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November 24, 2021

How Does a Pneumatic Air Tool Work?

A pneumatic air tool is powered by compressed air. Although pneumatic air tools are lightweight, they're powerful machines meant to get specific, tough jobs done either at home or a commercial job site. Know how they work to keep safe.

What's an Air Compressor?

Pneumatic air tools are powered by air as compared to power tools that run by electricity or battery power. Almost any tool comes as pneumatic or power, with the exception of an air gun, sandblasting gun or pop riveter, for example. To run a pneumatic air tool, you need an air compressor. For do-it-yourself projects, you'll want a portable air compressor to deliver the pressurized air into the tool. Air hoses connect the air compressor tank to a filter and to the tool itself.

Why Pneumatic Tools are Used

Pneumatic air tools get the job done quicker because of the sheer power and force they offer on the job. For example, a pneumatic sander is useful for small jobs that a manual sander would take much more time to complete. A pneumatic staple gun is a common tool for the DIY toolbox for upholstery projects to trim molding. An air-powered hammer, used by DIY and professional carpenters, may be a bit costly, but you'll finish the project without sore thumbs. Air shears cut sheet metal. Air blow guns blow away dust and water.

Replacing Pneumatic Air Tool Parts

For commercial-grade pneumatic air tools, there are a few repair parts sources contractors rely on to fix various brands. Check online to make sure the sources carry parts for the brand air tool you own. Here is a sampling of sources:

Central Pneumatic Parts offers a line of air compressors, parts and tools.
Grainger Industrial Supply offers parts for Chicago Pneumatic tools, but you can also go to Chicago Pneumatic website for parts.
Texas Pneumatic Tools offers parts for a number of brands, including Chicago Pneumatic, Ingersoll-Rand, Cleco, Jet, Kent, Thor, Harper, Black + Decker and more.

What Is Pneumatic Air Tool Oil?

Pneumatic air tool oil is an all-purpose product to extend the working life of a tool, according to The Home Depot. The oil is specifically formulated for air tools and contains lubricates for the tool and solvents, rust inhibitors, antifoaming and antigumming additives to keep the tool performing well. Check if your tool requires non-detergent oil so you can add the right oil.

How to Safely Use a Pneumatic Air Tool

Working with a pneumatic air tool safely is of paramount importance. According to the online OSHA Safety Manual, here's how to stay unharmed whether you're working DIY or on a job site:

Torque: Too much or too little torque (twisting force from air) can result in injury so make sure hoses are the correct size and securely attached.
Ears: Wear hearing protection to block loud pneumatic tool noise.
Eyes: Avoid particles flying around as a result of compressed air by wearing eye protection goggles.
Grip: Make sure your hands are dry, warm and not contaminated with oil discharge so you can keep a firm grip on the moving tool to avoid hazardous and traumatic injuries.
Whipping hoses: A loosened air hose can violently whip around, causing injuries, until the air is shut off so make certain the hoses are well connected with a quick release fitting.

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