Impact hammers are tools used to deliver a strong, sudden force to a surface or object. They are commonly employed in construction and engineering to drive piles, break concrete, or test materials. The design typically includes a heavy weight that is dropped or swung to create a powerful impact. These hammers can be manual or powered, with variations like pneumatic or hydraulic models. Impact hammers are essential for tasks requiring high energy in a short time, making them valuable in both fieldwork and laboratory settings for assessing material strength and durability.