Why Choose Air Tools Over Electric?

When it comes to choosing power tools, there are two common types to choose from.

First, there are air tools, also known as pneumatic tools, which are powered by compressed air. Second, there are electric tools which are powered by electricity which either comes from a plug socket or a battery.

How do you know which type you should pick though? They both come with their advantages and disadvantages, so here is a guide to help you decide.

A Guide to Choosing the Right Power Tool

How Much Power Do You Need?

Power is one of the most important factors when it comes to choosing tools; you need to make sure you have enough torque. Both air and electric are powerful and are able to perform most jobs that you need, but pneumatic ones do hold an advantage.

Air tools pack more of a punch than electric tools in general, but they also have the ability to adjust their power and their delivery of compressed air. If you require more or less horsepower, this can be facilitated with greater simplicity and consistency. 

How Do You Want to Use Your Tool?

The comfort and feel of your power tool are also paramount. If you are using power tools day in and day out, you need to make sure that you can do so with ease. Generally speaking, air tools are a lot lighter, so they will not weight you down whilst working, and they produce lower levels of vibration.

However, there is one drawback that could influence your choice. Electric tools are available with both corded and cordless options; cordless design gives you the most freedom. Unfortunately, pneumatic ones always have to be connected to a compressed air system.

How Much Do You Want to Pay?

Cost is an important factor for any industry as you don’t want to be paying fortunes for power tools. Simply put, electric tools are less expensive than air tools because you have to purchase an air compressor as well as a pneumatic tool in order for it to function.

Individually, air tools are cheaper than electric but it’s the compressed air system counterpart than increases the price. However, they can be seen as an investment because once you buy one air compressor, this can be used for other pneumatic tools – They also have a longer lifespan.

How Energy Efficient Do You Want to Be?

The energy efficiency of your tools also contributes to how much it will cost you. Compressed air systems have developed dramatically over the years, now offering a huge number of high-efficiency air compressors to reduce energy consumption when using pneumatic tools.

Compared to electric tools, air tools offer a better power-to-weight ratio and also the power that is input is directly applied whereas only around half of the power that is input into electric tools is directly applied.

All Your Air Power Tool Needs at Air Power East

As you can see, pneumatic tools definitely come out on top when it comes to choosing power tools. No matter what job you are performing, air tools are a great choice and a great investment; maintenance requirements are also less demanding than electric tools.

Let us see how we can help you with your air tool needs at Air Power East. Contact us today for more information.