An electric hammer, also known as a rotary hammer or hammer drill, is a powerful power tool designed for heavy-duty drilling and chiseling tasks. It combines rotational motion with a powerful percussive action to break through hard materials like concrete, stone, and masonry. It is widely used in construction, demolition, and renovation projects for tasks such as drilling holes for anchors, breaking up concrete slabs, and chiseling out old mortar.
The electric hammer has evolved from traditional manual hammers and early power tools. With the development of electric motors and percussion mechanisms, electric hammers were developed to handle tougher materials more efficiently. Initially, they were mainly used in industrial and construction settings. Over time, improvements in technology have made them more accessible and versatile, with enhanced power, lighter weight, and better ergonomics, making them suitable for both professional and DIY use.
The main purpose of an electric hammer is to perform heavy-duty tasks that require significant force to break through hard and dense materials. It is used for creating holes in concrete for installing fixtures, breaking up hard surfaces for demolition, and removing tiles or old materials. It offers a more efficient and less labor-intensive alternative to manual methods, enabling faster completion of construction and renovation projects.
The electric hammer operates by using an electric motor to drive a piston or striker mechanism. The motor rotates a cam or eccentric shaft, which converts the rotational motion into a powerful reciprocating motion. This reciprocating motion creates a percussive force that is transmitted to the drill bit or chisel, allowing it to penetrate hard materials. Some electric hammers also have a rotational function, which can be used for drilling holes, similar to a regular drill but with added percussive force. The combination of rotation and percussion enables the tool to break through tough materials more effectively than traditional drills or hammers.