Chicago Pneumatic
Chi Pneu Table Screen Shot Resized 5cb8a4b330c8e Web

Tech Tip: Do you know which socket to use on your impact wrench?

April 18, 2019
There are many types of sockets on the market, but all can be split into two categories: impact sockets and regular sockets.

How to differentiate impact sockets from regular sockets?

The main difference is wall thickness, but it is very easy to differentiate between the two by just looking at them: impact sockets are matt while most of the standard sockets are glossy.

Two reasons why you should only use impact sockets for your impact wrench:

  1. Ensure safety: Contrary to regular sockets, impact sockets are designed to support and absorb the momentary shock of each impact, therefore preventing cracks or breaks, and prolonging the life of the socket. If a regular socket is used on powered tools, the possibility of ruptures is very high. This could result in a serious safety risk for everyone in the same work space as any cracks in the socket can make it explode at any time, causing severe injuries to any operator.
  2. Achieve optimal efficiency: Impact sockets provide a perfect fit to powered tools, and therefore will avoid unusual deformation or damages to the tool’s square drive.

“Using the right socket for your impact wrench is crucial to ensure safety and efficiency,” said Annabelle Bray, accessories product manager at Chicago Pneumatic.

Information Provided By: Chicago Pneumatic 

Sponsored Recommendations

Report: The 2024 State of Heavy-Duty Repair

From capitalizing on the latest revenue trends to implementing strategic financial planning—this report serves as a roadmap for navigating the challenges and opportunities of ...

Fleet Industry Benchmarks: How does your fleet stack up?

Discover how your fleet compares to industry benchmarks and gain insights from a 2024 Benchmarking Report on maintenance spend, turnaround time, and more. Join us to identify ...

Reducing CSA Violations & Increasing Safety With Advanced Trailer Telematics

Keep the roads safer with advanced trailer telematics. In this whitepaper, see how you can gain insights that lead to increased safety and reduced roadside incidents—keeping drivers...

80% Fewer Towable Accidents - 10 Key Strategies

After installing grille guards on all of their Class 8 trucks, a major Midwest fleet reported they had reduced their number of towable accidents by 80% post installation – including...