What Is an Air Impact Driver?
An air impact driver (pneumatic impact driver) is a pneumatic tool for tightening and loosening screws using compressed air from an air compressor as a power source.
The hammer is rotated by an air motor, and the rotational force of the hammer is converted to impact force. The hammer strikes the anvil (rotating shaft for tightening and loosening) and applies impact to generate a strong tightening and loosening force.
Air impact drivers are very useful in screw-tightening operations where human power is inadequate.
Uses of Air Impact Drivers
Air impact drivers are used in a variety of locations, including construction sites and maintenance shops. Since they are powered by compressed air from an air compressor or other source, their rotating parts generate less heat than electric motors, making them suitable for continuous work.
Specific examples of use are as follows
- Assembly of aluminum sashes
- Maintenance around engines
- Fixing hardware at construction sites
- Installation of car accessories
- Assembly of woodworking products
- Tightening and removing screws for parts on production lines
Features of Air Impact Drivers
Advantages
1. Superior Durability
Compared to electric tools, the simple structure makes it difficult to break and easy to maintain.
2. Compact and Easy to Handle
Many air impact drivers are smaller and lighter than electric screwdrivers of equivalent capacity. They can also generate high torque for sufficient screw tightening.
3. Less Hazardous Because They Do Not Use Electricity
Air impact drivers do not use electricity when in use, so there is little risk of electrical leakage or electric shock. Another important feature is that they do not produce sparks, making them suitable for work at gas stations and other sites where fire is strictly prohibited.
Disadvantages
1. Need to Be Careful Not to Over-Tighten
Since air impact drivers do not have a clutch, the tightening force must be adjusted by pulling a lever or switch. Excessive tightening force may cause damage to the screw head or cracking of the workpiece to be tightened, so care is required.
2. High Installation Cost
Air impact drivers require an air compressor as a power source. The disadvantage of air compressors is that they are expensive, costing 150,000 to 300,000 yen per unit, making them expensive to install. However, since air tools are less likely to cause problems than electric tools in some respects, you may want to consider purchasing one if you intend to use it for the long term.
3. High Noise Level
Noise during use is loud and can be a problem in some environments. Before purchasing, it is necessary to check the installation location and noise level.
Types of Air Impact Drivers
The shape and starting method of air impact drivers vary from product to product. It is necessary to select the appropriate one according to the working environment and purpose.
1. Classification by Shape
Pistol Type
This is a general-purpose shape that can work in multiple directions, such as upward, downward, and sideways, and is widely used in a variety of settings, such as job sites and automobile repair shops.
Straight Type (Pen Type)
The body is straight and the anvil faces downward, making it suitable for tightening and loosening screws, such as in assembly and disassembly on production lines.
Angle Type
The anvil is angled at 90 degrees to the main body, so it is used when it is difficult to work with the pistol type or straight type.
2. Classification by Starting Method
Starting Lever Type
Air is supplied to the air motor when the starting lever is pushed to start rotation.
Push Start Type
Air is supplied to the air motor when the bit is pressed against the screw to be tightened, and the air motor rotates. No need to keep pressing the lever.
Lever-Push Start Type
This system is a combination of the start lever type and push start type. Air is supplied to the air motor when the starting lever is pushed, and the bit rotates when the bit is pressed against the screw.