Chicago Pneumatic history

1904 was the year of expansion for CP. Offices were opened in England, Canada, and Germany; and new lines of products had been developed such as air tools and rock drills.

In 1912, CP began to produce an horizontal 2-cycle semi-Diesel oil engine to power CP compressors.

1917 catalog from Machinists Supply Co. of Chicago includes four pages of "Duntley" electric drills, drill stands, portable grinders, and tool post grinders.

In 1925, CP manufactured the Benz Diesel engine that was used in various racing cars in Europe at that time.

In 1939, CP designed and manufactured the world’s first impact wrench, both pneumatic and electric versions.

On Memorial Day, 1943, The Saturday Evening Post featured a cover illustration of Rosie the Riveter.

The portable broach puller for aircraft rivets was introduced in 1957.

CP introduced in 1969 the world’s first speed ratchet “CP728” at Ford Motor Company.

In 1970, the CP611 impact wrench was used in the steel erection phase of the World Trade Centers (New York City). Sold for several years into industrial markets, CP torque impact wrenches were introduced in the 1970s into the automotive market.

During 1988, more new products were launched than at any time since the late '70s, such as screwdrivers, assembly tools and new ratchet wrenches.

In 1990, CP won a silver award from the AMA with its "23 parts" advertising campaign.

In 1994, the production of compactors and portable power generators began.