An impact wrench is a tool designed to allow mechanics to apply high amounts of torque to a nut and bolt fastening in order to loosen or tighten the fastening with a minimum of effort. Impact wrenches have traditionally required a connection to an air supply in order to generate the necessary power required to apply the necessary force to tighten and loosen nuts properly. One of the latest developments in the market is the release of a high quality cordless impact wrench that does not need to be connected with an air compressor to gain power.
One of the biggest criticisms applied to traditional air guns is that they are quite an unwieldy tool to use – particularly in a restricted environment such as a workshop. An air gun or impact wrench has traditionally required a great deal of air pressure in order to give it the force needed to work properly, and this has meant it being connected permanently to an air supply or compressor, and having a large trailing air hose all the time.
With a cordless impact wrench, it is possible to entirely dispense with the air hose and air compressor, and give yourself the freedom to move around the workshop quickly and conveniently. Cordless tools are much easier to use and more comfortable. Rather than a stream of air, these tools work more like a traditional cordless drill and use a battery for power, although in order to apply the correct amount of torque to a bolt they do tend to have a great deal more control available.
Many manufacturers offer a range of cordless impact wrenches that are designed to suit every single user, depending on the budget and requirements if the individual. Most manufacturers produce a full range of tools to appeal to all individuals, from the cheap weekend tools designed for occasional use through to professional quality air guns that are destined for high levels of use every single day, and must be completely reliable.
Although the initial outlay for a cordless impact wrench often seems high when compared to traditional models, it is important to bear in mind that without the requirement for a full power air compressor, the total purchase price for the system is much lower, and more affordable to different people, making them accessible to home users.
Traditionally, despite offering a full range of tools, different tool manufacturers appeal to a different group of people. Manufacturers like Makita, despite their high levels of build quality and modern reliability are typically seen as being more driven towards the consumer market rather than more recognised toolmakers like DeWalt and Ingersoll Rand, which offer a much better reputation, and are traditionally the first choice for professionals.
Because Ingersoll Rand is renowned as the world’s leading air tool manufacturer, they have a reputation for producing the highest quality and most reliable air tools available. Their range of cordless impact wrenches is wide enough to allow for most uses to be covered, from automotive impact wrenches that are great for the workshop through to high powered industrial wrenches that can be used for heavy duty work in factories and other tough environments.
Ingersoll Rand has a constant policy of product improvement and research that allows them to pursue an ongoing development program. This means that IR air tools use new materials like titanium and advanced motors that are designed to make them even more reliable.
From professional quality tools like the StreetLegal ThunderGun 232TGSL, which is powerful enough for use trackside at a motor race through to entry level models like the 225 Impact Wrench, which are fine for the home mechanic, but still feature pro build quality, and reliability, Ingersoll Rand make a fantastic range of air tools that are suited to all purposes, and all users.
Jason has been in the construction equipment and industrial sales business for over 10 years. He owns and operates Red Hill Supply to better serve the automotive and industrial industries. -
Air Compressors
