter receiver.
For you who intend to use the compressor more than 4 times every month, choose a model with an electric motor and a belt driven iron pump. Be prepared to connect the proper wiring. They have at least a 380V output, so make sure there is proper power.
How will it work? You have several options when it comes to how your compressor operates. There are some that work directly with electricity or those that run on fuel. If you intend to use it around the house or in the garage, a workshop powered by electricity is most suitable. However, if you want to use it in the field or around the garden, then the ICE model will be better.
Both types are reliable and can work with a variety of tools. Of course, which is the best air compressor brand, model, and type really comes down to personal choice.
How much are you willing to spend? In this tough economy, we are all looking for ways to save money and buy a good quality air compressor that will last as long as possible. By making your choice and taking the advice in this article, you should have a better understanding of how to choose the air compressor that will best suit your needs. Remember the saying "You get what you pay for."
How to choose a compressor for a garage
How to choose a car compressor? Instructions.
Review of popular models of electric compressors
Why does a compressor need a filter?
The air leaving the compressor must be clean, that is, free of various impurities that could damage the impact wrench. Not everyone knows that condensation forms in the internal space of the receiver during air compression. Also, oil may enter the receiver along with the forced air if the mechanical part of the unit is severely worn out. Oil, mixing with condensate (moisture), takes the form of an emulsion and enters the instrument through a hose connected to it. This emulsion can cause corrosion of all parts of the mechanical part of the unit. For this reason, service workshops often end up with impact wrenches filled with water and rust, with broken components.
In order not to bring the instrument to such a deplorable state, it is customary to install a filter-moisture separator on the compressor. Inside it there is a filter mesh made using special technology from bronze.
The air passing through the filter gives off moisture and loses all impurities that fall into the sump. Typically, the body of the dehumidifier is made of transparent material to monitor the amount of contaminants accumulated during operation.
The fact that the filter is dirty and does not provide the required air flow rate can be determined by a drop in the power of the tool. The impact wrench starts to work within normal limits in the first seconds, but then suddenly slows down and loses power. This fact is explained by the fact that the tool starts up due to the accumulated air in the hose, after which it becomes insufficient due to the low throughput of the clogged filter. In such cases, the filter is removed, washed in a solvent, and then thoroughly blown with air. In extreme cases, the filter has to be changed. It can be purchased at stores that sell pneumatic tools.
Power type
According to the type of power supply, impact wrenches are:
Electrical. These devices operate on a regular 220 V network. An electric impact wrench is convenient to use in your own garage for unscrewing wheel nuts and bolts. But at a service station, where the floor in the repair bay is stained with oil and gasoline, electric impact wrenches cannot be used in principle, as there is a risk of fire.
The main advantage of such devices over battery-powered and pneumatic ones is their relatively low price. If your budget is limited, then go for the electric model.
When choosing a device with this type of power supply, pay special attention to the length of the power cord, since when working with a car you will have to drag it throughout the garage. It is better that the cord is at least 5 m long. The Zubr ZGUE-350 has this, which is comfortable for unscrewing nuts up to 20 mm
The Zubr ZGUE-350 has one, which is comfortable for unscrewing nuts up to 20 mm.
Rechargeable. Battery-powered models have good mobility and ease of use, since you do not need to drag a power cord or compressor hose with you. The torque of these devices is also high, so particularly powerful models can easily cope with hub nuts of 32. Another advantage of battery-powered models is the presence of a brushless motor that does not spark during operation, so you can not be afraid to work in a room with an increased fire hazard.
The downside of cordless impact wrenches is the price. Moreover, both the impact wrench itself and the battery are expensive if purchased separately. It is better to take two batteries included in the kit, such as the Bosch GDR 120-Li.
Pneumatic. How to choose a pneumatic impact wrench? The pneumatic tool has all the positive properties of cordless and corded models. A pneumatic impact wrench is a powerful device that can easily tear off wheel bolts and nuts, and at the same time it is not a fire hazard. A pneumatic impact wrench is the best option for an automotive workshop. But it requires a compressor, which naturally increases the cost of its operation.
If this is not a problem for the workshop (since any service station has a compressor for inflating tires and connecting other pneumatic tools), then buying a compressor for the garage may hit your pocket a little. However, from experience we will say that on the farm a compressor will be useful in many other works (connecting a spray gun or sandblaster), so purchasing it will not be superfluous
Among pneumatic ones, we recommend paying attention to Jonnesway JAI-1114
So, which impact wrench is better to buy: electric or pneumatic? Let's put it this way: if your budget is limited, then take an electric one with a long cord and a torque of at least 150 Nm. If you need a powerful productive tool, then take a compressor model. But if you don’t have a garage and you often have to repair the car on the street, or for the purpose of disassembling it “in the field,” take a cordless impact wrench.
