Did you know that when it comes to impact wrenches, there are no industry standards for testing torque? In this article, we want to highlight the importance of considering each manufacturer standards, and looking at the same values when comparing different impact wrenches.
The torque value, reached by an impact wrench, depends on the time you allow the tool to reach this value. Behind each catalog torque value, you need to understand the related time interval.
Most manufacturers use 2 different time intervals, to measure tools' torque:
- Working torque: the value you need to look at considering your everyday torque needs. At Rodcraft, we consider that a good working torque is measured within a 4 seconds time interval, because we believe this is the right amount of time to get the job done in real conditions.
- Maximum torque: the best torque the tool can reach in occasional usage (removing a rusted nut for example). As a guidance, at Rodcraft, we measure maximum torque within a 10 seconds time interval. We consider that if you can't reach the torque you need before 10 seconds, you would need to look at a higher dimensioned tool.
Some manufacturers will use other terms, such as "break away torque" and others. These values refer to the maximum torque measured with the tool, on a longer time interval. In other words, the tool can reach this torque, but you would need a significant time to get the job done. Not to mention that using a tool at maximum torque frequently shortens its lifespan. In any case, always refer to manufacturers measurement specifications, when comparing 2 different tools. Remember! High torque on the paper doesnt always mean fast at work. Torque should not be the only criteria you consider when buying a new tool : Read more here.