Breakthroughs in Hammer Designs

by Rebecca Wasieleski
Created: September 20, 2010

Rotary hammers incorporate various features to improve ergonomics and enhance performance, including anti-vibration technology, dust control and cordless designs.

Systems are available to reduce vibration in rotary hammers. Makita's HR4010C 1 9/16-inch Rotary Hammer features AVT (Anti-Vibration Technology), an internal counterbalance system.
Systems are available to reduce vibration in rotary hammers. Makita's HR4010C 1 9/16-inch Rotary Hammer features AVT (Anti-Vibration Technology), an internal counterbalance system.
For complete portability, some manufacturers offer self-contained dust extraction units. This Cordless SDS Dust Extraction System with HEPA filter is designed for use with the DeWalt 36-volt SDS...
For complete portability, some manufacturers offer self-contained dust extraction units. This Cordless SDS Dust Extraction System with HEPA filter is designed for use with the DeWalt 36-volt SDS rotary hammer.
Cordless rotary hammers, such as Bosch's new RHH180, enable work to be performed in tight spaces or in remote areas where power is not accessible.
Cordless rotary hammers, such as Bosch's new RHH180, enable work to be performed in tight spaces or in remote areas where power is not accessible.

It wasn't until the rise of lithium-ion battery technology about six years ago that cordless rotary hammers became a reality.

"One of the key benefits of lithium-ion is it allows you to put a lot of power in a compact size," says Nick Feld, product manager for cordless hammers at Bosch. "This introduced a new world of tools -- particularly rotary hammers -- where we could provide near-corded performance in a cordless tool."

Several manufacturers now offer cordless rotary hammers for users who need to "cut the cord," so to speak.

When considering a cordless rotary hammer purchase, Ethan Haughawout, Makita product manager - cordless products, says you must weigh the benefits and match the right tool to the application. An 18-volt lithium-ion rotary hammer offers an optimal power-to-weight ratio for a range of concrete drilling applications, including overhead work, while 36-volt rotary hammers deliver corded speed with the convenience of a cordless tool.

Feld elaborates, "Contractors who are using corded tools are performing applications that require them to drill holes all day long. On the cordless side, typically the reason for making a purchase is more for portability. They're not necessarily drilling holes all day, but working in an application where they need the convenience of a compact size and a lightweight tool, as well as good performance."

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6 Simple Rotary Hammer Maintenance Tips

The concrete working environment is a tough one on any tool. Here are a few tips to help keep your rotary hammer working efficiently.

Stop pressing so hard and let the tool do the work.
et the material you're drilling and the size of hammer determine the type of bit you use.
Wipe off any dirt and debris from the end of the bit that goes into the hammer to prevent tool holder failure and jamming.
Grease the bit shank every time you change bits to prevent premature wear of the bit holder.
Use manufacturer-recommended grease and follow weight and viscosity guidelines.
Know what your tool's LED service lights mean and follow the recommended maintenance guidelines when they alert you.

Rebecca Wasieleski is editor of Construction Distribution, a publication for distributors of construction supplies, tools, fasteners and related products. For more information, visit www.ConstructionDistribution. com.