Yes, you can use a socket extension with a torque wrench, although it is important to use the correct type for the job. Socket extensions help you reach awkward or hard to reach areas and can come in a variety of lengths, from a few inches to several feet long.
When using a socket extension with a torque wrench, it is important to make sure the extension can handle the torque being applied, as extensions of the wrong type or that are too weak could break under the pressure.
Additionally, the torque wrench should be long enough to handle the added length of the socket extension with the torque values accurately preserved. It is also important to remember to add the correct amount of additional force to the torque wrench when using an extension, as the longer reach will require a greater amount of torque to tighten fasteners.
Do I need a torque wrench if I have an impact wrench?
No, you do not necessarily need a torque wrench if you have an impact wrench. Impact wrenches are designed to deliver a predetermined amount of torque to heavy-duty fasteners such as nuts and bolts. It is important to note, however, that while an impact wrench is extremely useful for quickly and efficiently loosening or tightening nuts and bolts, its lack of accuracy and precision may be a problem when dealing with delicate assemblies where an exact amount of torque is required.
In such cases, a torque wrench is best suited as they are designed to accurately and precisely deliver a set amount of torque to a fastener. Furthermore, torque wrenches are highly useful for re-tightening already installed fasteners.
Therefore, it is up to you to decide whether you need to invest in a torque wrench in addition to an impact wrench for your tasks.
How much torque can an impact socket handle?
Impact socket torque capability will depend on the size and type of socket being used. Most impact sockets are designed to handle around 3,000 to 5,000 ft-lbs of torque, but there are some specialty sockets that can handle higher levels.
The most common sizes of impact sockets used with air and electric impact wrenches are 1/2, 3/8, and 1/4 in. The 1/2 in. sockets are the most common and designed to handle applications ranging from 3,000 to 5,000 ft-lbs of torque.
The 3/8 in. sockets have a bit less torque capability and are, typically, rated for applications up to 3,000 ft-lbs. The 1/4 in. sockets are the smallest and, typically, cannot even handle 1,000 ft-lbs of torque as they are generally used for lighter duty applications like body panel fasteners.
Size, material, and construction all factor into the torque capability of an impact socket. Chrome molybdenum alloy steel is the primary material used for impact sockets and has a high tensile strength for optimal durability and torque transmission.
Thicker walls are also important and there are typically six or twelve points of contact in an impact socket, each with a chamfer that helps to distribute torque and prevent slipping. The deeper the socket, the higher the torque capability will be, so always look for impact sockets with a deeper wall or design.
Can I use impact sockets for everything?
No, you should not use impact sockets for everything. Impact sockets should only be used for applications in which you need to loosen and tighten threaded fasteners using an impact wrench, such as on items like engines and automotive or machinery parts.
If you’re working with regular hand tools, regular sockets are a better choice, as these are designed to be used in conjunction with your own hand power and you do not need an impact wrench. Impact sockets are also usually thicker, creating a snugger fit so they don’t slip off, while regular sockets have thinner walls that allow you to use a greater range of motion.
Additionally, whereas an impact socket will usually have a black oxide or black phosphate finish to reduce wear and tear, regular sockets tend to have a standard chrome finish that gives them more protection and longevity.
Therefore, unless you need to use an impact wrench, you should use regular sockets for most applications.
Can you set torque on impact driver?
Yes, it is possible to set torque on an impact driver. This is done either by selecting a specific setting on the impact driver, or by manually setting the maximum torque you want the tool to reach. Manual settings are often available on the side of the tool and usually adjust with a thumbwheel.
Some impact drivers have multiple torque settings, which allow you to tailor the amount of torque to the specific job. It is important to remember that when setting torque, you should always use the lowest setting possible to get the job done.
Over-torqueing can cause damage to the workpiece, the tool and the fastener.
Are impact sockets stronger than normal sockets?
Yes, impact sockets are generally stronger than normal sockets. Impact sockets are manufactured with thicker walls and deeper broaching than other sockets and are designed to withstand higher torques.
This also makes them heavier, which can help reduce the likelihood of them bending when subjected to higher pressure. Additionally, impact sockets are more heat resistant, meaning they will not deform when subjected to high temperatures.
They are also less likely to strip or round fasteners due to their stronger material construction.
Do impact sockets make a difference?
Yes, impact sockets can make a big difference. Impact sockets are designed to withstand the shock and vibrations of working with impact wrenches, unlike standard sockets which are much more fragile and can break easily.
Additionally, since impact sockets are much sturdier, they are able to grip a fastener much tighter than standard sockets, providing more confidence when driving fasteners. Additionally, impact sockets are designed with a specialized wall thickness that helps absorb those shock and vibrations, while standard sockets would be much more likely to break under the same conditions.
Finally, impact sockets tend to be more corrosion resistant than standard sockets and are more likely to survive in challenging working conditions. Overall, impact sockets are a great choice for use with impact wrenches, and make a big difference compared to standard sockets when it comes to durability and performance.
Why don’t you put chrome sockets on an impact?
Chrome sockets should not be used with an impact tool because they can be easily damaged and scratched due to the high rotational forces and vibrations associated with the tool. Chrome sockets are typically made of softer materials, such as chrome vanadium, which can be easily distorted when used with an impact tool.
Moreover, they create more friction every time they touch the fastener, leading to greater wear and tear of the socket. Hardened steel sockets are a much better choice for an impact tool because they can handle the high amount of torque and impacts without any degradation in performance.
What is the hardness of impact sockets?
Impact sockets are usually made from either alloy steel or chrome vanadium steel and are designed to be used specifically with impact tools – like an air impact wrench – in order to loosen and tighten stubborn fasteners.
The hardness of impact sockets will vary from one manufacturer to another, but it’s typically between 40-80 HRC. Generally, the higher the number, the harder the material, however, this does not necessarily mean that the socket is of a higher quality or strength than one with a lower number.
The hardness number is just one of the components used to measure a socket’s quality, strength, and durability. Other factors, like the material type and thickness, also play a role.
Are 12 point sockets better than 6 point?
It depends on the application, as both 12 point and 6 point sockets have their strengths and weaknesses. 6 point sockets offer more stability when gripping the fastener, making them better for more secure jobs.
12 point sockets allow for a larger contact area and thus can be used with fasteners that have been damaged or distorted. 12 point sockets also provide more flexibility when working in tight areas, as they require less clearance for the box end of the wrench than 6 points.
Ultimately, the choice between a 12 point socket and a 6 point socket depends on the task you are looking to accomplish. If you need more stability with a secure grip, you may want to use a 6 point socket, while if you need more flexibility due to tight spaces or damaged fasteners, a 12 point socket is probably the better choice.
What are the distinguishing features of an impact socket?
Impact sockets are specifically designed to be used with impact wrenches as well as other power tools to fasten and loosen bolts, nuts, and other threaded fasteners. They look very similar to regular sockets but are designed differently to avoid shattering when used with higher torque and vibration.
Impact sockets are made of a harder and thicker metal that can withstand the extreme force and impact of an air or electric power tool. Additionally, they generally have deeper walls and wider openings so that they do not get stripped out when tightening and loosening screws.
Impact sockets also feature a positive stop shouldered design, which helps them stay in place on the fasteners. The head of the impact socket is usually colored to clearly differentiate them from regular sockets.
What is the difference between chrome sockets and impact sockets?
Chrome sockets and impact sockets are both tools used to drive fasteners and turn nuts and bolts. Chrome sockets are generally used to turn fasteners with a lower torque requirement. They have a polished finish and are typically made of chrome vanadium steel, which is designed to reduce wear.
They also come in various sizes, with each size designed to fit a particular fastener type/size. Impact sockets are designed with a black oxide finish and are designed to withstand higher torque. They are made of alloy steel, which is designed to reduce wear and resist deformation.
They usually have a greater range of sizes compared to chrome sockets, and are generally considered the better choice for higher torque applications.
What are the different types of sockets?
Sockets are interfaces between two nodes in a network for exchanging data packets. They form the foundation for many communication protocols, such as the Transmission Control Protocol and Internet Protocol (TCP/IP).
There are four main types of sockets:
1. Stream socket: This type of socket is reliable and two-way data exchange is enabled. It is used for connection-oriented protocols such as TCP.
2. Datagram socket: This is a connectionless socket and it is best suited for connectionless protocols such as UDP.
3. Raw socket: This type of socket enables direct access to the underlying communications protocol and can be used for both connection-oriented and connectionless protocols.
4. Sequenced-packet socket: This type of socket provides some level of connection and guarantees the delivery of data in-sequence to the corresponding application. It is used for connection-oriented protocols such as SCTP (Stream Control Transmission Protocol).