Screwdriver or nutrunner what is the difference

Cordless wrench (selection and features of the tool)

Compact instrument, voltage dependent but mains independent. A cordless impact wrench can greatly facilitate any process associated with unscrewing and tightening threaded connections. What is good about this tool, what are the pros and cons, and what you need to know before buying. We will tell in this article.

Features of cordless impact wrenches

The main advantage of the cordless tool is its autonomy from the electrical network until the charge level runs out. The battery-powered impact wrench can be used independently of an outlet, but it pays for this mobility due to its limited operating time. Such a device will be very useful on long journeys, or for performing a small amount of housework.

The majority of cordless impact wrenches have less torque than their cordless cousins. If we compare network and cordless nutrunners from the same price category, then the latter will lag significantly behind in terms of tightening force and number of revolutions. Also, the cordless tool has a slightly higher weight than its mains counterparts, which falls on the battery.

screwdriver, nutrunner, difference

There is a division of nutrunners into 2 types of impact on fasteners: impact and non-impact. The cordless impact wrench includes special hammers in its mechanism that strike along the axis of rotation and increase the torque to the maximum. This mechanism allows you to confidently break off “boiled” nuts or tighten large connections. Impact wrenches have less torque and are used in more jewelry operations.

For tightening or unscrewing nuts in hard-to-reach places, a special angle cordless wrench is used. This tool has a somewhat specific design and a narrow scope. In most cases, the angle impact wrench is used in auto repair shops or industries.

Duration of work

Virtually every battery-powered impact wrench has a very limited runtime. Compared to the same screwdriver, a nutrunner with a similar battery will discharge much faster, since the tool itself consumes many times more electricity.

The average operating time of the cordless impact wrench varies from 10 to 20 minutes of continuous torsion with a load. The operating time depends on the voltage and capacity of the battery, as well as the power of the tool itself. For example: A 12 V, 2.0 Amp-hour Sparky wrench is enough to unscrew about 20 M12 nuts before the tool is completely discharged.

Tightened or unscrewed fasteners are also an important factor affecting the discharge rate. If you rip off rusty nuts or drive hex head screws into wood, the battery will dry out many times faster than from tightening along a clean thread.

Application area

The cordless impact wrench is used wherever high mobility is required or the presence of wires and hoses connected to the tool is unacceptable. In the automotive and manufacturing industries, pneumatic and hydraulic tools are popular for their power and durability. Cordless cordless impact wrenches are used in those works where stationary devices will be ineffective or simply inconvenient.

Most often, this type of tool is purchased by car owners. Mainly use a cordless wrench for wheel bolts and body repair. Many pragmatic car enthusiasts carry this tool in a car in order to easily and quickly change a wheel if necessary. For truck nuts, a more professional cordless impact wrench with a torque of 800 Nm or more is required. The cost of such a tool is usually measured in tens of thousands, so truck drivers usually use a manual wrench “meat grinder”.

Indicators of power and duration of work of modern models, allow you to use a cordless nutrunner for tire fitting and many works in the house or on the site. This tool will greatly facilitate the collection of a metal frame for drywall, will help to install a fence made of corrugated board and unscrew threaded connections even in the most inaccessible places.

Tool selection

Before buying a cordless impact wrench, the most important thing is to determine for what purpose this tool is being purchased. Do you need it for the assembly of metal structures, unscrewing wheel nuts on a car, or for small housework? The main thing is to understand which nuts have to be turned and how long the device should be in operation. Below is a list of the main factors to consider when choosing.

Chuck type. Affects the size of the fasteners that the wrench can turn. The most common size, which also allows you to loosen the wheel nuts, is a 1/2 inch square.

Battery type. When choosing between nickel-cadmium and lithium-ion batteries, the second option is best. Ionic batteries are more modern, they can be charged without reaching a full discharge, they are more durable and reliable. Their cost is higher than that of cadmium, but they are ideal for gluttonous wrenches.

Voltage and capacity. The higher these values, the more the wrench can tighten or break the nuts. Unfortunately, as the torque rises, the electricity consumption increases, so the ampere-hours should be higher. For an impact wrench designed to unscrew wheel nuts, an 18 volt battery with a capacity of 2 Ah will be sufficient.

Torque. The main factor in determining the tightening force of the nut. Measured in newton meters (Nm). To install ventilation, 50.150 Nm is enough, unscrewing the wheels of a passenger car may require from 200 to 400 Nm, and dismantling of old, rusty fasteners can only be obtained under a force of 600 Nm. Anyone who is thinking about which cordless wrench to choose for tire fitting, first of all, should pay attention to this characteristic.

Rotational speed. By definition, indicates the speed of twisting and unscrewing fasteners without significant resistance. This indicator does not accelerate the tightening or breakdown of a rusted nut, but it is worth paying attention to if you need a “nimble” tool.

Impact frequency. Determines the number of impacts made by the impact wrench per minute of operation. Directly affects the speed of breakdown and fastener tightening. On average, 2300 strokes per minute are sufficient for a confident wheel change.

Ergonomics and functionality. It is important that during operation the tool lies confidently in the hand and does not have a serious advantage in one direction. A plus will be a rubberized case, a built-in flashlight and a battery indicator. These factors are optional, but nevertheless deserve special attention.

Purpose and principle of operation

The main purpose of the tool is to tighten the nuts quickly and efficiently. Looking at the photo of a wrench, many users can note the external similarity with a screwdriver. There is a certain truth in this. However, the purpose of the tools is fundamentally different.

Impact wrenches in most cases have an impulse-type impact sleeve. In the process of work, blows are made in the direction of rotation. This mechanism functions as follows. Due to the action of the leading element, the chuck rotates.

The signal for its termination is the achievement of a certain threshold effort. The engagement between the driving element and the chuck ceases to act, with a stationary chuck, a revolution is made.

An impact occurs with a predetermined force on the cam related to the axis of the chuck. Since the driving element has a large mass, and also gains a high speed, due to the torque, the position of the nut changes.

The build quality of the percussion mechanism largely determines the cost of the product and its durability. In some models, this mechanism is disabled, and the tool works like a screwdriver.

Impact wrenches also have such an important parameter as torque. For this, the batteries used are capable of delivering the required current for a long time, which significantly increases their cost.

Unlike screwdrivers, the cordless nutrunner has a powerful discharge current. Therefore, their continuous operation time is much shorter. no more than 15-20 minutes. using one battery.

If in everyday life this tool is recommended to be used mainly in the garage, then for professional purposes the wrench is useful at service stations, in tire fitting points, when providing technical assistance, during industrial installation of metal structures, in factories.

Impact mechanism type

First of all, the buyer should be interested in this particular parameter, which sometimes may not be indicated by the manufacturer. A feature of the pin clutch mechanism is the presence of a long nose, which is shaped like a cone. The same specificity is typical for the rocking dog. The difference is that there are many small parts in the pin clutch mechanism.

Therefore, the material from which they are made must be of very high quality and wear-resistant. Thanks to its action, the impact action in the wrench is softened, and vibration is also reduced while maintaining the required torque parameters.

The rocking dog technology is simpler and less demanding on the materials used in the manufacture of parts. It is used in inexpensive models, while being distinguished by increased noise and vibration.

An intermediate value in terms of technical characteristics is occupied by the pin less system. It is also simple in the device, but does not generate large vibrations. But the twin hammer and jumbo hammer mechanisms have the highest torque levels.

They are used in industrial tools that experience regular increased loads during operation. This type of impact driver will vibrate a lot and adjusting the torque during impacts is difficult.

Torque parameters

The high level of this performance reflects the tool’s ability to handle large nuts and screws that are heavily rusted. If you try to use it when manipulating small screws, you risk deforming and removing the head. The torque value must correspond to the nut diameter:

  • for nuts of class less than M12, a tool with a maximum torque of 100 Nm is sufficient;
  • nuts not exceeding M18 require a parameter of 250-300 Nm;
  • unscrew or tighten the M20 screws, as well as carry out tire fitting and unscrewing rusted structures, it is advisable with a tool of more than 600 Nm.

The ability to adjust the torque for specific purposes and designs is especially welcome.

Type of food

The tool has various connection methods. from the mains, through the battery and with power from the car. The mains nutrunner is preferable if long-term continuous operation is planned, since 1-2 batteries may not be enough even for half an hour of work without interruption.

Fiam Pneumatic Screwdrivers and Nutrunners

The on-board type of the tool is convenient for transportation, mobile in use and does not depend on the battery charge. For rechargeable models, you need to pay attention to the number of batteries included in the kit.

Important technical parameters

When choosing a tool, you need to pay attention to the basic technical characteristics of the nutrunner. In this case, the instrument itself can be percussion or non-percussion type.

Screwdriver or nutrunner what is the difference

In the arsenal of many motorists, you can often find such a useful tool as a wrench. It can be used both in everyday life and in industrial conditions, becoming an indispensable assistant for car service specialists. How to choose the right unit and what are its features will be described in this article.

Brief content of the article:

Speed

This parameter determines the level of performance of the tool. It is associated with the number of shocks, due to the growth of which the vibration is reduced. A high maximum RPM is important for industrial models. For household tools, the presence of a gearbox with the ability to control speeds is appreciated.

Differences

The main difference between them is the adapter for attaching nozzles.

If the screwdriver has a keyless chuck that allows you to fix both the cylindrical shank of the drill and the hexagon of the bit, then the screwdriver is designed to only attach the bit and is not able to hold the drills. We can say that the screwdriver is a more specialized tool. It handles tightening of thick and long self-tapping screws more efficiently.

Another difference may lie in the principle of the screwdriver. The tool uses the principle of tangential impact. While the screw easily enters the surface, the tool rotates it quickly, and when more or less serious effort is required, it switches to a frequent blow.
Screwdrivers are often used when carrying out large volumes of stationary work, for example, in repair shops or service stations.

Screwdriver or screwdriver: which tool to choose and why

When carrying out construction or repair work, it is almost always necessary to fasten together various building materials, panels or structures.

This is often done with screws, bolts or screws. In this case, you cannot do without the appropriate tools. a screwdriver and a screwdriver. How do they differ from each other and what do they have in common??

Both of these tools are designed for screwing (or unscrewing) various fasteners and, in general, the principle of their operation is the same: the electric motor creates a rotational movement, and the planetary gearbox transfers energy from the motor to the spindle, on which the chuck of the screwdriver or screwdriver is fixed. Both of these tools can be operated both from the mains and from the battery.

Screwdriver or screwdriver

The main advantages of the screwdriver:

  • Works more efficiently with long and large screws or self-tapping screws.
  • High speed of driving medium screws into wood.
  • economical in terms of energy consumption for the operation of the network option.
  • Versatility. Allows you to fix the drill with a cylindrical shank.
  • Multiple speeds.
  • On average, lower cost.

The choice of these instruments in trading networks is wide enough.

In general, it is rather difficult to give an unambiguous answer to the question “which of these two instruments to choose?” It all depends on the tasks that must be solved during the repair or construction. For household purposes, a screwdriver is more suitable, and if you need to constantly carry out a large amount of work with fasteners, then it makes sense to opt for a screwdriver.

Overview of 14.4 Volt Cordless Impact Drivers

Small giants of big torque. this name is perfect for cordless impact screwdrivers.

And you can’t argue with that. Even with a low-voltage battery, these tools are able to create a torque that is not even dreamed of in powerful heavy cordless drills. What can we say then about the 14.4-volt models that were selected for this test review?!

AS AN INTRODUCTION

Impulse screwdrivers, as a rule, are compact, lightweight (1.5–2 kg) and easy to use, since changing their equipment is extremely simple. The high tightening torque is achieved by impact. What is important to understand: the impact here is tangential, that is, it is directed not along the axis of rotation (like in rotary hammers), but around it. Just imagine putting a wrench over the head of the screw and hitting it with a hammer. With each blow, the screw tightens more and more, and the result of the perfect blows will be those unimaginable “Newtons”. At the same time, the constant torque generated by the “motor-gear” system is relatively small.

However, the advantage of such tools is not only in strength, but also in speed: self-tapping screws even 30 cm long are driven by an impulse screwdriver into a solid wood in just 10 seconds. Small screws can also be tightened without problems, but with careful handling of the tool, since there is no stepped torque limiter here.

TEST PARTICIPANTS

We have selected seven top-tier professional models. The criteria were: a lithium-ion battery with a voltage of 14.4 V, as well as a compact class.

AEG BSS 18C Li

Battery and voltage, V. 18.0 Li-Ion

Rotation frequency, rpm 0-2400

Impact frequency, impact / min. 0. 3100

Max. tightening torque, Nm. 155

Spindle. VSh 1/4 ”

Bosch GDR 14.4 VLI

Battery and voltage, V. 14.4 Li-Ion

Rotation frequency, rpm 0-2800

The frequency of blows, blows / min. 0-3200

Max. tightening torque, Nm. 150

Spindle. VSh 1/4 ”

Hilti SID 144A

Battery and voltage, V. 14.4 Li-Ion

Rotation frequency, rpm 0-2700

Impact frequency, impact / min. 0-3400

Max. tightening torque, Nm. 140

Spindle. VSh 1/4 ”

Metabo SSD 14.4 LT

Battery and voltage, V. 14.4 Li-Ion

Rotation frequency, rpm 0-2600

Impact frequency, impact / min. 0. 3300

Max. tightening torque, Nm. 140

Spindle. VSh 1/4 ”

Perles SDN 1418

Battery and voltage, V. 14.4 NiCD

Rotation frequency, rpm 0-2300

The frequency of blows, blows / min. 0-3000

Max. tightening torque, Nm. 177

Spindle. KV 1/2 ”

Hitachi WH14DBL

Battery and voltage, V. 14.4 Li-Ion

Rotation frequency, rpm 0-2600

Impact frequency, impact / min. 0. 3200

Max. tightening torque, Nm. 150

Spindle. VSh 1/4 ”

Makita BTD132RFE

Battery and voltage, V. 14.4 Li-Ion

Rotation frequency, rpm 0-2400

The frequency of blows, blows / min. 0-3200

Max. tightening torque, Nm. 155

Spindle. VSh 1/4 ”

SCREWDRIVER OR NUTRUNNER?

Confusion often arises, and some manufacturers generally prefer not to divide them into two categories, referring to them as “wrenches”. However, there is a quite clear rule on this score: if the tool is equipped with an internal hexagon for bits, it is a screwdriver, but if the square for socket heads is a nutrunner. What is the difference in practice? If you load the screwdriver for a long time with bolts, nuts or “wood grouses” that require a very high tightening torque, then a bit with a hex shank will simply break. Obviously, this is unlikely to happen with a 1/2 ” square socket. In practice, the manufacturer often makes the same tool in two different qualities. a screwdriver and a wrench, in addition, equipping them with batteries of neighboring voltages (14, 4 and 18 V). As a result, we have four models at once. And their names often differ in just one letter and number (for example, it stands for D or W). D. driver. wrench, W. wrencher. wrench.

TEST 1. TURNING TIME

It makes no sense to check such tools with relatively small fasteners, so we used a 6×300 screw and a 10×120 mm wood grouse as a consumable. They were screwed into a pine beam, and a 6×300 screw pierced three blanks at once to plunge into the array completely.

Why timber? And why was wood generally used as the main working material? Because this is still a test of screwdrivers, and therefore bolts and nuts are coastal for a more suitable case.

The table shows the time based on the results of five attempts. To minimize losses at the ready, the fasteners were pre-screwed into the array so that it would hold there confidently. We tried to choose a compact working area so that the heterogeneity of the material was less affected.

Table 1. Average twisting time, sec.

Wood screw 6×300 “Capercaillie” 10×120

AEG BSS 18C Li. 11.3 9.2

Bosch GDR 14.4 V-LI. 10.1 8.6

Hilti SID 144-A. 9.2 8.6

Metabo SSD 14.4 LT. 9.1 8.4

Perles SDN 1418.8.1 10.1

Hitachi WH14DBL. 10.1 8.7

Makita BTD132RFE. 10.5 9.2

TEST 2. FULL DISCHARGE

An equally important characteristic is the amount of work done on one battery charge. We decided to proceed as follows: we screwed into the same timber and immediately unscrewed the same “wood grouse” 10×120. And they did this until the battery was completely discharged (the stop sign was the stop of the motor). Before work, he naturally went through a full charge. Key characteristics determining success in this test:

Battery capacity. the time during which the battery is able to provide a current of a certain strength.

The current consumed by the motor. This is an equally important parameter, which also characterizes the efficiency of the system, since a part of the power is also spent on friction between the mechanisms.

Below is the number of “screwed in – out” cycles, and since the cycle consisted of two actions, then the result is multiplied by 2.

Table 2. Volume of work before battery discharge, sec.

Battery capacity Wh Work done

Perles SDN 1418.2.4 34.56 49.5×2

Bosch GDR 14.4 V-LI. 2.6 37.44 67.5×2

Hilti SID 144-A. 2.6 37.44 51×2

Metabo SSD 14.4 LT. 2.6 37.44 57.5×2

AEG BSS 18C Li. 3.0 54.0 64.5×2

Brushless models:

Hitachi WH14DBL. 3.0 43.2 94×2

Makita BTD132RFE. 3.0 43.2 86×2

SUMMARY: The superiority of the brushless models is obvious. The results clearly show that there is no friction loss in the brush assembly.

TEST 3. CHARGING

Now let’s try to estimate how quickly the batteries of the tested screwdrivers accumulate charge. This characteristic will allow you to estimate possible downtime. Initially, we planned to give the actual charging time, but during the test we were convinced of the pointlessness of this. Firstly, in most cases the figures declared by the manufacturer were only confirmed (the difference of 1-2 minutes does not count). Second, to reduce to one single model,

provided for the test would be wrong. In practice, slight discrepancies are possible. And the temperature dependence factor is not going anywhere. In general, we put the tools aside. we evaluate the “battery-charger” system.

Table 3. Charger characteristics and battery charging time

Charger Charging time, min.

AEG BSS 18C Li (3.0). BL 9618 40

Bosch GDR 14.4 VLI (2.6). AL 1860 CV 30

Hilti SID 144A (2.6). C 4/36-ACS 24

Hitachi WH14DBL (3.0). UC18YRSL 45

Makita BTD132RFE (3.0). DC18RA 27

Metabo SSD 14.4 LT (2.6). ACS 30 60

Perles SDN 1418 (2,4). DC142315 60

TEST 4. TURNING THE SMALL FASTENER. ELECTRONIC CONTROL

If you have any doubts about the ability of impulse screwdrivers to delicately cope with tightening small screws, you are welcome! The task sounds like this: screw 20 small screws 4×15 mm in size into the beech shield so that their head is flush with the surface of the shield. Looking ahead, we will say that none of the participants failed, but the tested models turned out to be convenient in different ways.

AEG BSS 18C Li, Perles SDN 1418.4 points

There are no electronic systems for presetting the speed and impacts, so you should only rely on yourself. The required twisting rate and torque is selected by the force of pressing the switch.

Bosch GDR 14.4 V-LI. 4 points

The technical equipment of this screwdriver does not differ from the AEG BSS 18C Li and Perles SDN 1418, but the tool has a useful feature. Namely, a switch with the ability to adjust the speed of rotation in a wide range. With it, picking up and keeping the extremely low frequency is not difficult.

Hilti SID 144-A. 4 points

This tool received its plus thanks to the electronic power control system. There is a two-position mechanical switch at the base of the handle:

Hitachi WH14DBL, Makita BTD132RFE, Metabo SSD 14.4 LT. 5 points

They have advanced power control electronics, and therefore deserve the highest marks. True, the implementation is different for everyone.

Metabo SSD 14.4 LT

Only one red button with circular arrows is responsible for setting, while you can choose one of three operating modes:

1st (button blinks once). low frequency of rotation and impacts. The maximum tightening torque is 75 Nm;

2nd (the button blinks twice). the average frequency of rotation and impacts. Tightening torque up to 115 Nm is provided;

3rd (the button blinks three times). the maximum speed of rotation and impacts for tightening with a tightening torque of up to 140 Nm is available.

Makita BTD132RFE

There are two buttons at the base of the handle. One is responsible for turning the LED backlight on or off. The second is to adjust the speed and impact. The instrument can operate in three modes. By pressing the button, we make one (“Soft” mode), two (intermediate setting) or three (“Hard” mode) divisions light up

Table 4. Rotation speed and impact frequency in different operating modes Makita BTD132RFE

Soft 0-1100 0-1100

Middle 0-1800 0-2600

Hard 0-2400 0-3200

Hitachi WH14DBL

Here, perhaps, the most complex and advanced electronic control system. So, on the side of the base of the handle there are two small buttons: 1st. setting the mode (namely the mode, not the frequency) of the impact. The tool can use a continuous or single blow. The first is a standard mode that allows you to tighten large fasteners. The second is needed just for small screws: as soon as the forces for further rotation require an impact action, only one blow will be heard, and the motor will stop.

2nd button. selection of the maximum rotation speed (as many as 4 steps are available!). One division means a maximum speed of 500 rpm, two divisions. up to 1200 rpm, three divisions. up to 2000 rpm. and finally, four divisions. up to 2600 rpm.

The selected settings are shown on two indicator lights in front of the handle, next to the backlight and battery control buttons. This is such an advanced electronics for this model.!

IMPORTANT!

We did not perform a separate test related to drilling. Impact wrenches are great for this kind of work, however. Yes, drills with a hex shank are required and there is beating of the equipment (they, however, become almost invisible when the drill is immersed), but otherwise, only pluses:

SUBJECTIVE ASSESSMENT OF ERGONOMICS

By and large, all presented tools are distinguished by good and modern ergonomics. The shape of their handle provides a comfortable grip. There is a large area rubber coating on the handle, tool body and battery pack. No misses in balancing.

LIKED OR DON’T LIKE?

AEG BSS 18C Li

Despite the fact that you cannot call a compact instrument, it is distinguished by good ergonomics and bright creative design. It is also worth noting the metal housing of the gearbox, hidden under the glass “cover”.

Neon lights.

Quite good power consumption and, as a result, the amount of work performed without recharging. True, the voltage of the instrument is higher than that of the others.

Good value for money.

No battery indicator.

Bosch GDR 14.4 V-LI

Small size and weight.

Convenient on / off switch with wide speed adjustment range.

Large amount of work done on a single battery charge.

Good ergonomics. For example, about 80% of the handle is covered with rubber.

Plugs for quick access to brushes.

The supplied instrument does not have a battery indicator. The model is currently sold with a battery equipped with an indicator.

Hilti SID 144-A

Lightness and compactness.

“Space” lighting. Three blue LEDs are located in a star at the front of the gearbox housing.

Electronic system of presetting the frequency of rotation and impacts.

Fast battery charging. Very quiet charger with active cooling.

Good ergonomics. Bright design.

Compact case.

Favorable warranty conditions. Within two years, any breakdown, regardless of the cause, is eliminated free of charge.

Very strong heating of the upper back zone of the handle during prolonged use.

Hitachi WH14DBL

Brushless motor and, as a result, a fantastic amount of work without recharging the battery.

Advanced system for adjusting the frequency of rotation and impacts, the ability to change the impact mode.

What’s the difference between a drill, impact driver, and a power screwdriver

Light weight.

Battery pack with large capacity and small size.

Connectable backlight. By the way, after turning off the tool, the indication and LED do not go out for a long time.

Good ergonomics, unusual design for Hitachi. The tool is almost entirely covered with soft plastic and rubber.

Air-cooled charger. True, the fan is loud.

Unusual light indication of the charger. Unknowingly, without paying attention to the graphic prompts, you can wait for a long time for the end of the battery charging, while the “maliciously” blinking red signal means that the process has already been completed.

Makita BTD132RFE

Brushless motor. Large amount of work on one battery charge.

Very compact tool with extremely low weight.

Compact battery with high capacity.

Good ergonomics, bright modern design.

Advanced charger with all kinds of indication, air cooling and a melody at the beginning and end of charging (you can change the melodies or select the “silent” mode).

Connectable LED backlight.

Phosphorescent ring at the front of the gearbox housing. It helps to find the instrument in the dark and well emphasizes the manufacturability of the model.

There is no battery charge indicator (in its usual sense). There is only a signal that lights up when the battery is completely discharged. It is impossible to see the level “when you want”.

Metabo SSD 14.4 LT

Stylish laconic design, good ergonomics. The solidity is given by the gear housing made of metal.

Unusual light indication. The selected operating mode of the instrument is determined by the number of flashes of the red setting button.

Neon lights.

Convenient battery indicator.

Rubber cover on the switch button.

Compact case.

Comparatively long charging time (60 minutes).

Perles SDN 1418

Excellent complete set, including two sets with all kinds of drills, bits and, most importantly, a convenient adapter from 1/2 “square to 1/4” internal hexagon.

High declared torque. True, the tool, despite the positioning by the manufacturer, is still a wrench.

Plugs for quick access to brushes.

High quality workmanship (at the level of leading brands), gear housing made of metal.

Extended battery indication.

Very large and heavy battery pack.

Leave your opinion and suggestions to the article “Review of 14.4-Volt Cordless Pulse Screwdrivers”

Choosing a wrench drive

According to the principle of obtaining a rotational motion, all wrenches are divided into:

  • mechanical;
  • pneumatic;
  • hydraulic;
  • driven by an internal combustion engine;
  • electrical.

We will deliberately not consider the first 4 subspecies as the least justified in terms of home use. Although, for those who have trucks and (or) compressors in garages on the farm, mechanics or pneumatics would be quite useful. But this is such a small number of users as a percentage of their total number that a detailed examination of these devices is, at least, little justified.

The device of most impact wrenches resembles an electric drill or screwdriver, only without a chuck.

Instead, the working shaft is equipped with a half-inch (sometimes smaller) square with a locking ball for installing hardened impact heads.

And the lines of modifications of impact wrenches from all their manufacturers are quite long. Here is just one of the Russian manufacturers with its series of manual pneumatic and electric impact wrenches.

Difference between Drill Drivers & Impact Drivers

But first, about the principle of the instrument.

When an impact wrench is irreplaceable

Our team really appreciated the impact wrench on the construction site. Our main and favorite occupation is the construction of a modern, warm, pre-fabricated housing. One of the technologies we use involves assembling it from panels made in the workshop. So these panels are interconnected according to the spike-groove system on the mounting foam and self-tapping screws. And at the corners, they are additionally pulled together with long and thick self-tapping screws.

And this task is not an easy one, even with preliminary drilling. Than we just screwed these screws: with powerful screwdrivers, and drills with adjustable rotation speed, and even a hammer drill in rotation mode. the result was not always successful. Either the self-tapping screw will break off, then the slots will break. And then the problem is at least doubled.

Everything changed once and for all when an ordinary household electric wrench was purchased for this work.

It can easily screw in the longest and thickest self-tapping screws even without pre-drilling.

With its help, we also fix floor panels up to 250 mm thick through a bar. into a bar. He has already paid for himself several times on the cost alone of the self-tapping screws that were not damaged during screwing in, and it is not small for such fasteners.

And not the studs torn off in the body of the metal cases, requiring the use of complex and time-consuming drilling procedures, not lapped splines of nuts and bolt heads. are these not arguments in favor of a nutrunner??

But most importantly: time and nerves.

Electric impact wrench. what are the advantages of the tool?

Not so long ago, a wrench was considered as a purely specific tool, used mainly at service stations, or rather, tire fitting, for removing and installing wheels, and nothing more. The need to have it in the home master’s kit was not expected at all. Meanwhile, the principle underlying this tool allows you to unscrew such threaded connections, which are sometimes beyond the power of even the most powerful keys with huge levers. It is the unwinding that is the main advantage of the impact wrenches.

But, first of all, about what they are and why the main wrenches in our article are electric.

Micro impact. the basis of the principle of operation of an electric wrench

If we compare the power of a wrench and a screwdriver with their ability to screw in and out self-tapping screws, then a 300-watt wrench sometimes copes with these tasks much better than a kilowatt screwdriver.

But the point is not at all in the power of the electric motor of the tool, but in its design and principle, based on the use of micro-impact.

Namely: the rotation from the electric motor is transmitted to the shaft and flywheel of the impact device. When resistance to rotation arises on the working shaft. when tightening or unscrewing, the impact mechanism turns to a certain position and breaks off, producing a shock. He’s not strong, but there are many of them. It is a series of these blows (about 2000 / min) that allows you to achieve incredible performance (the average tightening torque is sometimes not limited to 600 Nm). And this is at a power of no more than 300. 500 watts. And this blow is not at all the same as that of the same perforator or hammer drill. There it is directed along the axis of the working shaft, and at the wrench. perpendicular to it.

In part, the operation of an impact wrench resembles the situation with emergency unscrewing of stuck nuts using a traditional tool. Pour abundantly on such a WD-40 nut or kerosene, which is almost the same, or Coca-Cola, which is no less effective and wait until it turns off. You put a powerful head on a wrench with a long handle, and a pipe on it to increase the lever, and the nut does not come off. The only solution remains. to use an open-end wrench (or better. an “asterisk”) and a hammer.

It is exactly what we do with these tools that resembles the work of a wrench, but very remotely. This is an extreme measure, allowing you to rip off a stuck nut or bolt, but it is fraught with rupture of the threaded connection or the head of the bolt being torn off. Also, with a not very tight fit of the key on the hardware or poor-quality material from which it is made, deformation of the edges of the fastener is possible, which is always fraught with additional problems.

This almost never happens with a wrench. The main thing is that the compliance of the tool characteristics with the parameters of the threaded connection is observed.

Choosing an electric wrench

You may have already made some of this choice with our help by opting for an electric impact wrench. Why exactly in his favor, we have already argued, now let’s figure out the rest of the options.

Which is better wrench or screwdriver?

Given the many functions of a screwdriver, it performs a wider range of work, which is what wins over a nutrunner. In many cases, it replaces the nut device, performs the simple work of a wrench. The screwdriver works even more accurately: the tangential impact of a professional wrench, although it works quickly, but the self-tapping screws do not withstand the stress and can fly out of the building material.

Tip: From the outside, the nut mechanism looks like a conventional drill, and its holder is equipped with an extension attachment.

The impact wrench becomes indispensable during large construction works, when working with cars, ships, airplanes and other units. A device for screwing in self-tapping screws and screws is often used at home for furniture repair. Since such a mechanism is free of mains power, the use of the impact wrench is.

What is the difference between a wrench and a screwdriver: 3 main criteria

In some everyday situations, it is quite difficult to get by with a wrench. Then devices come to the rescue that help to assemble and disassemble threaded devices. Some of these are a screwdriver and a wrench. They have one task. help when working with fasteners. but also a lot of differences. We propose to consider the main differences between the devices, find out which is more convenient to use, and how you can upgrade an old screwdriver to a nutrunner.

An impact wrench is a mechanical tool for screwing in and out nuts and bolts. You cannot do without it when you need to unscrew a rusted nut in hard-to-reach places, and a simple wrench is powerless. The impact wrench can be confused with a drill. but an experienced owner will see the difference: the attachment installed in the holder. It is this nozzle that compresses the nut and holds it while the engine twists it in or unscrews it.

Tip: DeWalt DW292 is considered a convenient option. the model consumes 710 watts of power.

Screwdriver. a device for screwing and unscrewing screws, screws, self-tapping screws and other fasteners. Its peculiarity. work at different speeds. expands the range of possibilities. The device drives screws, drills, has an impact function.

Tip: Bosch has established itself as a market leader in this niche too. Especially popular are the models Bosch GSR 6-45 TE, Bosch GSR 14.4-2-LI Plus.

A wrench, unlike a screwdriver, is considered a more professional tool. According to the method of application, the mechanism for nuts can be: gasoline, pneumatic, hydraulic and work from the mains. It is designed for screwing in or out bolts or nuts. Unlike a screwdriver, a chuck is not attached to the nutrunner. A rod with a nut head is installed in its place.

The second difference. in tightening power, here the impact wrench has an advantage. With him you can “master” any crafts.

Another difference lies in the volume and weight of the mechanisms, for example, not every person can lift some wrenches. Also, screwdrivers are able to regulate their work process, while another representative of mechanics does not have this opportunity. A nutrunner copes with complex tasks no faster than a screwdriver, which creates a lot of noise during operation. this fact is the key difference. In such a situation, equipped with a 3-speed gearbox, the DeWalt DCF895M2 screwdriver can replace any nut tightening device in light tasks.

In terms of operational capabilities, the nut mechanism has serious limitations. It is good to use drills when drilling. So, for soft wood, it is not necessary to use a professional mechanism, you can get by with the BlackDecker EPC12CAB screwdriving tool.

It may also be interesting: How to choose a drill

How to convert a screwdriver to a wrench?

Consider how to convert an unusable screwdriver into a new nutrunner. For such a design you will need:

  • Adapter set.
  • Device battery.
  • Control indicator.
  • Button for wrench.

Tip: Store the devices in a case, so the chance of breakage if dropped is reduced to a minimum. It is important to remember that attachments for mechanisms are very fragile and require careful maintenance.

For the device, you need to set the horn for the brakes. Then you need to connect and solder all the connectors of the indicators. If you connect the components correctly, you get a screwdriver. Watch your voltage. the battery is difficult to tolerate. The assembly of parts will take no more than 20 minutes; you can also convert the device to its original state. Such a device will be able to screw in the screws, however, for this you need to put a suitable nozzle.

In summary, it is not necessary to buy new home appliances. Practical expert advice will help you build your wrench. At home, it can be easily replaced with a screwdriver. For more serious construction, the impact wrench is indispensable. We hope our material has helped to understand the main differences between devices for screws and nuts.

See clearly in the video how to make a new wrench from an old screwdriver: Turning a screwdriver into a wrench

A few words about the impact wrench

An industrial or homemade wrench is used to install and remove bolts and nuts. Some may accidentally confuse it with a drill, but experienced craftsmen will immediately point to a special nozzle in the holder, which a conventional drill does not have. You will definitely not be able to do without it if you need to unscrew the old nut, which is so rusted that you simply cannot unscrew it with your hands or with a wrench. The tool is produced in the following versions:

  • pneumatic;
  • gasoline;
  • hydraulic;
  • powered by electricity.

The impact wrench is widely used in repair shops and in various assembly jobs. powerful tools are used in mechanical engineering.

What is the difference between a wrench and a screwdriver

During work, difficult situations are often encountered when using only a wrench becomes clearly insufficient. Then you have to pick up special tools: they help in working with parts that have a thread. Among them are the screwdriver and the nutrunner. These technical devices serve one purpose. to speed up work associated with a large number of nuts, bolts and screws used. At the same time, despite the similarity of the tasks being solved, they also have a number of significant differences. You can find out about this and about which of the tools is better to use from the review below.

What is the difference between tools

A wrench is considered to be a tool for professionals, while a screwdriver is mainly used for smaller household jobs. The main differences between a nutrunner and a screwdriver are the following characteristics.

  • The wrench is more cumbersome than the screwdriver and does not have a chuck. At its end there is a special rod on which a nut head is attached.
  • The power of the wrench applied to the object is many times greater than the power of the screwdriver. With the help of the first one can solve any “problems”.
  • There is a significant difference in the weight and size of these mechanisms. Wrenches are usually larger and heavier.
  • Screwdrivers have several operating modes that can be adjusted. Unlike them, no other special tools have this capability.

Thus, impact wrenches are used more often for heavy mechanical work, while its competitor is more often used for simpler domestic repairs. In addition, for simple tasks, you can try to make a wrench yourself using ordinary nozzles.

Which tool should you choose? The answer to this question will depend on the type of work where these tools are needed. Considering that a nutrunner has a tangential impact during operation, it cannot be used to tighten screws, as it will simply tear off their caps. However, if you ensure that there is no stop, then he can make such a mount that even the most powerful screwdriver cannot create. If there is a small amount of work to be done, which includes only screwing in screws, then an ordinary screwdriver will be enough for this. Therefore, it is necessary to decide what to choose for work. a screwdriver or a wrench, based on specific circumstances.

What is a screwdriver

A screwdriver is an electric tool, the main purpose of which is to carry out work on screwing or unscrewing various screws, bolts and self-tapping screws. One can only imagine how long it will take to screw in a few hundred screws by hand when assembling, for example, a regular built-in cabinet for things or shelves for tools. With this device, all work will take a few minutes. In addition, this power tool has some other additional features:

  • use as a cordless drill;
  • replacement using special nozzles of conventional hex keys;
  • backlight function in poor visibility conditions.

An electric screwdriver is also convenient in that it can drive screws to a given depth. Therefore, all screw heads will be located in the same plane, which will give the work a beautiful and finished look.

Is it possible to make a wrench from a screwdriver yourself

Of course it is possible, with only one important caveat: it is unlikely that it will be possible to get the same power as a tool made in an industrial environment. But, very often too much power is not required. For example, if you have to change tires on a car. Many people know how long the process of unscrewing wheel nuts is. Of course, there is an opportunity to contact specialists, but it will cost money. If you have a screwdriver at hand, then it can be quickly converted into a wrench: for this you only need an adapter with a head of a certain size, which must completely match the size of the wheel wrench. It remains to fix this adapter in the chuck and install the head. The screwdriver wrench is completely ready.

Of course, this will not be a full-fledged tool, since it will still be necessary to loosen the nuts manually, but the time spent on all wheels will be only one minute.