Tool specialist Chicago Pneumatic has issued some sound advice to workshops on the importance of making the right choice between impact sockets and regular sockets. 

The Chicago Pneumatic technical experts say the main difference is wall thickness, but it is also very easy to differentiate between visually as impact sockets are matt while most of the standard sockets are in a glossy finish.

As well as the matt black appearance and thicker wall, impact sockets are also made form Molybdenum chromium steel and are designed with a cross hole in the handle end, compatible with a retaining pin and ring, or locking pin anvil. This makes them suitable for power tool use.

Regular, or non-impact sockets, will have a chromed and glossy finish and are made from chrome vanadium steel with thinner walls. They have no cross hole in the handle end and should only be used with hand tools.

The differing designs are mainly down to safety considerations. Impact sockets are designed to support and absorb the momentary shock of each impact, therefore preventing cracks or breaks, and prolonging the life of the socket. If a regular socket is used on powered tools, the possibility of ruptures is very high. This could result in a serious safety risk for everyone in the same work space as any cracks in the socket can make it explode at any time, causing severe injuries to any operator.

Additionally impact sockets provide a perfect fit to powered tools, and therefore will avoid unusual deformation or damages to the tool’s square drive. This also makes the work process more comfortable and efficient.