Definition
A power-driven tool used to install and remove threaded fasteners by delivering a rapid series of high-torque rotational blows to the fastener rather than a steady continuous rotation. Impact wrenches may be powered by compressed air, electricity, or hydraulics, and are commonly used in aircraft maintenance for tasks such as removing wheel nuts and other high-torque fasteners.
Plain English
A power tool that loosens or tightens nuts and bolts by hammering them around in short, hard bursts instead of just spinning them.
Context Anchor
Seen in aircraft maintenance shops, especially when removing or installing hardware such as wheel nuts or other large fasteners.
Derivation
From 'impact,' meaning a forceful blow or strike. The name reflects how the tool works: it delivers its turning force in sharp, repeated impacts rather than as smooth continuous torque.
Why Pilots Care
Impact wrenches can over-torque or damage aircraft fasteners if used carelessly. Many aircraft components require a specific torque value applied with a calibrated torque wrench, not an impact tool, so knowing the difference matters during maintenance and inspection.
Intuition Check
“Impact” does not mean the wrench is used after an accident or crash. Here it means the tool applies quick hitting pulses while it turns.
Example Sentence 1
The mechanic used an impact wrench to break loose the wheel nuts during the tire change.
Example Sentence 2
After torquing the propeller bolts by hand, the technician finished the job with a calibrated impact wrench.