Definition

Noun: 1. A heavy mechanical hammer driven by a motor: A "power hammer" is a large, powered forging tool used in metalworking. It uses an electric motor, steam, or compressed air to deliver powerful, repetitive blows to shape hot metal, typically on an anvil. It is distinct from a hand-held hammer. 2. A power tool for drilling rocks (specific industrial context): In some industrial or mining contexts, "power hammer" can refer to a powered percussive tool, like a jackhammer or rock drill, used for breaking or drilling into hard materials like rock or concrete.

Usage Examples

• Noun (Metalworking):
  • The blacksmith used a power hammer to flatten the red-hot steel bar.
  • Modern forges often replace the traditional sledgehammer with a power hammer for efficiency.
• Noun (Drilling/Breaking):
  • The construction crew brought in a power hammer to break up the old concrete foundation.
  • A pneumatic power hammer is essential for tunneling through hard rock.

Advanced Usage

• "Drop hammer" vs. "Power hammer": In precise technical language, a "drop hammer" uses gravity (a falling weight), while a "power hammer" uses a direct power source (like steam or a motor) to accelerate the hammer. However, the terms are sometimes used interchangeably in general workshops.
• "Forging hammer": This is a more specific synonym for the metalworking type of power hammer.

Variants and Related Words

• Hammer (n/v): The general tool or action of striking.
• Jackhammer (n): A specific, portable type of power hammer used to break pavement and rock.
• Steam hammer (n): A type of power hammer historically driven by steam.
• Trip hammer (n): A historic, mechanically-powered forging hammer, often considered a precursor to the modern power hammer.

Synonyms

• For forging: Forging hammer, mechanical hammer.
• For drilling/breaking: Jackhammer, pneumatic hammer, rock drill, demolition hammer.

Related Phrases

• Power tool: The general category to which a power hammer belongs.
• Drop forge: A forging process that often utilizes power hammers or drop hammers.

Noun

1. a power tool for drilling rocks