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Proportioning the Compressed Air Dryer
Trying to figure out which air dryer capacity is best for you? Here are some factors to consider. Read More…
How to choose the best impact wrench for your application
With many different options on the market, it can be challenging to know what features to look out for when selecting an impact
wrench. This guide provides a brief overview of the technology and outlines some simple steps to help you get started.
Get familiar with the mechanics
An impact wrench, also known as an impact driver or an impact gun, is designed to tighten or untighten bolts. It is commonly used in mechanical and industrial applications, for example when changing tires and disassembling car wheels, or performing maintenance on oil platforms. There are electrical, battery-powered, or pneumatic options available, each associated with different benefits and challenges.
The operating principle is relatively simple. An impact mechanism composed of an anvil, an impactor (hammer) and a spring, enables the
wrench to tighten and untighten as required. The tool accumulates energy by the hammer cage over one or more revolutions and once the hammer
hits the output shaft (anvil), it creates the tightening or untightening torque.
Assess your requirements
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It
is good to bear in mind that there is no one-size-fits-all solution. The desired torque range, power requirements and the impact
mechanism’s design may vary depending on the job. As the latter affects the weight, vibration, speed and durability of the tool, it can
have a considerable impact on user comfort and suitability for the task. To start the selection process, first consider:
- What are you looking for in a tool: is it power, efficiency, ergonomics, freedom of movement, or multi-purpose use?
- Your environment: how are you going to power the tool?
- The torque: range and precision, what does your application require?
- The ergonomics of the product: are the vibration and sound levels, the tool design and the proposed accessories a good fit for the job?
- The clutch type: is the mechanism capable of delivering the power you require?
- The weight and material of the tool: will it be easy to use over long periods and is the material a good match for your working environment?
Take a closer look at tool design
The design of the tool can play a key role in improving productivity. For example, a well-positioned center of gravity is a great benefit, as it enables better support over extended periods, while different handle shapes and trigger positionings can improve user comfort.
Remember that material matters
The material of the tool is another critical consideration. Metallic tools are usually more robust, but also heavy to use over long periods. Composite tools, on the other hand, are much lighter, enabling better maneuverability, but the material has made them less durable. Fortunately, advancements in material development over the last decade have improved the mechanical resistance of composite, improving its strength and making it a good alternative to metal in many applications.
It is good to remember that the clutch housing and the body of the tool can be made of different materials. When you compare tools, make sure you check which part is composite and which is metal. As a rule of thumb, impact wrenches larger than ¾” tend to be made of metal.
Get the torque level right
Always choose a tool with a maximum torque that is superior to the torque needed for your application. This will reduce the time you spend using the tool and the vibrations you are subjected to. The graph below illustrates the different torque values commonly found in manufacturers’ catalogs.
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Do you use the right impact wrench?
Legend:
- A: Tool torque range
- B: Time
- 1: Optimal torque: Looking at this torque range, this tool is the best choice, ensuring the best productivity ratio. Ideal for intensive use.
- 2: Working torque: Make sure the torque you need for your application is covered in the tool's working torque range.
- 3: Maximum torque: For a frequent use at this torque level, we recommend choosing a more powerful tool for more productivity and operator comfort.
Beware of overtightening! In some applications, for example when changing tires in small vehicles or trucks, tightening requires precision
and torque control. Using tools with torque limited functions, coupled with a torque wrench, will optimize the application without
overtightening and damaging the studs.
Review bolt size
You can identify the ideal tool square by looking at the size of the thread. If the square is too small compared to the thread, it will not be suitable and is likely to break. However, if the square is too large, it will be too strong and break the screw when tightening it.
Do not ignore ergonomics, sound and vibration
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It is vital to pay attention to factors that affect user safety and ergonomics, such as the sound level and vibration. The sound level is usually governed by the ISO15744 standard and the lower the value, the safer the user experience. The same goes for vibration levels, usually governed by ISO28927: lower vibration levels equal a safer and more comfortable user experience. Some impact systems are designed to enable low vibration levels and safety and comfort can also be further enhanced with the use of vibration-absorbing gloves.
By considering these seven points you will improve safety associated with using tools in the workplace, therefore protecting operators. An additional benefit to these responsible practices is that you will improve efficiency too!
Noise and vibration levels are factors to consider when choosing the tool to use for your application. Usually, when using keys below ¾”, operators are more sensitive to noise. However, above 3/4”, vibrations are more important to ponder.
Try it out
Knowing what you need to consider when looking for the right impact wrench for your application is a good start, but sometimes reviewing
technical values is not enough to enable a well-informed purchase decision. To ensure the tool can meet your needs, it is always a good idea
to discuss your requirements with the manufacturer and request a trial. Trying the tool out in your target application will give you
confidence that it is a good fit for the task, the environment and ultimately, the way you work.
Browse our Air tools here
CP7769 Heavy Duty 3/4" Impact Wrench, Max Torque 1950 Nm
$1,095.00 NZD exc.
$1,259.25 NZD inc.
$1,259.25 NZD inc.
CP7763 3/4" Super Duty Impact Wrench, Max Torque 1,630 Nm
$948.27 NZD exc.
$1,090.51 NZD inc.
$1,090.51 NZD inc.
CP7762 3/4" Stubby Impact Wrench, Max Torque 1420 Nm
$820.87 NZD exc.
$944.00 NZD inc.
$944.00 NZD inc.
CP7737 1/2" Angle Impact Wrench, Max Torque 300 Nm
$500.00 NZD exc.
$575.00 NZD inc.
$575.00 NZD inc.
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PIT TOOLS LU-9040H 90 Series 18 Gauge Narrow Crown Stapler
$414.03 NZD exc.
$476.13 NZD inc.
$476.13 NZD inc.
PIT TOOLS LU-50F Combination Brad Nailer - Narrow Crown Stapler
$390.80 NZD exc.
$449.42 NZD inc.
$449.42 NZD inc.
CP9882 Compact Air Riveter | 1,000 kg Pulling Load | 3/16" Capacity
$262.80 NZD exc.
$302.22 NZD inc.
$302.22 NZD inc.
PIT TOOLS LU-9032 90 Series 18 Gauge Narrow Crown Stapler
$241.52 NZD exc.
$277.75 NZD inc.
$277.75 NZD inc.
PIT TOOLS LU-9025 90 Series 18 Gauge Narrow Crown Stapler
$183.27 NZD exc.
$210.76 NZD inc.
$210.76 NZD inc.
PIT Tools Deluxe Medium-Duty Gravity Spray Gun | PN: FR107
$175.20 NZD exc.
$201.48 NZD inc.
$201.48 NZD inc.
PIT TOOLS LU-8016AC.1 80 Series Fine Wire Stapler
$161.01 NZD exc.
$185.16 NZD inc.
$185.16 NZD inc.
EMAX 3/8" Air Drill Gun Heavy Duty | PN: KL-304
$153.30 NZD exc.
$176.29 NZD inc.
$176.29 NZD inc.
YD102 - Pit Tools Spray Gun Industrial (Suction Type)
$149.51 NZD exc.
$171.94 NZD inc.
$171.94 NZD inc.
PIT Tools Tyre Inflator W/ Gauge 11kg- 11 bar (160 psi - 1100 KPA) | PN: AA-6005
$112.63 NZD exc.
$129.52 NZD inc.
$129.52 NZD inc.
Chicago Pneumatic Extended Length Silenced Air Blower Gun | PN: 6158112720
$54.75 NZD exc.
$62.96 NZD inc.
$62.96 NZD inc.
Chicago Pneumatic Standard Air Blower Gun | PN: 6158112700
$54.75 NZD exc.
$62.96 NZD inc.
$62.96 NZD inc.
3 in 1 Tyre Inflator 1/4 " | 3 Function Tyre Pressure Gauge | PN: AA-6000A
$37.23 NZD exc.
$42.81 NZD inc.
$42.81 NZD inc.
PIT Tools Air Blower Duster Gun 30cm | PN: HBB-30
$26.28 NZD exc.
$30.22 NZD inc.
$30.22 NZD inc.
Do you have an idea for our #expertcorner? Let us know!
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Who we are and how Ash Air can help your business!
Ash Air has been around in New Zealand since 1979, and we’ve grown into a nationwide company with international support and a reputation for quality and reliability.We look after all things compressed air for your business!
- Reciprocating, Screw, air compressors
- Vacuum pumps
- Nitrogen
- An extensive line of air treatment components
Ash Air's range of Chicago Pneumatic, Alup, Pneumatech, and Quincy compressors are used extensively around the world in industries ranging from oil and gas to food, automotive and farming, and we bring you these world class compressors here in the land of the long white cloud.Our technicians are compressed air equipment experts and are dedicated to addressing customer needs. Supported by a 13 locations nationwide, Ash Air offers one of the widest selections of compressed air equipment and parts available today in New Zealand.
Reliability and Efficiency
With Ash Air compressors, you can count on reliability and high performance for even the most demanding applications. We focus our efforts on the following:
- Increasing uptime
- Reducing unexpected repairs
- Reducing energy consumption
- Improving the cleanliness of compressed air
Talk to the team today:
Read more from our #expertcorner
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Maintenance budget: 8 factors to consider
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The air dyer is one of the most ignored cooler in the system. A dirty condenser will cause water in the lines, or worse it will cause complete dryer failure. Read More…
Why Replace CO2 with Nitrogen in your Brewery
Using nitrogen is not about fully replacing CO2, but it can reduce their consumption of CO2 by close to 70%. Using nitrogen is about sustainability. Creating your own nitrogen is easy and will reduce the use of a greenhouse gas, which is better for the environment. It will also save you money as early as month one adding that savings to your bottom line. Read More…
What do I need to know about ICONS?
ICONS: Intelligent Connectivity System: The insight into your compressed air system, wherever you are. Learn More about ICONS in this article here! Read More…
A question that is occasionally asked by our customers to Ash Air is 'what is the cost of compressed air?' This article looks at the product costs involved with compressed air, as well as minimising the energy cost of compressors and cost allocation. When looking at these factors, we need to realise what causes dropped efficiency of your compressor, leading to increased costs of compressed air. Read More…
How to avoid falling objects when working at heights
You may have great fall protection measures in place to keep employees safe when working at height, but what about their co-workers below? Dropped tools and other falling objects are a major hazard – and one that isn’t always fully addressed. Read More…
Providing a safe working environment for operators is essential, especially when using pneumatic tools and compressed air. If there is a failure in the air network and the hose is not adequately clamped, the resulting whiplash could be devastating. Failure to follow best practice can result in injuries, associated production downtime and decreased productivity. Read More…
Why do I need a dryer for my compressor?
A common questions asked is why do I need an air dryer for my compressor? Typically, air compressors produce water, and although the
water can be drained, there can still be aerosol and vapour droplets that are present. This is because water cannoet be compressed. Water
can damage your compressor by corroding the valves, pipes and machinery controls, which will cost you time and money to resolve. In
the long run, the cost of a new compressor is a small price to pay compared to the loss of production that could potentially arise due
to water damage in your compressor.
Read More…
What are some preventable causes of air compressor failure?
Air compressors can fail for an assortment of different reasons: Normal wear and tear, lifespan and age of the unit, poor maintenance, power surge, install issues are just a few the come to mind. Check out this blog to find out our top 7 tips to ensure your compressor is looked after! Read More…
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Simple Ways to Reduce Your Compressed Air Costs?
Air compressors use considerable volumes of energy during a typical work cycle. When you add up all the expenses of operating a facility, any savings can help you boost your bottom line. Read More…
What Should You Know When Buying a Compressor for the First Time?
If you have never bought a rotary screw air compressor before; do the following. Add up the air consumption of all the equipment at your shop. That will be the amount of air your desired compressor should provide. Read More…
How to Know When Your Industrial Air Compressor Needs Servicing
Knowing the telltale signs of wear and tear, understanding your product’s specifications and usability guidelines, and knowing when it’s prudent to call in repairs are skills that could save you a lot of time, effort, and money in the long term. Read More…
One-stage vs Multi-stage Compressor
Find out the difference between a one-stage compressor and a multi-stage compressor. Read More…
How do I winterise my air compressor?
That cold, rainy, and in some places icey New Zealand winter is upon us, and with the following air compressor tips, your air system will be prepared with the preferred temperatures, despite the weather outside. Regardless of whether or not it actually snows or freezes up where you live, most winterisation service recommendations are also basic, solid maintenance procedures that will help extend the life and operational efficiencies of air compressors regardless of whether you live in Queenstown or Northland. Read More…
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How to find the better desiccant dryer
The right desiccant dryer with quality desiccant will improve dryer performance and lifetime and will reduce energy and service costs. Read More…
How to Find the Best Air Compressor for Painting Cars
If you're wondering what an air compressor actually is, you've come to the right place. Simply, air compressors convert power in to air that is pressurised which is then used to power air tools such as spray guns. Air compressors are used in a wide range of applications, so naturally if you want one that will be designed for spray painting your vehicle, you want a compressor specifically made for spray guns! This way your compressor will be able to provide the right amount of power to perform the job. Read More…
How to Optimise Compressor Operating Costs
Compressed air plays a fundamental role in industrial activities. Depending on the type of application, the energy cost of producing compressed air can be very high. Below are some tips to save on you compressor bill. Read More…
Upgrading Your Compressor: When is the Right Time?
Air Compressors are essential tools in a variety of industrial settings. No matter what industry you are in having a reliable air compressor can be a crucial part of getting the job done efficiently. However, like an investment, air compressors require upkeep and maintenance, and eventually will need to be upgraded. But how do you know when it’s time to upgrade your air compressor? Here are some things you need to consider. Read More…
Choosing the right assist gas in laser cutting: nitrogen or oxygen
When it comes to laser cutting and other industrial processes, the choice of assist gas is crucial in achieving optimal results. Nitrogen and oxygen are commonly utilized as assist gases, each with its own unique properties and applications. Understanding the characteristics of both gases, will help you to make an informed decision to ensure precision, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness in your operations. Read More…
Controlling your nitrogen purity made easy
On-site nitrogen generators have many benefits over bottled gas. One is that they allow you to select your nitrogen purity. Here is how. Read More…
What are Mobile Compressors used for?
Mobile air compressors are portable, towable compressors particularly useful for applications that suit the construction and roading industry! You'll often see a mobile compressor being used for sandblasting, irrigation blow-outs, and for quarrying tools such as pneumatic block cutters and rock drills. Read More…
Compressed air so portable it even reaches the moon.
Did you know that Chicago Pneumatic helped man land on the moon? Notice in this photo of the Apollo 11 landing what appear to be "soccer balls" on top of the capsule. They were inflated through a compressor specially developed by Chicago Pneumatic for NASA. Read More…
Where Should I Install my Air Dryer?
Your company purchased an air dryer for your compressor, now where should you install it? One of the most common things we see in the industry are air dryers being stored on top of the compressors. Seems like a wasted space not being used on top of the compressor, right? Wrong. Read More…
When using air compressors, there are many variables that are integral to the quality and effectiveness of your compressed air. When dryer air is necessary, being able to constantly and accurately monitor dew points can be a critical factor to your operation. Read More…
Why Does A Brewery Need Compressed Air?
Compressed air plays an integral role in breweries both large and small around the world. From start to finish, all details in the brewing process are managed in fine detail and having the right air compressor is no exception. Read More…
How is Nitrogen Used in the Coffee Industry?
We Kiwi's love our Coffee! Coffee, like all other food & beverage products, must go through a preservation process to keep the beans fresh during storage and packaging before they reach the consumer. Coffee that is not properly stored after it is roasted will lose a large amount of carbon dioxide, which lessens its' flavor and speeds up the staling process. One of the most common ways to preserve the freshness of coffee is the use of nitrogen gas. Learn more here: Read More…
How Can I Save on Energy Costs by Using a Screw Compressor?
Air compressors are helpful for an enormous range of applications such as air filling, packaging, tools, HVAC control, and more! One possible drawback is the amount of electricity they use; air compressors can be a huge drain on energy if used inefficiency... Read More…
Which material of pipes should I use for my Air Compressor System?
Air compressors create the energy used by pneumatic tools and processes throughout your compressed air system. The component that connects everything together is the piping. It is very important to choose the right compressed air pipe to avoid pressure loss, rust and other problems. Read More…
Why Do I Need a Back-up Air Compressor?
We get it, buying an air compressor is a big financial decision. And now we are suggesting that you need two air compressors, not just one. Ask yourself one question- Can your business still run if your air compressor goes down? Read More…
Keep It Down – Air Compressor Noise Reduction
It’s no secret – air compressors are excellent sources of energy. Not only do they power essential manufacturing elements and applications, but the heat generated as a result of the compressed air processes can be used as a byproduct that offsets other energy costs. However, there’s another form of energy that is also a consequence of the air compression process – sound. Read More…
How can I maximise the performance of my compressor?
Maintenance is key to continuing the performance of your air compressor. Continue to read about maximising the performance and longevity of your compressor and some air compressor maintenance tips! Read More…
When to use E-Stop on an air Compressor?
The emergency stop, "e-stop", is for true emergency situations only. When hitting the e-stop, all power is halted from the machine
and the unload process isn't achieved. The emergency stop button is intended to help with possibly hazardous situations that are developing.
Common conditions of having to use the e-stop is the misuse of the equipment in ways that weren’t intended, predictable failures not
addressed or failing to consider all the foreseeable uses of the compressor.
Read More…
