Definition of Impact Socket
Sockets, when paired with a ratcheting tool, are designed to tighten or loosen nuts and bolts. Impact sockets were introduced as an improvement over standard sockets for use in high-impact situations requiring a lot of torque.
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Understanding Torque
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Torque is a measurement of rotational force. Simply put, torque is a measurement of rotational force. In high-impact situations, the force of rotation may be too intense for standard sockets; thus creating a need for an impact socket, which can handle the amount of torque required to get the job done effectively.
Standard Sockets vs. Impact Sockets
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Standard sockets are made of hard steel and often shatter when too much force is applied. Impact sockets are made of softer steel, which allows them to withstand continuous blows and high-torque. Standard sockets are made of brittle steel and often crack or shatter when they are used in high-impact situations. Impact sockets are made of a softer, heat compressed alloy steel; therefore they are malleable and will not break when in high-impact situations that require a lot of torque.
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Features of Impact Sockets
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Impact sockets have a hexagonal female end that typically comes in 12-points or 6-points ranging in various sizes measured in inches or millimeters. Impact sockets are coated in black phosphate or black oxide finish and are heat treated to withstand continuous blows without breaking. Their hexagonal female end typically comes in 12-points or 6-points in various sizes measured in inches or millimeters. Impact sockets can be shallow, semi-deep, deep, extra deep and some have a swivel feature. All impact sockets are designed to be used with a ratchet or impact gun.
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References
- Photo Credit socket set series image by Steve Johnson from Fotolia.com support nut and bolt image by green308 from Fotolia.com socket wrench image by Jim Mills from Fotolia.com
