Atlas Copco pneumatic tools: nutrunners vs. impact wrenches

For high-torque applications that involve drilling, hammering, chiseling, and much more, air tools offer operators an excellent power-to-weight ratio, as they’re typically lighter than their electric tool counterparts and are able to pack more of a punch.

Powered by air compressors, pneumatic tools come in many different forms. Of all the various types of pneumatic tools, perhaps two of the most common are pneumatic torque wrenches (also known as a ‘nutrunner’ or ‘runner’) and impact wrenches. In this article, we’ll be comparing these two pneumatic tool types.

The pneumatic nutrunner is the perfect tool choice for a wide range of applications, including those in the automotive, heavy equipment, and white goods industries. Characterized by their ability to apply a specific, defined level of torque to a bolt, pneumatic torque wrenches are ideal for assembly jobs in which overtightening must be prevented.

The pneumatic runner is also built to last. As long as lubrication and service requirements are met, these are tools that can be used continually, without needing to rest or cool down like electric nutrunners. This is especially important in the context of pneumatic nutrunner applications; connected to an air compressor, a pneumatic nutrunner runs much cooler than electric tools, meaning that they do not stall or overload. Further, the risk of shock and fire hazards is virtually nonexistent.

Used mainly for loosening lug nuts or large bolts, impact wrenches deliver a high-torque output with little effort on the part of the operator. Common to the Automotive industry, pneumatic impact wrenches are powered by an internal hammering mechanism that makes them ideal for hammering away at a rusted or stubborn bolt until it’s loosened and able to be removed.

Air impact wrenches are built to perform at high speeds in both forward and reverse, and as such, they do not offer extremely high accuracy for bolt tightening. They do, however, offer operators exceptional ergonomics with reaction-reducing technologies. This means that external reaction arms and other reaction-lessening devices are not typically necessary, which can save hundreds on hardware costs. Further, pneumatic impact wrenches are extremely low maintenance.

Much like a pneumatic runner, pneumatic impact wrenches are built to last a long time between service intervals, and unlike electric tools, they do not overheat.

• LMP high torque nutrunners: The LMP range of twin-motor pistol grip pneumatic nutrunners offer the highest possible torque and speed in relation to the weight of the tool. Fast, accurate, and extremely user-friendly, LMP high torque nutrunners are available in reversible versions for maximum flexibility on the line.

• RTP pneumatic nutrunners: Among the smallest on the market, Atlas Copco’s RTP pneumatic runner range features a high-speed motor, along with a lightweight reaction bar that ensures maximum reaction force absorption. The tool’s slim gear pack allows operators to access cramped spots on the line while the tool’s exchangeable drive cuts repair costs.

• LMS impact wrenches: Atlas Copco’s range of LMS impact wrenches come in pistol grip and straight versions. Equipped with an advanced impact mechanism, the LMS range of air impact wrenches offers operators an impressive capacity-to-weight ratio and reduced strain and vibrations for a safer operator experience.
• PRO impact wrenches: Within our PRO range of pneumatic tools are 12 different PRO impact wrench models. With a torque range of 0-1600 Nm (depending on the PRO model), this series of impact wrenches come in either a pistol or straight version and feature aluminum and magnesium housing for high durability in rough environments.

Want to learn more about Atlas Copco’s pneumatic tooling options? Contact us and schedule a demo today!