Hammer drill - which one to choose and what to pay attention to?
Choosing the right hammer drill is a key step in carrying out any construction or renovation work. When buying one, it is worth paying attention to such parameters as percussion energy, which has a direct impact on the effectiveness of the tool in difficult materials, such as concrete or brick.
A more versatile solution than a standard drill, the hammer drill offers a wider range of applications. It is worth investing in a tool with power adapted to the specifics of the planned work, which will ensure not only comfort, but also satisfaction with the results of the tasks performed. In this article, we will present the key aspects you should pay attention to when buying a hammer drill.
What is a hammer drill and what is it used for?
A hammer drill is an electric tool that combines the functions of an impact hammer and a drill. It is used to drill holes in hard building materials, such as concrete, brick and stone.
The hammer drill is a powerful and versatile power tool that works well wherever it is necessary to drill in resistant and hardest materials, such as concrete, stone or brick. The basis of the hammer drill's functionality is the impact mechanism, which generates strong vibrations - the resulting percussion and impact energy allows it to easily break through the surfaces of the workpiece, making the tool indispensable for construction work. In addition to drilling holes, the hammer drill can also be used for lighter forging, which is useful when chipping tiles, forging grooves in walls or preparing surfaces for installations and other light repair work.
This tool is particularly useful in places where a traditional drill would be insufficient due to a lack of impact or less power. The hammer drill's multifunctionality is its key advantage - some models offer a non-impact mode for drilling in wood or metal, as well as a rotary mode for mixing mortar or glue.
How to use a hammer drill?
The high power and specific design of a hammer drill make proper use crucial to avoid accidents and damage to the tool or the material you are working on. Improper handling of a hammer drill can lead to serious injury, and affect the effectiveness of the work performed, so it is important to follow safety rules and master the correct technique. Here is a short guide to help you use a hammer drill safely and effectively.
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Step 1: Prepare the tool and workstation
First, take care of safety. Make sure your work area is well lit and organized to prevent accidental tripping over objects. Always wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from debris, and gloves to give you a better grip and protect your hands. Before starting the hammer drill, make sure the cables are in good condition and the tool is working properly.
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Step 2: Selection and installation of the drill bit
Choosing the right drill bit is crucial to the efficiency of your work. For hard materials, such as concrete or stone, carbide drills are best suited for impact-resistant work. To install the drill, insert it into the chuck of the hammer drill and tighten it according to the manufacturer's instructions. Remember to always make sure the drill bit is securely fastened, as a loose drill bit can jam or even break during operation.
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Step 3: Set the operating mode
Hammer drills usually have several operating modes: non-impact drilling, impact drilling and forging. Non-impact drilling works well for soft materials such as wood or metal. Percussion drilling is designed for hard surfaces - such as concrete or brick - and combines rotary and percussive motion to more effectively break through the material. The forging mode will work well for light demolition work, such as tile chipping, as well as construction work.
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Step 4: Start drilling
Position the hammer drill at a right angle to the surface, which will make it easier to drill accurately and evenly. Start slowly so that the drill bit will penetrate the material well. Avoid pushing too hard, as this can lead to overheating or breaking the drill bit. Let the hammer drill work on its own, only guiding it gently to make efficient hole drilling. If you want to get a hole with a plotted depth, a drilling depth stop will help. The speed control will also allow you to adjust the operation of the device to your needs.
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Step 5: Control and maintain stability
When working, hold the tool with both hands, which provides greater stability and control of the hammer drill, especially when the impact is intense. While drilling, remove the drill bit from the hole from time to time to remove the dust created, which will reduce the risk of blockage and provide better cooling. This will help the equipment run more efficiently and last longer.
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Step 6: Finish the job and clean up
When you have finished drilling, turn off the hammer drill and set it down on a stable surface. Remove the drill bit and clean both the tool and the drill bit of any remaining dust and debris. Regular cleaning of the equipment is key to prolonging its life and keeping it in good condition.
That's it! By following these simple steps, you will be able to safely and effectively use your hammer drill for a variety of tasks.
What is the difference between a hammer drill and an impact hammer?
A rotary hammer drill and a demolition hammer are tools designed to work with hard materials, but they differ in design, function and range of applications. A hammer drill is more versatile - it combines the function of a drill and a hammer, so it works well for drilling in concrete, brick or stone, as well as for light forging, such as tile chipping. With the option of drilling with impact and drilling without impact, the hammer drill is relatively versatile and can also be used in less demanding materials, such as wood or metal.
A hammer drill is a tool with much higher percussive power, designed mainly for heavy-duty work such as wall demolition, concrete chipping and other demolition work. Unlike a hammer drill, an impact hammer does not have a rotary drilling function, so it is not used for drilling holes, but only for forging and breaking. Thanks to a special mechanism, the impact energy generates powerful vibrations that allow it to smash even very hard materials, making it a specialized and invaluable tool for demolition work.
Check out Rawlplug's hammer drill models:
Cordless hammer drills: R-PRH18-26 hammer drill, R-PRH18-24 hammer drill
Corded hammer drills: R-PCH-421350 hammer drill, R-PRH-26850 hammer drill
Cordless or corded hammer drill?
The choice between a cordless hammer drill and a corded hammer drill depends on the type of work to be done and where it is to be done. Both types of tools have their advantages and limitations.
Advantages of cordless hammer drills
Cordless hammer drills are ideal for those who value mobility and convenience. With battery power, you can move freely in the field, even in places without access to an electrical outlet. Modern lithium-ion batteries offer long working time and fast charging, making them an excellent choice for small jobs around the house and in the garden.
Advantages of corded hammer drills
Corded hammer drills have more power, making them a better choice for intensive construction and renovation work. Thanks to the constant power supply, you don't have to worry about running out of battery, which is crucial for long-term projects. In addition, they tend to be lighter, making them more comfortable to use.
When to choose a cordless and when to choose a corded one?
A cordless hammer drill will be a better choice if you plan to work in the field or in hard-to-reach places. A corded hammer drill, on the other hand, will work well for tasks that require a lot of power, such as intensive drilling in hard materials. Choose cordless hammer drills for convenience and mobility, and network hammers for heavier construction work.
What to look for when buying a hammer drill?
A good hammer drill tailored to your needs is a key step to ensure comfort and efficiency of work. Here is a list of the most important parameters to consider when choosing and buying a hammer drill tailored to the task.
Device power
The power of a rotary hammer is one of the most important factors affecting its performance. Typically measured in watts (W) or volts (V), it is based on the electric motor of a rotary hammer. More power allows you to drill faster and easier in hard materials such as concrete or stone. When choosing a rotary hammer, it is worth paying attention to devices with a minimum power of 800 W, which ensures good performance in most standard construction works.
Impact frequency
The impact frequency, measured in beats per minute (bpm), tells you how often a rotary hammer generates during operation. Higher impact frequencies (e.g. above 4000 bpm) allow for efficient drilling in hard materials. However, it is worth remembering that the optimal value depends on the type of work performed – lower values are enough for lighter tasks.
Single Impact Power (Impact Energy)
The power of a single impact (impact energy), measured in joules (J), determines the force of the hammer drill hitting the material. Higher impact power allows for more effective action. For construction work, it is a good idea to look for hammer drills that offer an impact energy of 2 J, which will ensure efficiency in demanding tasks.
Max. totation speed
Maximum RPM, measured in revolutions per minute (rpm), is important when you plan to drill in a variety of materials. A higher speed (e.g. above 1000 rpm) is beneficial for drilling in wood or metals, while a lower speed with hammer function is better for drilling in hard materials. It is worth choosing a model with speed control, which will allow you to adapt it to specific tasks.
Vibration level during chiseling and drilling
Vibration is an important factor affecting the comfort of work. Rotary hammers with lower vibration levels (e.g. less than 10 m/s²) will be more comfortable to use, which will reduce hand fatigue, especially during prolonged work. It is worth investing in a model equipped with a vibration reduction system, which will increase comfort and safety during work.
Weight
The weight of the hammer drill affects its mobility and comfort of use. Lighter models (about 2-3 kg) are more handy and comfortable to use, which is important during long-term work. On the other hand, heavier models (over 3 kg) usually offer more power and durability, but may be less comfortable in longer use. It is important to choose a hammer drill that will be suitable for the type of work and comfortable to use.
SDS max and SDS plus chuck
Choose a rotary hammer with an SDS max or SDS plus chuck, which allow you to easily change accessories without the need for additional tightening. The SDS chuck type allows for quick drill bit changes and ensures their stability during operation, increasing precision and safety.
Other features
It is also worth paying attention to additional functions that make it easier to use the tool and increase safety - the ability to change the direction of rotation, various operating modes, overload clutch (motor overload limiter), vibration reduction function, start mitigation systems, chisel position setting, LED illuminating the work area or ergonomic handles. Particularly noteworthy is the vibration reduction function, which is useful in very powerful machines. When choosing a rotary hammer, also check the availability of accessories and the warranty, which may indicate the quality and durability of the device.
Which rotary hammer to choose?
Choosing the right hammer drill should be adapted to the nature of the work being carried out. Different requirements are placed on a tool intended for domestic use and different requirements for equipment used in professional construction applications. Here are the most important parameters to pay attention to when choosing a rotary hammer and make a good decision.
Which hammer drill for home use?
For home DIYers and people who need a hammer drill for occasional work around the house, it is recommended to choose cordless models or less demanding corded hammer drills with a power of 600 to 800 W. Such devices should offer a hammer function, which will make the work easier. It is also good for the equipment to be light and handy, which will make it easier to work in hard-to-reach places. Models with variable speed and interchangeable SDS drills will be more versatile and will allow for a variety of applications, from drilling holes to chiseling.
Which rotary hammer for professional use?
For demanding users - construction teams and professional contractors - the best hammer drill is the one with higher power (over 800 W) and high impact energy (ud min 2 J). These devices should be equipped with features adapted to intensive use, under heavy loads, such as powerful motors, vibration reduction systems and the ability to operate in different modes. It is also a good idea to invest in models with SDS Max chuck, which provide quick drill bit changes and greater stability during operation. Rotary hammers for professional use must be durable, reliable and able to work in harsh environments, also prepared for longer tool life.
Choose accessories for your work:
Check out the range of accessories for power tools offered by Rawlplug.
Accessories for a hammer drill – what should you know?
The right selection of accessories for a rotary hammer drill is crucial for the efficiency and comfort of work. The variety of available accessories means that any task, regardless of its scale and type of material, can be performed precisely and quickly. Here are the most important accessories to keep in mind when working with a rotary hammer:
Hammer drill bits
Hammer drill bits are key tools designed for drilling in a variety of materials, such as concrete, brick, wood or metal. Choosing the right drill bit is crucial for work efficiency; Different materials require different types of drill bits, which ensures optimal performance and tool life. For hard materials such as concrete, for example, it is recommended to use carbide drill bits, which can withstand high loads.
Hammer drill chisels
Hammer drill chisels are used for chiseling and removing material, making them an ideal tool for demolition work and for creating holes or gaps in concrete. Thanks to them, you can effectively remove unnecessary material and give the surface the right shape.
Hammer drill flat chisels
Hammer drill flat chisels are accessories that are perfect for precision cutting and modeling of materials such as stone or hard concrete. They enable accurate forming and cutting in difficult-to-machine materials, which can be crucial in a variety of construction and renovation projects.
Choosing the right accessories for the job not only makes your job easier, but also delivers better results and increases tool life. Investing in high-quality equipment is a guarantee of efficiency and satisfaction with the results of work.