Nails are frequently used in construction, for example, to fix interlayer fireproof steel plates to structures, or to connect finishing pieces like iron or aluminum sheets directly to concrete or walls.
1. What is a Powder-Actuated Tool?
A powder-actuated tool, also known as a nail gun or nailer, is often called a “shot nail gun” because its shape and operating principle resemble those of a handgun.
It is a product of modern powder-actuated fastening technology, capable of shooting drive pins and belonging to the category of direct fastening techniques. It is an essential manual tool for carpentry, construction, and other trades.
The tool drives nails directly into substrates such as steel, concrete, masonry, or rock. It does not require an external power source like electricity or an air compressor because the powder load (cartridge) itself contains chemicals that generate an explosive propulsive force, firing the steel nail. This securely fastens components that need to be installed—such as doors, windows, insulation boards, soundproofing layers, decorations, pipes, steel elements, wood products—to the base material.
2. How a Powder-Actuated Tool Works
It is a fastening tool that uses nail cartridges, gas, or compressed air as power to drive nails into building materials.
It can be divided into two main types: direct-acting and indirect-acting tools.
Direct-acting tools have the powder gases act directly on the nail, propelling it. Consequently, the nail leaves the barrel at a very high velocity (approximately 500 meters/second) and with high kinetic energy.
Indirect-acting tools have the powder gases act not directly on the nail, but on a piston inside the tool. The energy is then transferred from the piston to the nail. Thus, the nail leaves the barrel at a lower velocity.
The velocity of a nail fired from a direct-acting tool is more than three times that from an indirect-acting tool.
3. Operational Safety Precautions
1. Operators must be trained and familiar with the tool’s principles, the performance and function of each component, its structural features, and maintenance methods. Unauthorized personnel are strictly prohibited from using it.
2. The powder-actuated tool, its attachments, cartridges, powder loads, and nails must be stored separately under the responsibility of a dedicated custodian. Users must strictly issue and receive materials based on the requisition slip quantities and must return all used and unused cartridges. Issued and returned quantities must be verified and match.
3. Before operation, a comprehensive inspection of the tool must be conducted: the outer shell and handle must be free of cracks or damage; all protective covers must be complete and secure; safety devices must be reliable.
4. The firing point should not be too close to the edge of a structure (not less than 10 cm) to prevent fragmentation of the wall material causing injury. When fastening to soft materials (e.g., wood), select an appropriately powerful cartridge. Excessive power may break the piston rod.
5. When firing, press the tool vertically firmly against the work surface. If the trigger is pulled twice and the cartridge does not fire, hold the tool in position for several seconds before carefully removing the cartridge.
6. The tool must NOT contain any cartridge before replacing parts or disassembling it.
7. Absolutely prohibit shooting in flammable or explosive environments. Never operate on brittle or extremely hard materials like marble, granite, or cast iron. Strictly prohibit work on structures or steel plates that could be penetrated.
8. Absolutely prohibit pressing the barrel with the palm of your hand or pointing the muzzle at anyone.
9. Absolutely prohibit overloading the tool. During operation, pay attention to sound and temperature rise. Stop use immediately if any abnormality is detected and perform an inspection. After prolonged use, replace wearing parts (e.g., piston rings) promptly; otherwise, performance will degrade (e.g., reduced power).
10. Always remove the cartridge before finishing use, or performing maintenance or servicing. After shooting, clean or wipe all parts of the tool promptly.
Post time: Sep-01-2025
