What Is an Impact Drill?
An impact drill is a tool that uses the force of vibration to drill holes in hard materials such as concrete or tile.
When one hears the word “drill,” one usually thinks of a drill that uses rotational force, but a vibration drill uses both rotational and vibrational force. This makes it possible to drill holes quickly and accurately, even in hard materials.
Uses of Impact Drills
Impact drills are used to drill pre-drilled holes into hard materials. Typical hard materials include concrete, stone, tile, and mortar.
The pre-hole is for a component called an anchor or plug, which is driven into the material to secure structural members or equipment. With a rotary drill, there is only the power to rotate, so no matter how hard you push, the force to drill through the hole is too weak to do the job.
Characteristics of Impact Drills
1. Not Suitable for Wood
Impact drills are tools for hard materials, such as concrete. It is not suitable for drilling holes in wood or metal. Since wood and metal are not hard materials, holes can be drilled only by rotation without using the vibration function. Therefore, rotary drills are more suitable.
2. There Are Different Types of Drill Bit Shafts
There are various types of drill bit shafts. If you do not carefully check the manufacturer of the impact drill, you are using and the installation opening, you may not be able to install the drill bit even after you have purchased it, and you may not be able to perform the work.
3. Different Products Have Different Functions
When using an impact drill, you need to hold it firmly, so some types are equipped with side grips. Holding it here allows you to grip it more firmly than the main unit, so you can work more precisely. There are also types that can be used as rotary drills with only the impact drill function turned off, as well as types with forward and reverse rotation functions.
How to Select an Impact Drill
When choosing an impact drill, there are four things to keep in mind:
1. Drill Hole Diameter
The most important factor in selecting an impact drill is the drill hole diameter. The maximum diameter is determined by the model. If you have a specific hole size that you want to drill, or if you frequently use a certain diameter, carefully check the catalog to see if it is compatible with your needs.
2. Blow and Rotation Speed
The specifications of impact drills are related to the number of blows and the number of rotations. A drill with a higher blow rate is a better drill. For materials that are prone to cracking or chipping, it is desirable to work with a lower blow rate and rotation speed.
3. Hole Diameter to Be Drilled
Impact drills are limited to drilling holes of 20 to 25 mm in diameter. If you want to drill a hole of a diameter that cannot be drilled with an impact drill, consider a hammer drill. This is because hammer drills are more powerful, can be used with a wide range of materials, and have larger drill bit diameters.
4. Corded or Rechargeable
Most impact drills have generally been corded, but recently rechargeable cordless types are also available. Rechargeable types are as powerful as corded types, and since they do not require a power supply, there are no restrictions on where they can be used, which can be expected to improve work efficiency. However, there are some disadvantages, such as the fear of running out of charge and the need to purchase replacement rechargeable batteries.
Other Information on Impact Drills
How to Use an Impact Drill
To start, select the appropriate drill bit before use. Not all materials can be used, and there are different applications for concrete, tile, stone, etc. If the drill bit is used for the wrong application, the hole will not be drilled. If the drill bit is used for the wrong material, there is a high possibility that the hole will not be drilled or the area around the hole will be chipped to pieces.
When actually using the drill, it is important to press it in more firmly than when using a regular drill and to hold the impact drill firmly. If you do not hold it firmly, the vibration of the vibration drill will not be transmitted properly, or the tool will shake and the hole will not be drilled.
The most important aspect of using an impact drill is the angle at which the drill is applied. If the angle is crooked, the hole will not be drilled straight, and the anchor or plug may be at an angle. For more accurate drilling, the recommended method is to use a straight drill to the desired depth by initially using a low rotation speed while accelerating the rotation as the hole becomes deeper.
After drilling a hole, it is necessary to clean up the hole with a blower, etc., because the hole is clogged with concrete and other powder generated during the drilling process.