How to Use an Air Hammer (Step by Step Guide)
Tools and Tips

How to Use an Air Hammer (Step by Step Guide)

By the end of this article, you will know how to use an air hammer safely and easily.

Pneumatic hammers have many uses and come in handy in a variety of situations. With the pneumatic hammer, you can cut stone and easily cut or break metal objects. Without proper knowledge about how to use a hammer, you can easily injure yourself, so you need to be well versed with this tool.

In general, use an air hammer with an air compressor for any task:

  • Choose the right chisel/hammer for your task.
  • Insert the bit into the air hammer.
  • Connect the air hammer and air compressor.
  • Wear eye and ear protection.
  • Start your task.

You will find more detailed information below.

Many uses for a pneumatic hammer

An air hammer, also known as an air chisel, has many uses for carpenters. With an adaptable set of tools and various execution methods, these pneumatic hammers are available with the following attachments.

  • hammer bits
  • chisel bits
  • Tapered punches
  • Various separating and cutting tools

You can use these attachments for:

  • Loosen rusted and frozen rivets, nuts and pivot pins.
  • Cut through exhaust pipes, old mufflers and sheet metal.
  • Leveling and shaping aluminum, steel and sheet metal
  • Wood chisel
  • Individual ball joints
  • Breaking and dismantling bricks, tiles and other masonry materials
  • Break up the solution

Do I need an air compressor for my air hammer?

Well, it depends on the task.

If you plan on using your air hammer continuously for a long period of time, you may need an air compressor. For example, Trow and Holden pneumatic hammers require a significant amount of air supply. These air hammers require 90-100 psi air pressure. So having an air compressor at home is not a bad idea.

With that in mind, I hope to teach you how to use an air hammer with an air compressor in this guide.

Easy Steps to Get Started with an Air Hammer

In this guide, I will first focus on connecting a chisel or hammer. Then I will explain how you can connect an air hammer to an air compressor.

Step 1 - Choose the right chisel/hammer

Choosing the right bit is entirely up to the task.

If you plan on hitting something with a hammer, you will need to use a hammer bit. If you plan to gouge, use a chisel from your kit.

Or use the metal leveling tool. With that in mind, here are a few guidelines you should follow when choosing any type of bit.

  • Do not use worn or cracked bits.
  • Only use a bit that is ideal for an air hammer.

Step 2 - Insert the bit into the air hammer

Then get the user manual for your air hammer model. Find the "How to Insert a Bit" section and read the instructions carefully.

Remember about: It is important to read the instructions. Depending on the type of air hammer, you may need to change your bit setting technique.

Now lubricate the air hammer and bit with suitable oil. You can find this type of oil at a hardware store.

Then insert the bit into the air hammer and tighten the cartridges.

Step 3 - Connect the Air Hammer and Air Compressor

For this demo, I am using a portable air compressor. It has a capacity of 21 gallons, which is more than enough for my air hammer. If you are using a more powerful air hammer, you may need a larger air compressor. Therefore, always check the PSI rating of the air tool against the PSI rating of the air compressor.

Next, check the relief valve. This valve releases compressed air in the event of an emergency, such as unsafe tank air pressure. So, make sure the safety valve is working properly. To check this, pull the valve towards you. If you hear the sound of compressed air being released, the valve is working.

Tip of the day: Remember to check the relief valve at least once a week when using the air compressor.

Hose line setup

Next, select the appropriate coupling and plug for your air hammer. Use an industrial connector for this demo. Connect the connector and plug. Then connect the filter and other parts together.

The filter can remove dirt and moisture from the compressed air before it enters the tool. Finally, connect the hose to the air hammer. Connect the other end of the hose to the filtered line of the air compressor. (1)

Step 4 - Wear protective gear

Before using an air hammer, you need to put on the appropriate protective equipment.

  • Wear protective gloves to protect your hands.
  • Wear safety goggles to protect your eyes.
  • Wear earplugs or earmuffs to protect your ears.

remember, that wearing earplugs or headphones is a mandatory step when using an air hammer.

Step 5 - Start Your Task

If you follow the above four steps correctly, you can start working with an air chisel.

Always start on low settings. Gradually increase the speed if necessary. Also, hold the air hammer firmly while it is in operation. For example, when you use a hammer at high speed, the air hammer generates significant force. So, hold on tight to the hammer. (2)

Be careful: Check the locking mechanism between the pieces and the bat. Without a proper locking mechanism, the bit can fly unceremoniously.

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Recommendations

(1) humidity - https://www.epa.gov/mold/what-are-main-ways-control-moisture-your-home

(2) amount of force - https://study.com/academy/lesson/what-is-the-formula-for-force-definition-lesson-quiz.html

Video links

Tool Time Tuesday - The Air Hammer

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