The right tools for the job

Selecting power tools and accessories that can deliver efficiency and precision is essential for streamlining work on site. Here, Kevin Brannigan, Marketing Manager at Makita, looks at what to consider and the benefits for users.

Having the right tools and accessories for the task at hand can help improve productivity

There are a number of ways that the choice of tools can make the work of an electrical contractor easier. This includes selecting products with built in technologies that improve the effectiveness of tools, considering machines that offer a better way of completing common tasks – and choosing quality accessories that make work easier.

Cordless and brushless tools

Cordless tools are now the go-to option for many professionals. By eliminating the need for mains power in the area you are working, tasks can be completed quicker and easier. The absence of power cables also means that a potential trip hazard is removed, both for the user and anyone in the area. It also eliminates the dangers associated with the cable snagging or coming into contact with a blade or moving parts of a machine. For users, this means there is one less factor they need to manage when planning and carrying out their work.

In addition, they are often quieter and can produce lower levels of vibration – both of which help to protect the user from the negative effects of prolonged or frequent exposure to noise and vibration.

Another key feature that contractors should look for is brushless motor technology. In this type of motor, the tool is driven using contact-free electromagnetism rather than relying on contact between the carbon brushes and a rotary electrical switch on the rotor. While motors with brushes are effective, the friction generates heat and wastes energy. In contrast, brushless motors are more efficient because this issue is eliminated – in turn, extending run times by up to 50% per battery charge. This, combined with battery technology that offers fast recharge times, will mean minimal interruptions.

“Cordless tools are now the go-to option for many professionals. By eliminating the need for mains power in the area you are working, tasks can be completed quicker and easier”

Controlling vibration

When cutting chases in brick or concrete to install cabling or conduit, it is important to have the right tools, such as a good quality wall chaser and SDS+ rotary hammer drill, to complete the work as efficiently as possible. It is also important to be aware of tool vibration levels when undertaking this work and select tools that help to reduce this. This ensures the safety of the user and extends the safe working time for improved productivity.

Each tool has a vibration exposure value and, when multiplied by the usage time, gives the daily exposure (given in points). The Health and Safety Executive sets the Exposure Action Value (EAV) at 100 points, when steps must be taken to reduce or manage exposure, and the Exposure Limit Value (ELV) at 400 points when work must stop. There are also easy to use calculator tools available that will help in assessing the risk.

To extend the time before this point is reached it is valuable to look for tools that include features and technologies to minimise vibration levels. For example, many Makita rotary and demolition hammers feature Anti Vibration Technology (AVT), a number of measures such as counter-weights, damper springs and vibration absorbing housings, which, combined, significantly reduce the vibration transferred to the user’s hands.

Precision cutting

For cutting materials such as metal conduit pipe, cable trays and trunking to the correct size, it may be worth investing in a quality metal cut-off saw. These saws are available as portable circular saws, or as bench-mounted stationary saws. Designed specifically for cutting metal, they are much quicker when compared with manual methods and provide greater accuracy compared with a handheld power tool. With the stationary saws, precise cuts can be made – including exact angled cuts of various degrees. The workpiece is also held securely in place for improved safety and accuracy. Further, machines designed for cold cutting, such as the Makita LC1230N, do not heat the metal when cutting or create sparks, removing the hazard of hot works. Furthermore, all the metal chips are safely contained in a swarf collection box.

High quality accessories

Another key consideration is the choice of saw blades and drill bits. Most blades and bits will be designed for use with a specific material, so it is important to select the most appropriate one for each type of work. This can mean that contractors need to frequently switch between accessories, depending on the task. This can be time consuming and lead some to simply use the same bit or blade for everything. Not only does this result in a shortened lifespan for the blade or bit and the tool itself, but it can also damage the material, potentially requiring repairs to be made.

A solution to this is investing in multipurpose products that are designed to be used on a wide range of materials. Tungsten Carbide Tipped (TCT) blades and drill bits are engineered to be very hard-wearing and, as a result, can be used on a wide variety of materials. This includes aluminium, MDF, PVC and laminated chipboard for saw blades, and concrete, tile, brick, slate, limestone, wood, composite materials, plastics, aluminium and other metals for the multipurpose drill bits.

Having the right tools and accessories for the task at hand can help improve productivity and accuracy, as well as ensure the safety of users. By looking at the specific features of the machines, contractors can select the products that are most suitable for their work.

Makita, makitauk.com

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