If you are in the market for a new tool and do not know whether to purchase an impact driver or an impact wrench, the following article will talk you through their uses, their differences, and which is best for you.
Impact wrenches
Impact wrenches are used to help provide grip for tightening and loosening both nuts and bolts and pipes and fittings.
One of the main benefits of an impact wrenches are that they provide an incredibly high rotational torque, not able to be achieved by regular drills. This is all done with minimal exertion required from the user. This can come in particularly handy when dealing with rusted screws or fasteners. The high torque is what makes them the perfect tool to use for changing wheels during pit stops at the Grand Prix.
Whether you are an aspiring F1 mechanic, or you work in a local garage, an impact wrench works in the same way. A hammering mechanism in the wrenches’ motor is used to deliver quick and powerful blows. It is this immense amount of force that allows even the tightest nut to come loose.
By purchasing an impact wrench, you can make your breaker bar and ratchet wrenches redundant, saving you both time and effort when it comes to tightening and loosening bolts and fittings.
Depending on where you intend to use an impact wrench will determine whether you should purchase an air-powered or battery-powered wrench.Air-powered is more appropriate if you tend to work in a workshop, as you are unlikely to have easy access to an air compressor while working out.
Impact drivers
Impact drivers, similar to impact wrenches, are used to loosen nuts and bolts which cannot be done with a conventional screwdriver. Their motors generate a torque that is powerful enough to remove tough fixtures with relative ease.
These are smaller than impact wrenches and are more commonly used for DIY projects, as well as within the construction sector. They can come in very handy when assembling furniture at home.
If you are purchasing an electric impact driver, you will have the choice between corded and cordless models.
Which one is right for you?
The best way to determine whether to purchase an impact wrench or an impact driver is to consider what you intend to use it for.
An impact wrench is a specialist piece of kit, meaning it is generally not appropriate for day-to-day usage at home. However, because of its power, it can be very useful in a professional capacity. While you can use an impact wrench at home, you are more likely to cause damage due to its higher torque.
Before using any tools at home, it is important to research tool safety, as well as make sure you have all the necessary PPE equipment required to work safely.