Skip to main content
Angled view of ASTA 18mm impact socket showing square drive recess, detent hole and stamped markingsTop view of 12-point 18mm impact socket with ASTA logo and CR-MO markingSide-angled image of 18mm impact socket showing 12-point opening, markings and detent hole

Impact Socket 12-Point 18mm 1/2-Inch Drive, Chromium-Molybdenum

Heavy-duty 18mm impact socket with 12-point geometry, 1/2-inch square drive, designed for pneumatic impact wrenches.

Request Quote

Description

Impact Socket 12-Point 18mm 1/2-Inch Drive

Brief Overview

This 18mm impact socket is purpose-built for high-torque pneumatic impact wrench applications. The 12-point internal geometry distributes force evenly across fastener flats, reducing cam-out and fastener rounding—critical for maintaining fastener integrity on automotive and industrial assembly work. Constructed from chromium-molybdenum steel with reinforced wall thickness, it withstands repeated shock loads that would damage standard sockets. The 1/2-inch square drive couples directly to professional-grade pneumatic impact tools. Part of a broader ecosystem: complement this with smaller-capacity impact sockets for precision work, or pair it with larger 30mm impact sockets for demanding heavy-duty fastening.

Key Features

  • 12-Point Drive Geometry: Reduces rounding and cam-out on hex fasteners; distributes load more evenly than 6-point sockets.
  • Chromium-Molybdenum Construction: Enhanced hardness and shock absorption; built to absorb repeated impact blows from pneumatic tools.
  • Reinforced Wall Thickness: 9mm wall thickness (D1 = 28mm, D2 = 28mm) provides durability under sustained high-torque cycles.
  • 1/2-Inch Square Drive: Industry-standard drive size; compatible with all 1/2-inch pneumatic impact wrenches.
  • Retaining Pin Hole: Integrated detent hole secures socket to the drive spindle, preventing accidental ejection during operation.
  • Matte Impact-Tool Finish: Protective dark coating resists corrosion and provides a professional appearance.
  • 78mm Length: Optimal working length for accessibility on typical automotive and industrial fasteners.

Business Advantages for Resellers

  • High-Margin Consumable Category: Impact sockets experience regular wear and replacement; repeat purchase cycles drive steady turnover.
  • Essential Accessory Upsell: Any shop purchasing an impact wrench needs a full socket set. Stock multiple sizes to capture complete transactions.
  • Professional Tool Reputation: Chromium-molybdenum construction signals quality to end users; justifies premium pricing versus cheaper alternative materials.
  • OEM/Fleet Market Opportunity: Automotive shops and fleet maintenance operations replace sockets regularly; establish yourself as a reliable bulk supplier.
  • Cross-Sell Potential: This 18mm size fits common automotive fasteners (wheel hubs, transmission bolts, suspension). Bundle with complementary sizes to increase average order value.

Technical Specifications

Specification Value
Socket Size 18mm
Drive Type 1/2-inch square drive
Point Count 12-point
Material Chromium-Molybdenum Steel
Overall Length 78mm
Outer Diameter (D1) 28mm
Drive Recess Diameter (D2) 28mm
Wall Thickness (T) 9mm
Product Code 544618P
Finish Matte impact-tool black
Retaining Pin Yes (integrated detent hole)

Application Context

This 18mm socket is ideally suited for:

  • Automotive Assembly: Wheel bearing fasteners, transmission pan bolts, suspension components.
  • Engine Work: Water pump bolts, alternator fasteners, engine block connections.
  • Industrial Maintenance: Machinery assembly, structural fastening, repetitive high-torque operations.
  • Fleet Maintenance: Heavy-volume replacement socket for shops servicing commercial vehicles.

Why 12-Point Geometry Matters

The 12-point design contacts fastener flats at two points per flat (compared to one point per flat on 6-point sockets). This dual-contact geometry:

  • Reduces rotational stress concentration on fastener corners.
  • Minimizes the risk of rounding fastener heads during high-speed impact cycles.
  • Provides faster engagement and disengagement on repetitive fastening tasks.
  • Allows for slight angulation without complete socket slip.

For precision fastening or recovery of already-damaged fasteners, the 12-point geometry is superior to 6-point alternatives.

Stock Recommendation

18mm is a high-frequency fastener size across automotive and industrial applications. Recommend maintaining robust inventory for immediate availability. Pair with complementary 12mm sockets and 21mm impact sockets to offer customers a complete mid-range set, maximizing per-order revenue.


Ready to maximize shop floor efficiency and customer retention? Stock this professional-grade impact socket as a cornerstone of your tool inventory. Bulk orders welcome.