How To Use An Impact Screwdriver
Overview
When To Use An Impact Driver
An impact screwdriver should be used on a flat or Philips head screw the moment you realise that the screw could be extremely tight, corroded, or seized in place. If you try a regular screwdriver first, there’s every chance you strip the head of the screw making it less likely that you’ll have success with an impact driver.What Do You Use An Impact Driver For
An impact screwdriver is used for screws which are excessively tight or have become seized due to corrosion over time. Such screws are often encountered in heavy machinery or automotive applications. By reaching for an impact screwdriver the moment you find the screw to be too tight; you greatly reduce the risk of stripping the screw head.The Benefits of Using an Impact Screwdriver Set
Using an impact screwdriver set offers several benefits, here are some of the key advantages:Steps
Select the correct bit
Start by choosing the bit which best suits the screw. Fit this to your impact screwdriver, then align the tool with the head of the screw.
Selecting the direction
With the tip of the impact screwdriver pushed up against the screw, apply firm pressure and turn the body of the tool counter-clockwise. The bit will remain steady, while the body of the tool will move about a quarter turn before stopping. If you wish to tighten a fastener, turn the body clockwise instead.
Apply Force
Apply some rotational force with one hand, and hit the impact driver firmly on the back with a hammer in the other hand. A few hits should see the screw break free for easy removal.
Remove the Screw
Once the screw has been loosened, use a screwdriver to remove it completely.
Tips
How does an impact driver work?
An impact screwdriver works by converting the force from a hammer strike into rotational force to loosen or tighten screws and bolts. When struck on its end with a hammer, its internal mechanism—usually consisting of springs, a cam, and a rotating mass—activates to translate this direct force into rotational motion. This allows the impact screwdriver to apply both rotational force and downward pressure, to prevent slippage and reduce the risk of stripping.What types of screws can I use an impact screwdriver set on?
The type of screws you can use your impact screwdriver set on largely depends on the bits included with your impact driver. Most impact screwdrivers will be supplied with a variety of Philips head and flat head screwdriver bits. However, it may also be possible to use torx, hex, square or security type bits with your impact screwdriver.Can an impact screwdriver set be used for tasks other than loosening screws?
An impact screwdriver is one of those tools which does one job and does it well. Having said that; it is possible to use your impact screwdriver to tighten screws too. Just rotate your impact screwdriver clockwise to engage the mechanism and tap gently with a hammer so as not to over torque the screw.Are impact screwdrivers suitable for delicate tasks or precision work?
An impact screwdriver is typically unnecessary for delicate tasks or precision work since smaller screws rarely need excessive torque to be loosened or tightened. Furthermore, the bits provided with your impact screwdriver are generally too large for working with precision screws, which require finer tools for accurate handling.*Important information* - Click here to read more about our How-To terms and conditions.