Any prior experience with air tools will tell you that you need to know the precise PSI and CFM for the optimal performance of the tool. The case of pneumatic impact wrenches is the same. Hence, the need for every user to find out how many CFM an impact wrench needs arises.

 

Connecting the impact wrench to an air compressor and turning the pressure to the max will only end badly. The perfect amount of CFM will make sure that you get done with your work without hitting any hurdles. Not to mention, when it comes to impact wrenches the right CFM will also enhance the performance of the tool.

 

If there is one thing I have learnt, it is never to take any detail lightly when it comes to power tools. Therefore, I have shared the required amount of CFM needed for an impact wrench down below. Read this article thoroughly before picking up your pneumatic impact wrench.

How Many CFM Does An Impact Wrench Need?

Every model of impact wrench needs a different CFM. The detail below will help you understand the CFM required for your model.

What Does CFM Mean?

The term CFM stands for cubic feet per minute. It denotes the amount of airflow rate that any tool needs in order to function perfectly. Similar to other air tools, pneumatic impact wrenches also need a specific amount of CFM to operate. If you want your impact wrench to deliver the best results, then figure out the CFM it needs to run.

How Many CFM For An Impact Wrench

When it comes to impact wrenches and CFM, you can not put all of the models in a single category. Every model present on the market needs has its own separate CFM requirements. The general range is between 1 to 10 CFM, the former being the lowest and the latter being the highest for impact wrenches. The smaller models of impact wrenches need less CFM than the larger and professional-grade models.

Ideal CFM According To The Size Of Impact Wrench

As we know every model needs a different CFM to run, let’s talk about the specific needs of different models.

For ¼ Inch Impact Wrench

A ¼ inch impact wrench is the smallest size present on the market. Being the smallest, this size does not require high air pressure to function. Therefore, hooking it to an air compressor that offers 1 CFM or 1.5 CFM will get the tool to function smoothly. Connecting it to a 1.5 CFM air compressor will give you more pressure. So, if you need to work on a project that calls for more pressure, opt for the air compressor that offers 1.5 CFM.

For ⅜ Inch Impact Wrench

A ⅜ inch wide impact wrench needs a slightly more CFM than a ¼ inch one. As it is bigger, it requires more power to run. So, an air compressor that provides 2.5 CFM to 3.5 CFM will be perfect for a ⅜ inch impact wrench.

For ½ Inch Impact Wrench

A ½ inch model comes with a powerful motor and needs way more CFM to start functioning than the smaller impact wrenches. Anything less than 4 CFM will not fo for a ½ inch air impact wrench. You can also hook it to an air compressor that offers 5 CFM, but not more than this.

For 1-Inch Impact Wrench

Every owner of a 1-inch impact wrench needs to take out the big guns, as low CFM does not do anything for these models. They need a minimum of 9 CFM to start operating. An airflow lower than this will not work on these impact wrenches. You can also get your hands on air compressors that offer 10 CFM for your 1-inch impact wrench.

How To Figure Out The Required CFM For Your Impact Wrench?

Running pneumatic impact wrenches is no joke, so you need to figure out the precise requirements of your tool. There are two ways that you can play this, either take the word of every random on the internet or do the calculations for yourself. The points presented above apply to most models of impact wrenches. But from my experience, it is better if you make take the specific needs of your tools into consideration. A simple way of finding out the CFM needs of your impact wrench is to know the CFM ratings of your tool. Every tool comes with its own CFM ratings. Take that number and multiply it by 1.5 and you will know the exact amount of CFM that your air impact wrench needs. To play it safe, I’d recommend going a number higher than the calculated amount.

Conclusion

You can not run an impact wrench without knowing how much CFM it needs. The tool will either not function at all, or even if it does, there is no way it will deliver its best performance. Therefore, read the article above to find out how many CFM an impact wrench needs and then get an air compressor that fulfils the needs of your impact wrench.

 

A single round with an air impact wrench is enough for users to know the importance of pressure or in technical words PSI. There is no rocket science behind it as every model of impact wrench comes with its own PSI requirements. You just need to learn how many PSI are needed in general to run an impact wrench.

 

In the realm of pneumatic power tools, you can not witness the optimal performance of your impact wrench without adjusting the right pressure. Therefore, this step is pretty much unavoidable if you want to see flawless results with your air impact wrench.

 

Instead of leaving you to search for hours on the internet, I have shared all the knowledge that I could gather on PSI. In the article below you will find every bit of information that helped me learn how many PSI my impact wrench required, so hopefully, it will guide you too.

How Many PSI To Run Impact Wrench

The simple points stated below will make it clear to you how many PSI you need to run your impact wrench.

What Is PSI?

Before we dive into how many PSI you need to operate your tool, first let me shed some light on what exactly is PSI. PSI is an abbreviation of the term pounds per square inch, which basically means the amount of pressure. When you are working with air tools, such as pneumatic impact wrenches, you need to keep PSI and CFM in your mind. Adjusting the right pressure according to the requirements of your tool will take its performance to a whole new level.

How Many PSI For Running An Impact Wrench?

Despite the fact that every pneumatic impact wrench has its own requirements for PSI, there is a general range which applies to all models in the market. Air impact wrenches usually need as low as 90 PSI to a maximum of 135 PSI to function. The models that are smaller in size, and come with small motors are usually found at the start of the PSI range, while the ones with bigger and more powerful motors are present at the higher end of the PSI range. The more powerful and bigger the motor of an impact wrench, the more pressure it will need. 100 PSI is like a medium ground, as you can operate almost every model easily at 100 PSI. The PSI of an impact wrench and its CFM go hand in hand. So, while you are checking for an air compressor that delivers the required pressure, make sure that the CFM requirements are also met. Otherwise, the impact wrench will not function properly.

Importance Of Figuring Out PSI

As we have established that you need the perfect PSI for your impact wrench to function smoothly, let’s talk about the ‘why’ part. As a pneumatic impact wrench will run on airflow, it needs just the right amount of airflow and air pressure. Too low PSI may not even get the tool to function and too high may cause the motor of the pneumatic impact wrench to burn. Therefore, the manufacturers of every model list how much PSI that impact wrench needs to operate. When the users get an air compressor that meets the PSI requirement of the impact wrench, it does not only run the tool. Instead, with the perfect pressure, the torque of the tool will also take a boost. This means that the impact wrench will give its best performance and your work will be done more efficiently. However, this will only happen when the PSI requirement of the pneumatic impact wrench will be met.

Conclusion

Figuring out the PSI requirement of an impact wrench is the first thing that every user should do the moment they get their hands on the tool. Only at the perfect PSI can an air impact wrench perform exceptionally. Therefore, do not waste any more time and read the article above to find out how many PSI to run an impact wrench.

 

The beauty of an impact wrench is its ability to bust any stubborn nut. However, when the short cord of the tool does not allow the users to walk all the way to their project, frustration replaces giddiness. Situations like these make people wonder if they should have gone for a cordless impact wrench.

 

If you are one of those who questioned ‘are cordless impact wrenches any good’ at the time of purchase, then do not fret, you are not alone. I have also been in that boat, and from my experience, they are a handy tool. Especially, when you need to work away from your regular workstation.

 

No doubt, corded impact wrenches offer many benefits. However, there are still some things that cordless impact wrenches bring to the table that a corded model fails to. Needless to say, summing them all up in a quick and few words will be unjust. Therefore, read the article below to find out whether cordless impact wrenches are any good or not.

Are Cordless Impact Wrenches Any Good

Yes, cordless impact wrenches are an excellent tool, and the factors below will tell you why.

Cordless Impact Wrenches

As the name implies, cordless impact wrenches come without a cord. These models operate on batteries, which eliminates the heaps of wires and cords. Some models come with rechargeable batteries, while others have ones that need to be replaced once they complete their span. Cordless impact wrenches come in different sizes, similar to corded models.

What Makes Cordless Impact Wrenches Worth The Bucks?

I have often seen many novices question whether the absence of wires is the only difference that makes a cordless impact wrench worth the bucks. However, that is simply not true. There are many differences between the two. Some of them are so nifty that they make a cordless impact wrench a must-have in your garage. A cordless model yields many features that make it worth every last penny.

Portability

The first benefit of a cordless impact wrench that makes it worth the purchase is its portability. Due to the lack of a cord, a cordless impact wrench can be moved anywhere. Therefore, if the user needs to work away from their regular station, they can easily do that. Not to mention, the users also do not have to search for an electrical outlet close by in order to operate their tool. They can even keep it in their car trunk and take it wherever they go. So, even if they need the assistance of this tool on the side of a road, they can easily use it.

Comfortable Usage

When you eliminate heaps of cords and wires from a picture, you get hassle-free usage. Cordless impact wrenches can be used with ease anywhere around the house, garage or even off-road places. These models are operated on batteries, so all you need to do is press the trigger and voila. There is no need to bust out an air compressor or find a power outlet. The comfortable rubber grip that most models come with makes it even easier to hold these tools for a longer duration.

Easy Storage

Despite the addition of batteries to their bodies, cordless impact wrenches have a much smaller design than a corded model. Therefore, a cordless impact wrench can even fit into smaller areas, making it possible for you to work in compact spaces without any issues. The small design also makes storage of the tool easier.

Power

Even though a cordless impact wrench can not deliver as much power as a corded model, it still offers quite a lot. In fact, the power output of these models is enough to make them suitable for automotive work, and even many other jobs. The torque and power output of these models is quite impressive. So whether there is a larger vehicle that needs its bolts removed or any other machine, you always count on your cordless models to have your back. It may take a few seconds longer than a corded model, but it will always get rid of that stubborn nut for you.

Restrictions Of Cordless Impact Wrenches

As cordless models operate on batteries, they tend to weigh more than a corded impact wrench. The addition of batteries to the body increases the overall weight of these tools. Furthermore, the users need to change the batteries of their cordless impact wrenches after a while. Not to mention, cordless impact wrenches come with a hefty price tag dangling from them. Despite all of this, if you are someone who needs a tool for the road, then a cordless model is the one for you.

Best Models Of Cordless Impact Wrenches

Even with all of these amazing perks, investing your hard-earned money in the first model you see is folly. You need to go for the best cordless impact wrenches to avail all the above-mentioned advantages.

DEWALT DCF899HB

The DEWALT DCF899HB comes with a hog ring anvil of ½ inch size. The brushless motor combined with the lithium-ion batteries is capable of delivering a maximum of 700 ft/lbs of torque. The best feature of this model is that it comes with 3 different speed levels that can be adjusted easily.

Ryobi P261K

This model of Ryobi comes bearing ½ inch anvil size making it ideal for various jobs. In addition to that, the manufacturers have also added rechargeable batteries along with the charger into the package. The 300 ft/lbs torque output of this model makes it ideal for various jobs.

 

Conclusion

A cordless impact wrench is quite a handy tool as it comes bearing many amazing perks. However, due to a few restrictions, these models may not be ideal for every user out there. Therefore, if you are questioning whether a cordless impact wrench is any good, then first you need to read the article above and decide after that whether these tools meet the criteria of your needs.

 

Trying to tighten a bolt and accidentally cracking it in half with the sheer force of your impact wrench is nothing short of a nightmare. It is the result of not paying close attention to the maximum torque output of your impact wrench and the bolt that you were working on.

 

This kind of situation makes a person question whether their impact wrenches have torque settings that they can tinker with. Unfortunately, not all impact wrenches come with proper torque settings control. But, this does not imply that you can not adjust the torque output at all.

 

Despite the absence of proper torque settings control on most models, there are a few tricks that can help in adjusting the torque output. The article has every bit of information on the torque settings of impact wrenches. It also sheds light on how you can gain control of the torque output without any settings control feature.

Do Impact Wrenches Have Torque Settings

The answer to the million-dollar question ‘do impact wrenches have torque settings’ is both a yes and a no. Find out the detailed explanation below.

Torque Settings On Impact Wrenches

The torque settings adjustment feature of an impact wrench is quite a nifty one. It allows the users to adjust the torque output of their impact wrench. So, they can easily alter it according to the size and condition of the nut, or bolt they are working on. However, most of the models that you will find in the market lack this amazing feature. There are only a handful of impact wrenches that allow their users to adjust the torque settings. The Milwaukee 2769 is one of those few models that have a torque settings feature.

Lack Of Torque Settings

This goes without saying that not being able to alter the torque of your impact wrench can lead to damaged results. The tool can apply too much force and break the nuts or bolts in half. It can also tighten them beyond their capacity, and this is just the tip of the iceberg. Without being able to adjust the torque, it can become quite difficult to use an impact wrench.

Adjusting Torque Without The Settings

If you are one of the unlucky people who have an impact wrench that does not have torque settings, do not fret. There is a solution for everything, so there are a few ways to adjust the tightening torque of your tool even with the lack of the proper settings. For most of the methods of adjusting torque without the settings, you will need to get attachments for your tool.

First Method

The first method of altering and controlling the torque output of your impact wrench is by using an air regulator. This is suitable for the air impact wrenches that operate on air compressors. You can install this regulator between the impact wrench and the hose connecting the tool to the air compressor. With the regulator, the users are able to control the amount of compressed air that goes to the impact wrench. Therefore, by controlling the air level, they can decrease the torque output of the impact wrench.

Second Method

The second method uses a little attachment called torque sticks. As their name implies, these are small sticks that can be added to the impact wrench to gain control of the tightening torque of the tool. Torque sticks come with different torque output levels. So, you can pick one that goes perfectly with the bolts or nuts you need to work on and according to the maximum torque output of your impact wrench. When this attachment is added to an impact wrench, it keeps the torque output in check. Once the nuts or bolts get tightened and reach the torque level of the stick, it stops adding more force onto them. This is a great way to control the torque of your impact wrench.

Third Method

The third and last method of gaining control over the torque output of your impact wrench uses another small attachment called a torque limiter. This attachment needs to be added between the socket of the impact wrench and the anvil. Similar to other attachments, the addition of a torque limiter minimizes the torque output of an impact wrench to a great extent. Therefore, there is no chance of over-tightening of bolts or even any cracked nuts.

Fourth Method

If you are unable to get any attachments or simply do not want to invest in them, then there is a solution for that too. There is a way for controlling the torque output of your impact wrench without any external help. Every model of impact wrench comes with a speed control button. You can use that to your advantage and adjust the speed of the tool to control the torque. In addition to that, you can also control the torque output via the trigger button of your impact wrench. If you press it too hard and too fast, it will apply more force. However, pressing it down gently and slowly will limit the torque output.

Conclusion

Torque settings control is a critical feature as it allows users to remain in control of the torque output of their tool. However, more than half of the models that you will spot on the shelves lack this specification. Lucky for you, every morsel of information that is even remotely related to torque settings of impact wrenches has been shared in the article above.

 

Purchasing the best pneumatic impact wrench is a good investment, especially if you are planning on using the tool often. However, if you are not aware of how the tool works, then this investment will do you no good. To take proper advantage, you need to know how a pneumatic impact wrench works.

 

When it comes to pneumatic impact wrenches, you can not rely on your information on cordless or electric impact wrenches. The procedure of a pneumatic model is quite different from the two. For starters, it needs a large air compressor for the tool to start functioning.

 

I have come to your rescue, so do not give up on your pneumatic impact wrench just now. Everything that my experience with the tool and my research taught me about it has been shared in detail in the article below. Therefore, close all those search browsers and read this article carefully.

How A Pneumatic Impact Wrench Works

The points below will describe in detail how a pneumatic impact wrench works.

Pneumatic Impact Wrench

A pneumatic impact wrench is also known as an air impact wrench as it gets powered by air.  Instead of electricity, the motor of this type of impact wrench gets powered by compressed air. The tool is connected to the air compressor with the help of an air hose. The users can use an air hose of any length or thickness. Similar to electric impact wrenches and cordless ones, pneumatic impact wrenches also come in different sizes. In addition to that, it is also available in various weight ranges.

How Does It Work?

A pneumatic impact wrench works on compressed air. The tool is connected to the air compressor with the help of air hoses. The length of the air hose depends upon the user and how far they are going to place the air compressor. Once the pneumatic impact wrench is connected to the air compressor with the right hose, the air pressure is turned on the air compressor.

 

Once the compressor is turned on, the compressed air reaches the motor of the tool and powers it. When the motor gets power, it forwards that force to the head of the impact wrench. So, the head starts moving and the anvil starts rotating rapidly in the chosen direction. A pneumatic impact wrench applies more force on the stubborn nuts than a cordless impact wrench or even a corded impact wrench. This makes it ideal for professional-level users.

Benefits Of A Pneumatic Impact Wrench

The major benefit of a pneumatic impact wrench is that it applies higher torque and force on the nuts and bolts. Therefore, contrary to other types of impact wrenches, the applied force of these models is unmatched. This leads us to the second benefit of pneumatic impact wrenches, they get rid of stubborn nuts more quickly than cordless impact wrenches.

What To Keep In Mind While Using A Pneumatic Impact Wrench

The first thing that every user should keep in mind while using this tool is to always turn the air compressor off before connecting it to the impact wrench. If this factor is not considered, the tool can go from a blessing to a hazard real quick. In addition to that, make sure that you hold the impact wrench steadily over the nuts. It is best if you use both hands while holding the tool.

 

Moreover, never use a high torque tool such as a pneumatic impact wrench without wearing the proper safety gear first. Always wear eye protective goggles, and ear muffs for noise cancellation. After using the tool, always disconnect the air hose after you have turned the air pressure off from the air compressor.

Conclusion

A pneumatic impact wrench is a handy tool but only if you are aware of how it works and use it the right way. Otherwise, you have got dead weight in your hands. To save you from wasting hundreds of bucks and your precious time, the article above has been devoted to discussing how this tool works. You will also find other information regarding a pneumatic impact wrench.