Rotary hammers SDS-Max: features, types and tips for choosing

Today, no construction work is complete without a modern and versatile rotary hammer. This device is presented on the market in a huge assortment, but the rotary hammer with the SDS-Max chuck deserves special attention. It is the most powerful and has a long service life.

Rock drill models equipped with SDS-Max chucks have a high impact force, so they allow you to quickly and efficiently drill holes in slabs of any material. As a rule, they are purchased for large-scale construction work. If it is planned to do cosmetic repairs in the house or apartment, then it makes no sense to choose such power devices.

Devices that meet the standard SDS-Max requirements typically have an impact force of 7 to 10 Joules, and their performance is 1700 watts. Thanks to this power, the device can create a frequency range of 600 o / s. Since such equipment is highly functional, its weight often exceeds 10 kg. To make the workflow comfortable, many manufacturers complement rock drills with special handles. They allow not only to conveniently carry the equipment, but also to support it while drilling holes.

The SDS-Max chuck significantly expands and improves the technical capabilities of the rotary hammer. This mechanism allows you to complete the tool with various attachments, the diameter of which may even exceed 160 mm. The drill fixing system is practically no different from conventional devices of this type - it is convenient and simple. Such perforators can differ not only in appearance, but also in operating modes, power supply system. Therefore, before making a choice in favor of this or that model, it is necessary to take into account all the characteristics and purpose of the device.

Perforators of the SDS-Max type have special operational and design properties, therefore they are referred to a narrow group of equipment. These tools are of two classes: mains and cordless. Rock drills equipped with a battery pack are considered self-contained - they can be used on any construction site (regardless of whether there is access to power supply or not).

Rotary hammers, which are produced with a keyless chuck of the SDS-Max type, cannot be afforded by all construction crews, since the device is expensive. Therefore, before purchasing such an important tool, it is necessary to weigh all its pros and cons and give preference to a universal model. Depending on the weight, such rock drills are divided into three groups: 5, 7 and 11 kg. If a small amount of work is planned, then you can buy a device weighing up to 7 kg. It is practically in no way inferior to heavy models, but it costs much less and allows you to additionally use not only the SDS-Max adapter, but also SDS +.

To choose the right rotary hammer SDS-Max, you must also take into account and compare the main characteristics of the models that manufacturers offer. Today, devices of several brands are very popular.

• Makita HR4011C. This device appeared on the market recently, but has already received many positive reviews due to its high performance and affordable price. Its impact energy is 9.5 J, power is 1100 W. With this tool, it is easy to drill holes with a diameter of up to 45 mm, in addition, hollow drill bits for drilling with a diameter of 105 mm are included in the package. The device also has an anti-vibration system and a speed control (from 235 to 450 rpm). The plastic case is protected by special metal inserts that increase its strength.

• DeWALT D 25600 K. This model features a unique gearbox housing that, thanks to its advanced design, does not need to be removed for initial service. The power of the device reaches 1150 W, and the impact force is 10 J. Manufacturers have supplemented this perforator with shock-absorbing pads and an indicator that informs about the need to replace brushes and service maintenance. Rotary hammer weight - 6.8 kg. In addition, the equipment includes a handy suitcase for attachments.
• HITACHI DH40MRY. This model has an attractive case design. The shock energy is 10.5 J, the motor power is 950 W, the speed of revolutions can reach from 240 to 480 r / m. It adjusts automatically. With this hammer drill, you can drill holes up to 4 cm in diameter. The hollow drill bits, which are included with the device, allow you to drill holes up to 105 mm.

• Hilti TE 76-ATS. It is a high quality device that can be purchased at an average cost. The main advantage in the device is considered to be its super-powerful motor, its performance is 1400 W. The design of the device also includes a control system for the rotation of the nozzles, which completely makes the work safe and protects against injury when the drill is jammed. With an impact energy of 8.3 J, this hammer drill can drill holes from 40 to 150 mm. The weight of the device is 7.9 kg, it is additionally equipped with anti-vibration handles and an automatic indicator for warning about brush wear.
• AEG PN 11 E. Belongs to the class of professional tools, in terms of functionality and quality, the perforator does not differ from heavy and medium-sized devices. German manufacturers have made it easy to use, since the device's motor is located horizontally. Thanks to this rotary hammer, you can work in confined spaces. Its power is 1700 W, the impact force is 27 J, and its weight is 11.8 kg.

All of the above perforators are characterized by positive properties, therefore they are excellent for performing work of any complexity. Since the cost of such equipment is considered above average, when choosing a particular model, you must also pay attention to some points.

• Equipment. It plays a huge role, since if all the attachments are available, the master will not have to spend additional funds on their purchase. Therefore, if the rotary hammer is equipped with an angle grinder, drills of various sizes, it will be an excellent choice. It is also important to have a special case in which you can not only store all the attachments, but also transport the instrument.
• Design features. Before purchasing a punch, you need to hold it in your hand and determine whether it will be comfortable to work with. Particular attention should be paid to the presence of side handles, they can be easily removed if desired.

• Additional functions. Apparatus that have a shaft speed stabilizer, a drilling depth limiter, a reverse shaft rotation, and a gearshift mechanism are considered good models. In addition, it is necessary to clarify whether the hammer drill has dust protection and an anti-vibration system.It is also important to have an anti-lock braking system, which protects the engine from burnout when the drill gets jammed.
• Performance. For voluminous work, it is best to purchase a device that can function up to 8 hours without interruption.
• Maintenance. Before purchasing a rotary hammer, you should clarify the duration of its operational warranty and service conditions.
• General characteristics. These include the number of speeds, impact force and weight. These indicators are determined by the weight of the tool - the heavier it is, the more productive it is.

In the next video you will find a great overview of SDS-Max rock drills.