Air Ratchets

Air ratchets – also known as pneumatic ratchet wrenches – are a vital addition to any workshop or tool kit, offering fast, controlled tightening and loosening of nuts, bolts and other threaded fasteners. Powered by compressed air, air ratchets are especially popular in automotive, manufacturing, and maintenance environments where speed and efficiency are key.

At Pipestock, we supply a high-quality range of air ratchets designed to provide reliable performance, even in tight or awkward spaces. With various drive sizes and torque outputs available, our pneumatic ratchets help reduce operator fatigue and cut down task time when compared to manual or cordless tools.

An air ratchet is a compact, powered tool used to turn fasteners using a ratcheting mechanism driven by compressed air. It performs the same function as a manual ratchet – loosening or tightening nuts and bolts – but without the need for manual cranking.

Most air ratchets are available in ¼", ⅜", and ½" drive sizes, with torque ratings typically ranging from 20Nm to over 100Nm, depending on the model. The compact size and inline handle make air ratchets particularly useful for tight spaces, such as under dashboards, inside engine bays, or within assemblies where a traditional ratchet handle wouldn’t fit.

An air ratchet operates by using compressed air to drive a small internal rotary motor. When the tool’s trigger is pressed, air flows into the motor, causing it to rotate. This rotational energy is transferred to the ratcheting output shaft, which then turns the socket attached to the drive. Here's a step-by-step explanation:

1. Compressed Air Input: Compressed air is forced into the ratchet from the compressor.
2. Trigger Operation: When the operator squeezes the trigger, a valve inside opens, allowing compressed air to flow into the internal motor.
3. Motor Action: The internal motor spins rapidly when the compressed air flows through, converting air pressure into rotational energy.
4. Gear Reduction & Torque Transfer: The spinning shaft passes through a gear reduction system (usually planetary gears), which reduces the rotation speed but increases torque.
5. Output Drive Rotation: The ratcheting head receives the torque and begins turning; the drive spins the socket that’s attached to it, loosening or tightening the fastener.

Ratchet Mechanism Enables Back-Drive-Free Use

Inside the ratchet head, a pawl-and-gear mechanism allows the drive to spin in one direction while preventing it from spinning backwards unless the direction is manually changed. This gives the tool its characteristic clicking ratchet sound when turning manually.

Reverse or Forward Operation

The forward/reverse lever (usually near the head) can be flipped to change the rotation direction of the tool. In forward mode, the tool tightens fasteners; in reverse, it loosens them.

Manual Ratcheting

When not powered, most air ratchets can still function like a manual ratchet — allowing you to hand-turn fasteners in tight spaces, using the same forward/reverse selector.

Proper maintenance is essential for the reliable performance and extended lifespan of your air ratchet. These tools are built for durability, but like all pneumatic equipment, they require regular lubrication and clean, dry air to prevent wear.

• Daily oiling: Use pneumatic air tool oil (such as ISO 22) before and after use. Simply add a few drops into the air inlet to lubricate internal parts. Alternatively, use an in-line lubricator or filter-regulator-lubricator unit to maintain clean and lubricated airflow.
• Check air lines: Ensure hoses are free from leaks, kinks, and moisture. This is also vital to ensure user safety.
• Drain compressors daily: Prevent water vapour from entering and corroding the tool and rusting the compressor tank.
• Store properly: Keep the tool in a dry place and ideally in a case when not in use.
• Inspect regularly: Check the housing, trigger and drive mechanism for signs of wear or looseness. Replace worn parts as needed.
• Operate within rated pressure: Most air ratchets are designed for 90 PSI (6.2 bar). Excess pressure may cause internal damage; always check the manufacturer's guide.