Do you frequently work around the house? Or are you a DIY enthusiast? We have the perfect short cut to make things easier; Impact driver. Yes, knowing how does an impact driver work, is going to be a life-saver for you.

You can thank us later!

How Does an Impact Driver Work – Gone with The Wind!

They are used to drive screws faster than any other tool you will find. Surprisingly, this is the only function it has. Sounds like a drill, doesn’t it?

Confused! Don’t be! It is nothing like a drill!

Let’s look at it in detail.

When to Use Impact Driver VS Drill?

Before we go ahead and see when we can use a drill vs impact driver, we need to understand the difference between the two.

1. Power – Driving Force

Undoubtedly, the main difference between the two tools is the power they exhibit. An impact driver is much, much faster when it comes to driving screws in.

But, how?

The release shanks are super quick. So much so, that they easily draw in large wood screws. This is because of the high rotational force. Hence, impact drivers are powerful tools.

2. Torque – The More, the Merrier!

Another key difference is the torque each has. Comparatively, drills have less torque as compared to impact drivers.

Moreover, the internal mechanism of the driver allows almost 50 “impacts” in a minute. This means you can get 50 screws done in 60 seconds.

Simply, WOW!

3. Pattern – Working Mechanism

The way it works is different from a drill. Moreover, it follows a 1 step backwards and 2 steps forward pattern. Thus, increased efficiency in screwing!

4. Size – Yes, It Matters

Unlike drills, impact drivers are small and compact. Consequently, they are easier to work with.

5. Force – Ouch! It Hurts

With an impact driver, the force of it does not come back to you. All the force is applied and absorbed by the screws.

On the other hand, when talking about drills, all the pressure comes back to your arm.

Haven’t you the arm of people drilling holes move violently?

Undoubtedly, this is because of the pressure that moves back up your arm. Consequently, your arm hurts after a while.

When to Use an Impact Driver?

In the following cases, using an impact driver will turn out to be a wise decision:

  • When you need to do the work quickly and neatly.
  • If you are working with longer screws. Moreover, you don’t want to waste time drilling them, an impact driver is an excellent alternative here.
  • In small workplaces. Reason being, the small and compact body of the driver.
  • For intense work which needs a lot of torque, power and speed.
  • Work for long durations. Because it doesn’t transfer the impact of the force on your arm and shoulders.

When to Use a Drill?

Similarly, there are certain instances where using a drill is a much better option. Following are those situations:

  • For a multi-purpose job that requires more than just putting in screws.
  • Unlike a driver that can only be used for hex-screws, a drill can be used for different types of screws.
  • Quieter than a driver.
  • When your job requires precision and accuracy.

So, now that you know when to use which tool, let’s look at how a drill driver works.

Let’s Torque (Talk) About It

How does an impact driver work?

Certainly, the name tells it all. They come with an “impact” function and that is what the foundation of the tool is all about.

Step 1: Switch it on

Firstly, you have to switch it on. Mostly, they are cordless but you can find corded ones also.

So, the first thing you need to do is switch it on. Now, when it turns on, the battery provides the power to the motor. Furthermore, it applies a rotational force to twist the hammer which is located at the end of the driver.

Consequently, this gives rise to compression.

Step 2: Tension

Do you know what happens after compression?

Yes, it needs to come back to the original form. Hence, compression leads to releasing the spring tension of the driller. As a result, the little hammer goes ahead and strikes the anvil with full rotational force.

BAAM! What an impact!

Step 3: 1,2,3, and it’s done!

Finally, it hits the collet with full pressure, torque and force. Therefore, the fastener turns. Not only does it turn, but the sheer force also makes it drive right through the material.

Safety Tips – Take 5 and Stay Alive!

Always remember to take out 5 minutes to ensure all your safety gear and equipment is in place.

After all, it is better to be safe than sorry, right?

  • Read the manual thoroughly. Sounds cliché? Well, it can be something that saves you from an accident. So, it is important to read all the instructions carefully.
  • Go clutter-free. Ensure that your workplace has no mess and only the items necessary for the job. After all, the more things around, the more the chances of an accident.
  • Charge and clean your driver beforehand. You don’t want any surprises before you start. So, it is important to clean the tool well before use.
  • Check the accessories. It is important to check if the accessories you attach to it are compatible. Otherwise, it can be life-threatening.
  • Wear safety goggles. It is imperative as something small debris can get in your eyes.
  • Use safety gloves to ensure your hands don’t get hurt. Here, it is very important to get the proper pair. Don’t go for a thick one as it can make working difficult.
  • Don’t wear baggy clothes. Reason being, you don’t want to get your clothes stuck in the driver, do you?

Maintenance Tips – Never Be A Fool, Inspect Your Tool

Following are some maintenance tips that will not only make your tool last longer, but can save you from some serious accidents.

  • After use, check the cords and sockets once. Repeat this step once again before you use the driver again.
  • Never leave it out in the sunshine for longer durations.
  • Ensure that you keep it in a dry, cool area where this is no moisture or dampness.
  • Always store it in the housing case or cover it comes with.
  • Don’t throw away the instruction’s manual.
  • Never attempt to work with a faulty tool.

Conclusion

Now that you know how does an impact driver work, you are ready to take on the DIY world by storm!

Surprisingly, this little machine can do wonders by cutting down your work time by more than 70% as compared to a regular drill.

So, what are you waiting for?

Happy Screwing!