FATMAG Feb April 2018 by Engage Media

FATMAG l

FASTENERS, ADHESIVES AND TOOLS I February - April 2018

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SUN POWER The talent , tools and technology you need to win the World Solar Challenge Page 24

Members in action

How members managed the expansion of their business. Page 17

Level-headed The best products and best advice about floor levelling compounds. Page 29 FEBRUARY MARCH APRIL

Head to your local CSS Member Store to get your copy or visit www.constructionsupply.com.au

2 CSS F.A.T. MAG

Construction Supply Specialists Pty Ltd Administration - Head Office 17 Lakeside Drive, Broadmeadows VIC 3047 Tel: (03) 9357 4228 Fax: (03) 9357 4229 jeff@cssgroup.com.au www.constructionsupply.com.au

CONTENTS February-April 2018

About us The store listed on the front of this magazine is a member of the Construction Supply Specialist Group. While the majority of your work will be conducted with your local CSS Member, this store is part of a national network of stores that can provide you with exceptional service and support wherever you may be working in Australia. For more store locations, visit www.constructionsupply.com.au.

COVER STORY

The power of the sun

The Solar World Challenge from Darwin to Adelaide is a test bed for the cars of the future.

4. Welcome Tom Drane’s journey. 8. High rise FOURSQ’s Michael Rapinett is set to become the next mall maestro of Melbourne

13. Safety first The workplace safety rules people still get wrong.

17. Building big Two CSS member stores talk about how they manage expansion.

21. Nitto Kohki: Engineering quality Combining Japan’s commitment to quality with

home-grown manufacturing ingenuity.

29. Level headed Modern floor-levelling compounds offer better results than ever before.

44. FATMAG fun Puzzles and crosswords.

COVER PHOTO: GETTY IMAGES

PLUS Supplier editorials From CSS, Beaver Brands, Bosch, Karcher, Macsim, Milwaukee, Paramount Safety, Simpson Strong-Tie and Stanley Black & Decker.

Check out past issues of the CSS F.A.T.MAG at www.cssfatmag.com.au. CSS F.A.T. MAG 3

WELCOME Welcome to the F.A.T. Mag. If you are a returning reader, great to have you back. If you are a first timer, I hope you enjoy what our great people in the marketing department have put together for your information and enjoyment. Bam! What a 5 months we’ve had since the last issue of the Fattie hit the streets back in October of 2017. We had our National Conference in November. The Melbourne Cup was run and won. We experienced strong growth around the group month-on-month. We added a new Member (Pilbara Tools and Fasteners – Port Hedland), Christmas (and a wellearned break for most of us) has come and gone and now we are all back with our noses to the grind stone. Talk about the flicker of an eye. As part of the opening statement and welcome address to our magazine, let me first say that we trust you all had a very safe, successful and joyous Christmas and New Year period with family and friends and that 2018 has kicked off in a sensational manner for you. CSS is looking at 2018—our 16th year in operation—as another year of growth, innovation and development for

the members and those suppliers that want to come on the journey with us. It is our intention to strengthen the ties between our members and suppliers with the end result being an even better offering to our collective customers at the coal face. Product quality, industry best practice after-sales service and support, correct, accurate and decisive advice and competitive pricing will be the platforms we will be working from throughout the year. We will deliver the best to our members and they will deliver the best on to you. Part of planning for the 2018 year has resulted in us taking a long hard look at where we do not have CSS member stores and what we can do to fill the holes in our national distribution chain of members. One of the glaring ‘holes’ for us was the nation’s capital and after some long negotiations and strategic meetings, we decided to open our own CSS operation there and it kicked off on February 1, 2018 and we have just completed the final touches to a wonderful new enterprise for the group and our partners. Impact-A Construction Supply Specialists is our very first company

owned store and it is situated in Fyshwick in the Australian Capital Territory and we are all extremely proud of what we have put together up there. Unfortunately, timing did not allow us to provide any photographs of the new store but we will make up for this in the next issue. These are exciting times for the Group, its Members and listed Supplier Partners and once again we are proving that we are willing and able to modify, alter and adapt to the wants and needs of our ever-changing market. Our move into Canberra is another indicator that CSS is forward thinking, creative and bold in its endeavours and has faith in the future of our industry and the players in it. On behalf of all of our members I would like to thank you for your past, present and ongoing support and for taking the time to have a look through our F.A.T. Mag. We hope it provides worthwhile information and a little entertainment. If you like it tell others please but if you don’t, then please tell me. My email is jeff@cssgroup.com.au We value your support. Jeff Wellard

Tom Drane’s journey At CSS, we’ve been following (and sponsoring) 11-year-old Tom Drane on his quest to dominate the world of dirt bike racing. Last year Tom set out to win six Australian Championships. This update from Tom’s parents, Matt and Lisa Drane of MD Steel Fabrication in Forbes, NSW (a CSS member store): “Last year the Australian Long Track championships were held at Mildura, Victoria. A Long Track Championship means the track is comprised of left hand turns only. Depending on what bike Tom rode, he could be going at speeds of up to 120 kmh. At this Championship Tom rode in three different classes on three different bikes; a Kawasaki 65cc, Honda CRF150 and a Honda CRF 80. This in itself is a huge effort as Tom has to be physically fit to be able to ride all three bikes throughout the championship. Over the two days he competed in more than 12 races, and he won all three classes. 4 CSS F.A.T. MAG

His eyes were then set on winning another three later in the year at the Australian Junior Dirt Track Championships held in Taree NSW. This championship was a Dirt Track Championship, meaning the track consisted of left hand turns and one right hand turn. It also had a hard oil surface which meant the set up for the bikes was totally different to the set up for Mildura. It is very rare for a rider to be able to adapt to different surfaces and maintain these results. Again, Tom rode in three different classes on three different bikes. However, at this meeting he traded in the Kawasaki 65cc for a KTM 65cc. It was a risky move to change bikes in the middle of the race season as Tom had to adjust to riding a totally different bike with very little practice. This risk paid off, though. He won this class with quite a substantial lead. In his remaining two classes he won his heats over the two days but when it

came to the final he finished in second place for both classes. This defeat has made Tom even more determined to reach his goals moving forward and has set his sights on riding four different bikes in four classes this year. He is working towards winning eight Australian Championships and eight State Championships this year. The motivation and determination are there—it is just a matter of doing his best and seeing what the future brings. He is entering back into the Go Kart scene in 2018 in preparation for the massive race season in 2019 where he will compete in the Australian Go Kart Championship.”

Approvals & Reports The following ETA assessment reports can be used to design anchors in accordance with SA TS 101:2015 which is referenced in the National Construction Code (NCC) 2016: ETA-08/0121 ETAG 001-1 Option 1 Cracked & uncracked concrete Fire Report F120 FIRE RATED

NEW

Blue-Tip Screw-Bolt™ - ETA1 Blue-Tip Screw-Bolt™ ETA1 is a high-tensile one-piece heavy duty concrete thread forming anchor with ETA Option 1 approval. They are simple to install and provide a strong, secure hold for high load applications and small edge distances, making it the preferred choice for a fast, reliable installation into a variety of substrates. The anchors are designed with a dust relief thread that allows for low installation torque; are fully removable, and are designed to resist structural and non-structural loading in cracked and uncracked concrete.

Patented dual lead thread and chamfered tip for fast installation and Immediate high strength loading

Grips over the total anchor length

Direct installation, reduces working time

Ratchet teeth design provides a strong hold against base

Approved for small edge distances FIRE RESISTANT

Dust relief thread allows for low installation torque

PRESSURE MASTER

Providing a solution for all your metal and tiled roof flashing requirements

Aztec Supplying a high pressure PVC solution

Physical Properties Product Inst When you need good bonding

Get the right tools or the job

SOF-FORM PipeTM is made using a closed cell, physical crosslinked, polyoleﬁn foam with an outer skin. The foam is free of heavy metals, plasticisers and CFCs and is also available in ﬂat form in thicknesses of 3mm CO N N EC TO R to 50mm in laminated layers. Connect with Aztec flexible rubber pipe connectors

Aussie

For tubular form products we can produce material to form a wide variety of tube ids and wall thicknesses.

Test Method

Units

Typical

Density

Internal

kg/m³

20 (nominal)

Tensile Strength

JIS K6767 kg/cm²

1.9

Property Value

MD • Easy-FormTM – Self Wound Adhesive

• Debonding foam manufactured from

CDTM – • Sof-Form

Plain Expansion Joint

• Sof-Form –

Adhesive Expansion Joint

Elongation

8 Standard roll widths to suit various applications Sof-FormTM - Plain Expansion Joint - Adhesive Expansion Joint

kg/cm² physically 1.3 crosslinked polyethylene foam JIS K6767 Easy-Form

Tear Strength

% %

JIS K6767

Compression Strength

• Easy to fit application • Anti-vibration properties

108

• Low moisture absorption Available in a variety of pipe ID’s to suit pipe of up to 160mm in diameter.

kg/cm

Internal

F p o

• Long life polyethylene foam ensures maximum protection of concrete and steel

0.9

Ask your CSS store for more information on Expansion CD kg/cm 1.1 Joint and Sof-Form Pipe 6 CSS F.A.T. MAG

U S

• Excellent compression and recovery properties

- Self Wound - Paperless Adhesive

is in m is p

A a 5

NEWS Government launches safety blitz NSW Minister for Better Regulation Matt Kean has launched a year-long blitz to crack down on dodgy construction businesses which put their workers at risk. Mr Kean said the number of falls from heights reported to SafeWork NSW had more than tripled in the last five years, with the majority happening on construction sites. “Falls are the number one killer on NSW construction sites,” he said. “In fact, this year alone, eight people have tragically died in work-related falls, and many more have been severely injured.” Mr Kean said former construction worker Myles Lowry, 47, knows all too

well the terrible consequences of failures in workplace safety. Mr Lowry was severely injured when he fell four metres onto concrete at a construction site on the State’s mid north coast in 2014. “Myles faced a long road to recovery and is now an enthusiastic advocate for safe work practices,” Mr Kean said. Mr Kean said falls-related incidents had been shown to increase toward the end of the year as businesses rushed to get jobs done. “That’s why we launched a 12-month state-wide blitz targeting construction sites to ensure businesses are taking the right precautions to keep workers safe,”

he said. Mr Kean said SafeWork inspectors will also take advantage of tough new laws that came into force on November 1. “These new laws mean SafeWork can now issue on-the-spot fines of up to $3600 to any shonky businesses who are failing to protect their workers,” he said. 

State Building Ministers tackle aluminium cladding The third Building Ministers’ Forum (BMF) for 2017 was held in Brisbane at the end of last year, and continued to drive decisive action on potentially hazardous aluminium cladding and other efforts to improve the compliance and safety of Australian buildings. BMF Ministers recognised the public safety concern and clear risk arising around the use of cladding that does not comply with the National Construction Code (NCC). All Ministers agreed that

they will use their available laws and powers to prevent the use of aluminium composite cladding with a polyethylene (PE) core for class 2, 3, or 9 buildings of two or more storeys, and class 5, 6, 7 or 8 of three or more storeys, until such time as they are satisfied that manufacturers, importers, and installers, working in collaboration with building practitioners, will reliably comply with: l the newly established standard setting test against which fire retardant cladding products are deemed to be reasonable for use in high rise settings; and l an established and implemented system of permanent labelling on cladding products to prevent substitution. For its part, the Commonwealth will regularly provide the states and territories with import data on aluminium composite cladding and other building products. This will help reduce the information barriers and support states and territories to track movements of cladding and ensure these products are used in ways that comply with the NCC. The BMF has tasked the Senior Officers’ Group, in consultation with industry and regulators, to provide further advice in respect of other materials. In addition, the BMF agreed to address inappropriate advertising and labelling of PE aluminium composite cladding utilising available laws and powers, and to ask the Consumer Affairs Forum to create a national information standard for these products.  CSS F.A.T. MAG 7

FOURSQ Construction Management’s Michael Rapinett at Essendon Fields, the project he’s most proud of.

8 CSS F.A.T. MAG

PROFILE FOURSQ Construction Management’s Michael Rapinett is set to become the next mall maestro of Melbourne after taking out the Master Builders Association’s Young Builder of the Year award. By Merran White

Building a bright future PHOTOGRAPHY: EAMON GALLAGHER

ichael Rapinett began building before he started school. Inspired by a handy forebear, he completed his first solo project— bookshelves—at age five. “My interest in construction has always been strong,” he recalls. “As a kid, I aspired to being a carpenter. It began through my grandfather, who I always followed around and helped when it came to building.” Those early years spent building stuff provided solid foundations for a career in construction. “As time went on, I developed further aspirations in business and project management [and] a passion for commercial-scale construction,” Rapinett explains. “RMIT offered a project-management course, which not only comprised construction practice and knowledge but also estimating, team management, quality control, business operations— the management-administration component. It was ideal for me.” The course included a study tour to Dubai, “visiting multi-million-dollar highrise developments and learning about

key processes within construction administration”, fuelling Rapinett’s passion to helm large commercial projects.

Patience pays off

At RMIT, he combined coursework with valuable industry experience—first in Porter Davis Homes’ estimating department, then with Hacer Group as an administrator. “The big lesson I learnt early in my career was patience— not to be in a rush to learn everything at once but to develop experience and strengthen each skill,” he says. Patience paid off: at 23 years of age, two years’ post-graduation, a former colleague at Hager, Brendan Canavan, who happened to be a business owner of up-and-coming Melbourne construction firm FOURSQ, made Rapinett a job offer he couldn’t refuse. “I wanted to be part of a company that was developing and feel part of the reason for its success, and continue to help it grow and get better,” he explains. “I always had belief in my ability to work hard and dedicate myself to my career; FOURSQ offered

responsibility and career development. That’s why I decided I wanted to work for them.”

King of the mall

Rapinett’s project manager job at FOURSQ encompassed multiple roles: coordinating and managing subcontractors, consultants and clients; construction budgeting and program management—and, as the company expanded, team leadership and mentoring responsibilities. They were skills at which Rapinett excelled; he used them to successfully manage a string of projects of increasing scope and complexity—18 in all, with two more in the pipeline. More by coincidence than by design, his slate included several shopping centre developments: Rapinett’s first project, Aldi Springvale was followed by DFO South Wharf; Altona Gate Shopping Centre redevelopment and Highpoint Mid Mall, for which he also wrote the successful tender. Keen to learn, he relished the challenge. “Shopping-centre developments are like no other project: they have many CSS F.A.T. MAG 9

PROFILE

The skills Rapinett showed on the Essendon Fields project helped him to win Young Builder of the Year award at the 2017 Master Builders Excellence in Construction Awards

program milestones; a number of key handover processes; several clients— developers, centre management, leasing—and all require management by the construction project team,” he says. “I love the intensity of these projects, and understanding each process within this type of development.”

The team effort

Rapinett’s proudest accomplishment to date, however, is a $15m commercial office development he completed in late 2016. “It was a complex, extremely challenging project [with] many clientdriven design changes which impacted severely on the time frame”, he recalls. “The thing I’m most proud of...was the way the team responded, our team development. We operated as a diligent and focused team to ensure we met client requirements and achieved a successful outcome.” The exceptional management and leadership skills Rapinett showed on the Essendon Fields project proved a winning combination, helping to net him the coveted Young Builder of the Year award at the 2017 Master Builders Excellence in Construction Awards.

10 CSS F.A.T. MAG

“I love the intensity of these projects, and understanding each process within this type of development.” Michael Rapinett, FOURSQ “The key processes we, as a team, implemented [on Essendon Fields] and my ability to manage and be diligent definitely helped me win, especially given my age and experience at the time,” he says. “But the award wouldn’t have happened without the many people I learned from, the teams I’m part of and the accomplishments we all achieved.

Looking forward

“I recognise how important the award is—not only to myself but to those in my company, and those with similar career aspirations. Teaching younger company members and setting examples of what can be achieved is key to my role, and this award has highlighted to those around me what’s possible.”

Winning also cemented Rapinett’s long-term goal to become a director/ construction manager overseeing large commercial projects. In the short term, he’s keen to diversify, handling constructions ranging in size and type and working towards ‘the perfect build’—one in which “client expectations have been met by way of quality, program, budget and safety”. For this rising star of the construction world, the journey is as critical as the destination. “People would say an ideal project’s one with no issues at all, but that’s very, very rare,” he admits. “My ideal construction projects are those that are different and challenging—projects with new technology, amazing designs, challenging engineering. It’s another way to learn and develop.” Right now, the 29-year-old is wedded to the job but “eventually”, when the time’s right, he envisions building his own dream home. “It would be extremely modern and close to parklands and shops; I like to keep active,” he says. Several happy stakeholders can attest to that. 

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Promoter is Construction Supply Specialists Pty Ltd ABN 67100073087. February promotion, Starts 01 Feb 2018 8:00 AM AEDT and ends 28 Feb 2018 11:59 PM AEDT. Prize is A CSS F.A.T. Prize Pack - Milwaukee M12 Kit valued at $990 INC GST (AUD). Prize draw at 12:00 PM AEDT on 09 Mar 2018. Winner notified and by 13 Mar 2018. March promotion, Starts 01 Mar 2018 8:00 AM AEDT and ends 31 Mar 2018 11:59 PM AEDT. Prize is A CSS F.A.T. Prize Pack - Milwaukee Packout System valued at $999 INC GST (AUD). Prize draw at 12:00 PM AEDT on 09 Apr 2018. Winner notified by 13 Apr 2018. April promotion, Starts 03 Apr 2018 8:00 AM AEDT and ends 30 Apr 2018 11:59 PM AEDT. Prize is A CSS F.A.T. Prize Pack Milwaukee M18 Fuel Kit valued at $999 INC GST (AUD). Prize draw at 12:00 PM AEDT on 09 May. Winner notified and published at www.constructionsupply.com.au by 14 May 2018. All promotions are open to Australian Residents 16+ who fulfil the entry/eligibility requirements. All promotions are drawn at Manbrands; 17 Simmons St, South Yarra, VIC 3141. All promotions are authorised in Australia under NSW Permit Number LTPM/17/02159. For full terms & conditions go to www.constructionsupply.com.au

BUY A STARTER KIT EZ STRAPPING KIT

Kit includes: - 1 x 62.5m x 20mm coil - 1 box of heavy duty buckles (100) - 1 x ratchet tensioner - 1 x tool box - Instruction sheet - Manual tensioner This self contained strapping system weighs only 8kg and packs the power of steel strapping but with the portability of a lunch box. Safely strap up job site materials for transport with 1100kg of breaking strength.

OR PURCHASE INDIVIDUALLY EZ STRAPPING REPLACEMENT ROLLS

EZ STRAPPING BUCKLES

- Coil weighs 1/4 the weight of steel strap coils - Will not rust, stain or damage product - No sharp edges - Can be cut while under tension Length Code EZS20/62 20mm X 62.5m rolls EZS20/250 20mm X 250m rolls EZS20/500 20mm X 500m rolls

EZ STRAPPING DISPENSER Dispensing machine holds up to 500mtr coil. Spring loaded to hold strapping firm to stop recoil. Heavy duty frame with roller bearing rubber wheels. Storage container attached to hold buckles and tools. Code: 11061

12 CSS F.A.T. MAG

- 20mm Phosphate - coated buckles - Available in a box of 1000 or bags of 100 - Buckles are reusable - Rust resistant Length Code EZB/20C Box of 100 Buckles EZB/20M Box of 1000 Buckles

EZ STRAPPING DISPENSER

EZ STRAPPING MANUAL TENSIONER

- Tensioner to be used on 20mm strapping - Best suitable on flat surfaces

Best used to leverage off edges.

Code: 10035

Code: 10033

YOUR BUSINESS

With continuing high numbers of injury and fatality in the construction industry we talk to an expert about where people still go wrong. By Meg Crawford

Safety first

ationally, workers compensation and workplace health and safety (WHS) legislative schemes recognise construction as a high-risk industry. All WHS regulators pay close attention to activity in the sector, with the power to prosecute breaches of WHS laws. Experienced WHS barrister Rob O’Neill, who has sat on both sides of the fence defending companies and individuals against WHS prosecutions as well as acting for WHS regulators, notes some alarming trends.

YOU DON’T NEED SOMEONE TO BE INJURED TO BE PROSECUTED

O’Neill has observed a trend towards prosecutions for matters where injuries have not necessarily occurred. “Where

WorkSafe are coming in on site and finding egregious breaches, they’re not just issuing improvement notices these days, they’re also bringing prosecutions where there hasn’t been a death or injury,” he explains. “Obviously, a lot of people don’t necessarily appreciate that that can occur: you don’t need someone to be hurt to be taken to court.”

SMALL AND DOMESTIC COMPANIES ARE BEING PROSECUTED FOR FALLFROM-HEIGHT ISSUES

O’Neill notes a number of recent fallfrom-height cases where people on domestic building and smaller sites are taking risks, resulting in injuries. “Prosecutions do follow the incidents that occur, and I’ve recently seen a number of working from heights issues,

not so much super heights, but in the two to three metre range without appropriate fall protection,” he says. O’Neill cites a recent domestic building case where a young worker fell from a platform just over two metres high, leaving him wheelchair bound. In that case, there was fall protection on the outside of the platform, but none on the side abutting the house next to the guttering, and the worker falsely believed that the house would acts as fall protection. In that case, the employer of the injured worker was not responsible for setting up the site, but was nevertheless prosecuted and fined $175,000 for failing to take proper care.

PEOPLE ARE STILL FAILING TO WEAR PPE

Despite a growing awareness around the necessity to use personal protective equipment (PPE), people still ignore it, sometimes with tragic consequences. To illustrate the point, O’Neill refers to one of his recent cases where a new worker wasn’t wearing a helmet on a CSS F.A.T. MAG 13

YOUR BUSINESS demolition site. “He was standing quite a long way away from the work that was being done, but in a freak incident a bolt flew out from a where some machinery was being operated about 15 metres away and hit him in the head, causing a skull injury,” he says. “That was a freak incident, but one of the other workers on site wasn’t wearing a helmet either and he was working much closer to the work, so there was clearly an issue there with people not doing the basics in terms of PPE.”

of enforcement (or lack thereof). “People think their workers are doing the right thing when they’re not there and generally, the workers aren’t necessarily doing the wrong thing, but they feel like they’re under pressure to cut corners,” O’Neill observes. “The head contractor or proprietor absolutely would say to them, ‘put your safety first, it’s more important than the deadline’, but people on site often think they’re doing the right thing by working quickly and cutting corners.”

TOP TIPS FOR PROTECTING YOURSELF AND YOUR WORKERS

2. Know your documentation. Make sure it reflects what you actually do.

O’Neill shares some pithy observations about how companies and tradies can better protect themselves.

1. Provide real motivation for your workers to work safely. People follow the incentives that are in front of them.

In terms of actual risk, O’Neill believes the issue often boils down to a culture

In terms of legal risk, O’Neill says that it’s critical to know very well what is in your policies, JSAs and safe work method statements. “Often, we see particularly subbies who have adopted their safety systems from upstream or bigger companies where there’s an incident or WorkSafe come on site and say they’re not following a particular safe work method statement

“A lot of people don’t appreciate that you don’t need someone to be hurt to be taken to court by WorkSafe.” Rob O’Neill, WHS barrister or procedure,” O’Neill notes. “There are good reasons why they’re not doing it, but their documentation says, ‘this is what you should be doing’, and legally it’s used against them. So, don’t put procedures in your documentation that you’re not prepared to follow.”

3. Don’t let your toolbox meetings and inspections be box-ticking exercises

O’Neill warns against going through the motions when it comes to site-safety inspections and toolbox talks. “The best safety improvements come from the workers where they’re actually engaged in the process.” 

THE FLEXIBLE PLASTIC OUTER SHELL IS EXTREMELY STRONG AND EXTENDS LOWER FOR GREATER PROTECTION AND INCREASED STRENGTH.

THE NON-MARKING GRIPS STRIPS GRIP TO JUST ABOUT ANY SURFACE AND PREVENT SLIPPAGE.

SNAP LOCKING SPEED CLIPS ALLOW FOR QUICK AND EASY ON-OFF.

THE KNEE-PRO IS HINGED WITH A STRONG METAL RIVET FOR DURABILITY AND STRENGTH.

THE 16MM CLOSE CELL INNER FOAM PAD PROVIDES THE ULTIMATE IN COMFORT AND PROTECTION FOR THE KNEE.

14 CSS F.A.T. MAG

SOFT ELASTIC WOVEN STRAPS WITH REINFORCED SEWN ENDS ARE PLACED WELL ABOVE THE KNEE AND WILL NOT BIND BEHIND THE KNEE WHILE PROVIDING EASY ATTACHMENT.

THE KNEE - PRO ULTRA FLEX III KNEE PAD THE KNEE-PRO ULTRA FLEX III KNEE PAD HAS BEEN DESIGNED AND ENGINEERED WITH THE USER IN MIND. IT’S ‘SPECIAL JOINTS’ MOVE WITH YOU IN A WAY THAT PREVENTS CUTTING AT THE BACK OF THE KNEES OR CUTTING OFF CIRCULATION WHILE YOU ARE IN A CROUCHED POSITION. SIMPLY PUT, WE THINK IT’S THE MOST COMFORTABLE, MOST DURABLE AND TOUGHEST KNEEPAD AVAILABLE ON THE MARKET TODAY.

GT-6 CONCRETE NAiLiNG SYSTEMS

GAS FASTENING SYSTEMS ARE NOW UTILISED BY MANY CONSTRUCTION PROFESSIONALS FOR A WIDE RANGE OF APPLICATIONS AS THEY ARE FAST AND EASY TO USE. The ICCONS® GT-6 Gas Tool is the result of extensive R&D and global testing that now delivers the most versatile concrete gas tool fastening system in today's market. Design features covering functionality, ergonomics, durability and quality puts the versatile GT-6 in the Contractor’s hand at a highly competitive price. The GT-6 is used extensively in the building services sector whether it’s commercial, civil, industrial or domestic construction taking the place of more traditionally labour intensive applications such as drilled in anchoring or expensive PAT systems.

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Features and beneﬁts • 30 pin Short Track for better accessibility and perfect for overhead use. • Compact were access may be problematic • 6 foot GT Extension Pole available • Low decibel system often allows for use in occupied facilities or where noise is an issue like hospitals.

105 joules of real power

Adjustable pin depth dial

Easy to change magazine 40 pin long track or 30 pin short track options

Durable carry case

0 0 0 1

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SUPPORT

Rugged Durability

SUPPORT 4S 0.6m x 0.6m (2ft x 2ft)

Massive Capacity

SUPPORT 6S

0.6m x 1.2m (2ft x 4ft)

SUPPORT 9S 1.2m x 1.2m (4ft x 4ft)

Compact Portability

SUPPORT 15S

1.2m x 2.4m (4ft x 8ft)

Work Area

340kg (1,500lb)

680kg (3,000lb)

Load Rating CODE: 10029448

Load Rating CODE: 10029449

Load Rating CODE: 10029450

Load Rating CODE: 10029451

MEMBERS IN ACTION

Building big

Two CSS member stores talk about how they manage the expansion of their businesses. By Erin Harrison

ne of the most challenging aspects of owning and running a business is managing its expansion, while also balancing the flow-on effects that arise from growth and development—like employing more staff, requiring larger premises or switching to new operational systems. This month we spoke to two CSS member stores about the accomplishments of their ventures, as well as what issues they have faced along the way. Down in Tasmania, Daniel Freshney and business partner Brett McCall have

been rather busy for the past seven years, growing Rapid Supply into one of the state’s leading industrial and mining suppliers. From humble beginnings as a two-man operation in 2009, the business now employs 26 staff over three locations. Two states north of Rapid Supply, in the heartland of Queensland, is Banks Bolts in Roma—almost 500km west of Brisbane. And it is here that Darren and Sally Turnbull have been for 13 years, taking ownership of the business in 2008, and ensuring it has been a mainstay operation for its extremely rural customers.

What enabled growth For some, Tasmania’s ‘remote’ position off the mainland may have been seen as one of the most challenging aspects of running a business, however, this is exactly where Daniel and Brett saw an opportunity to turn it into a winning formula for Rapid Supply. “We realised there was small gap in the market that we could force our way through, due to the real issue relating to freight not getting to Tasmania in a timely fashion. “No one was standing up and putting the pressure on themselves to say they would make it happen and because we had pretty good product knowledge in the industrial market, we decided to offer more of a service, rather than just a price point. “We worked it out with the local logistic companies to get want we CSS F.A.T. MAG 17

MEMBERS IN ACTION wanted, and what we wanted was to get it in and dispatch quicker than anyone else, along with supplying a high-end product.” It was during the second year that people started responding to what Rapid Supply were offering, and when they started to really grow. The small warehouse was earning a reputation for providing efficient service and having great staff to support the brand. “We did what we said we would do, and that was probably when everyone started talking about us and had confidence in the way we worked,” says Daniel. “However, it is very easy to lose concentration on what we built this business around. It is a never-ending battle to maintain this and instill it into staff that come from larger companies or outside our industry.” Similarly, it was also Roma’s isolated location that provided Banks Bolts with a unique situation for growth and expansion. But it wasn’t until 2011 that the Turnbulls decided to join the CSS group, after being approached to

come on board, and working through some initial trepidation. “We thought we were travelling fairly well and weren’t sure if CSS was the right fit for us. But once we met with them and found out we could still keep our independence, while benefiting from a buying group, we decided to take a gamble and are very glad we did.” Not long after that, Roma experienced a boom thanks to a gas pipeline being built out to Gladstone on the coast, and Sally was relieved to have plenty of support from the CSS team who could offer advice and assistance when it came to something that they hadn’t dealt with before. “It was invaluable to be able to say to customers ‘we can find out what you need and get it for you’ and it would either be overnight or only two days away.” This meant Banks Bolts was able to capitalise on every aspect of the construction in town, without having to turn customers away just because it was an area that hadn’t dealt with previously.

Challenges on the road to success Keeping up with demand, without over-capitalising on spend, or risking compromise on service and products supplied can be a big challenge when it comes to experiencing growth. They are issues both Daniel and Sally have faced during their time in business, but neither has shied away from the learnings of those ‘bumps in the road’. “It hasn’t all been roses,” says Daniel. “Yes, we have lost customers along the way, which we are not proud of, but we are just being realistic and truthful. However, we have grown through that and on the other side we have some great suppliers and fantastic staff with good knowledge of logistics and the products we sell. “We have some really hard workers who enable us to make customers our number one priority.” For Banks Bolts, a construction downturn in 2015 and 2016 proved a difficult time to get through, and a lot of businesses closed in Roma. But the store managed to keep afloat by expanding their stock into the area of

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Future-proofing operations With Banks Bolts covering an area of around 300 square kilometres, Sally knows that having the right products in stock is important to her customers. So building a big shed was key to futureproofing the business, allowing the store to have a wide range of products always on the shelf. “If they are an hour away, they can call to check we have what they need, and then get in the car and come and get it.” Rapid Supply has also expanded their warehousing operations, along with focusing on putting specialised people into specialised areas, and ensuring they don’t cut corners to service the needs of their customers. “We are still learning as we go, but we want to continue our core focus to be about the end users and we are working hard to develop those relationships.” 

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Engineering quality

Brisbane-based Nitto Kohki Australia combines Japan’s commitment to quality with home-grown manufacturing ingenuity to produce industrial engineering products that are trusted Australia-wide.

hen quality counts, you can trust Nitto Kohki Australia. That’s a promise the Brisbane-based distributor of Nitto Kohki and Kuken professional machine and pneumatic tools takes very seriously. The company has been operating in Australia since 1992 when Nitto Kohki Japan bought a stake in a small Victorian business called Westair Pneumatics. Today, the company operates its Australian headquarters and manufacturing division out of its Brisbane facility, and has regional branches in Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth and Darwin. Nitto Kohki Australia distributes a massive range of more than 20,000

air, fluid and gas couplings, along with quality Japanese-made pneumatic tools and Italian-made Cembre railway products. The company also operates its own Brisbane-based manufacturing division where its range of high-precision HSS OZBROACH cutters are made.

Made in Australia

Nitto Kohki Australia’s home-grown manufacturing division is a particular point of pride for the company’s general manager, Brett Rokesky. “Many of our competitors import from overseas, so we are pretty proud of manufacturing our OZBROACH range here,” he says. “The high-tech manufacturing process uses fully automated robotics and our

small team of highly qualified staff members are able to look after the whole precision process making more than 3,000 pieces per month.” Rokesky says that controlling the manufacturing process at home means the company can achieve the best possible precision, and offer customised products for their Australian customers. “Some specific engineering projects need a very precise hole in some of the cutters, and we can get right down to 0.1 of a millimetre. We also do a lot of resizing as well. For example, we might have a customer that wants a 25 millimetre cutter taken down to a 24.5 millimetre cutter. We can resize it in-house for them. That gives us a lot of flexibility to make cutters that fit our CSS F.A.T. MAG 21

customers’ exact needs.” Of course, the manufacturing climate in Australia is less than ideal, and throughout more than 25 years of operation, Nitto Kohki Australia’s manufacturing division has seen the industry all but collapse around them. “The labour costs are high, and it’s getting harder and harder to keep manufacturing in Australia going,” says

Rokesky. “But I think we have the right sales team in place, and a lot of our customers will support Australian-made products because they know they are getting the quality they are paying for.”

The genuine article

Quality is also taken very seriously by Nitto Kohki’s head office in Japan, and the entire range of Japanese-made Nitto

Kohki products undergoes a stringent quality control process, which has built a reputation for durability and logevity. However, the company’s cut-price competitors have tried to take advantage of Nitto Kohki’s reputation for quality by producing inferior ‘Nitto-style’ copies that have flooded the Australian market. “A lot of the copies are coming out of China, and because they are

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Opposite page, far left: Nitto Kohki’s Australian headquarters. Right, and above: The company manufacturers high-quality engineering cutters as well as distributing the Japanese-made Nitto Kohki-brand engineering products.

advertised as Nitto-style, legally, there’s nothing we can do about it.” Rokesky warns that these cheap copies present a range of safety issues due to inferior fittings. “Safety is number-one in everyone’s books. You just can’t muck around with compressed air that’s travelling at 10 metres per second. If you don’t have the correct fitting, it can cause major

injuries.” Rokesky advises customers to keep an eye out for the official Nitto Kohki trademarks that are included on all the company’s genuine products. “We have three trademarks and every one of our fittings will have one of those trademarks on them,” he says. “We’ve invested a lot in training our distributors to be able to spot copy fittings, as well as educating end-users about the danger of using these inferior copies.”

A sunny future

While educating the market about cheap counterfeit fittings will remain an ongoing challenge for the company, the future nonetheless looks bright for Nitto Kohki Australia. The mining downturn in 2015/16 pushed the company to seek greener pastures in the automotive industry, and when the coal industry recovered in 2017, the company was firing on two cylinders. And despite reports that the future of coal mining is grim, Rokesky

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The Solar World Challenge isn’t just a race between Darwin and Adelaide. It’s a test bed for the cars of the future. By Kerry Faulkner

The Power of the Sun non-competitive adventure class and perhaps the most significant, the cruiser class; a division focusing on practical vehicles as forerunners to commercially produced solar cars.

THE DRIVING FORCE BEHIND THE CHALLENGE

World Solar Challenge event director Chris Selwood (AM) said the most important change since the race began was the extent to which efficiencies have gone up and costs down, vital factors contributing to the development of usable solar cars. He said in the event’s early years, entrants were regulated for eight square metres of solar collectors. They now need just four to do the same job. And where once regulations provided for a 140kg battery (Pb-Acid), the latest lithium polymer battery weighs just 18kg for the same nominal energy capacity. Further, the use of space age technology like Gallium Aresnide cells (generally used to power satellites and

space vehicles) have added to the increased efficiencies. “Other drivers of development are the cost and availability of electronic control systems that can deal with high current inductive loads, which were once a serious obstacle to electric car development, and these together with efficiencies of motors and drive trains which give our cruiser class solar cars the ability to travel 1000kms, are making a big difference,” he said.

THE LOCAL CONNECTION

Brisbane-based Clenergy TeamArrow competed in the World Solar Challenge for a third time this year, finishing best of all Australian entries. Its Arrow STF vehicle, a two-seater coupe, finished third in the cruiser class carrying 1.7 people (the average number of passengers across the length of the whole journey) with external energy of 91kWh. Netherlands team Eindhoven won the class for its efficiency and practicality, carrying an average of 3.4 people using only 46kWh of energy, ahead of second place getters Bochum (Germany) which carried an average of 2.6 people and used 88kWh. TeamArrow spokesman Cameron Tuesley said its entry was designed as a ‘real’ car not a striped down version of one. He said Dutch winners in both the challenger and cruiser classes reflected just how well resourced that country’s entries were. “The Dutch take this race very seriously, there were apparently two million people a night watching the race This page: Brisbane-based Clenergy TeamArrow. Opposite: The PrISUm team from Iowa State University.

24 CSS F.A.T. MAG

PHOTOS: COURTESY OF BRIDGESTONE WORLD SOLAR CHALLENGE 2017

ver the thirty years since Australia’s first Bridgestone Solar World Challenge, improvements in technology have edged solar cars to the cusp of commercial production and they could be driving on the nation’s highways and byways as fully-fledged registered road users as soon as next year. The premise of the Challenge is simple but the rules strict; vehicles have to complete the 3000km journey from Darwin to Adelaide using energy from the sun or the car’s kinetic energy, with an allowance of just 5kW of stored energy backup for added acceleration up hills or to compensate for cloudy days. Between October 8 and 15, 30 teams of secondary and tertiary students from across the globe navigated thunderstorms, howling cross winds and overcame setbacks like inconveniently overcast days to complete the event. They were spread across three classes; the aerodynamic single seat challenger class, the

COVER STORY

CSS F.A.T. MAG 25

COVER STORY

Clockwise from top left: Cars lining up at the starting line in Darwin; the PrISUm team entry was a utility vehicle carrying an esky containing beer on ice; final preparations for the Apollo VIII team from National Kaohsiung University Of Applied Sciences (Kuas) & St. John’s University in Taiwan; competitors at Hidden Valley in Darwin, before the race. updates back home,” he said. “Our team which came third, was around a quarter of the size of the Dutch first place getter and the German in second place, and we operate on around one tenth of the budget of both teams. “That said, every team in the race that placed in both categories was running motors and motor controllers designed and built in Australia and use a commercial version of solar cell technology from the University of New South Wales. “Australian technologies underpin the performance of almost every leading team in the race.” Clenergy has begun taking orders for Australia’s first commercially produced road registered solar car, expected to be released by the end of 2018 with a top speed of 150km/h and able to travel 1000kms before needing a recharge. Mr Tuesley said its sale version would be 26 CSS F.A.T. MAG

“Australian technologies underpin the performance of almost every leading team in the race.” ‘smart, beautiful, fast and practical’ and customisation will give it all the features expected of a luxury sports car, like airconditioning and infotainment. About 36 people have registered their interest.

HOLDING IT ALL TOGETHER

In a race first, Iowa State University’s (US) team PrISUm drove a ‘utility’ vehicle with a boot which earned a special mention at judging because it was filled by an esky containing beer on ice, as part of its bid to capture the attention of the Australian market.

PrISUm team leader Dillion Waugh said manufacturing giant 3M had been a huge part of the team; in fact, he said, pretty much every compound in the car has been touched with 3M products which included adhesives, abrasives, personal protection equipment. 3M corporate marketing manager Australia and New Zealand David Duguid said as a global sciencebased company 3M was committed to bringing science to life for young people and the World Solar Challenge was the perfect opportunity to do that. “There’s a whole list of our products that’ve helped put the car together; one of the things about the World Solar Challenge is to be lightweight because you don’t want energy to be used up carrying weight, so a lot of our tapes and adhesives remove the need for mechanical parts like bolts and rivets,” he said. 

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Cementitious Floor Levelling Compounds

28 CSS F.A.T. MAG

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Use them correctly, and modern floorlevelling compounds offer better results than ever before. By Abby Callard.

Level headed E very successful floor finishing job starts with a flat subfloor—especially for tile and hardwood coverings. As builders very well know, many subfloors start out uneven. Fortunately, floor levelling compounds today are more advanced than they’ve ever been, which allows you to select a formula that meets each job’s specific requirements. Selecting the correct compound for your job, properly preparing the subfloor and avoiding common errors are all key to setting up your flooring project for success. Australian Standards exist for all types of structures (see box), so always check you’re selecting the right product for the job at hand.

SELECT THE RIGHT PRODUCT

Making sure you have the right formula for the job is step one to a successful floor levelling job, and using reputable brands like Sika and Bostik can save you a lot of time and money. Bostik’s range of compounds endures you can find a compound that will meet your specific needs, says Graham Lee, National Business Development Manager at Bostik. According to Sika, before any product is used, make sure concrete floors are fully cured, structurally sound, clean, dry, and free of surface contaminates and dust. Concrete must accept water penetration. You can test by lightly sprinkling water on various areas of substrate. If water

penetrates, then a good bond with a selected primer can be achieved. If water beads and fails to be absorbed by the concrete surface, contaminants are present, therefore loss of adhesions may occur. Mechanically removing the contaminates that are present is highly recommended. Once the substrate has been inspected the suitable products or systems can be chosen from the suppliers range. The choice of product is critical and your supplier should offer a product data sheet that will help you work out the right product to fit your purpose. Determining how thick your floor levelling compound needs to be applied, will determine which compounds meet your needs. Each CSS F.A.T. MAG 29

AUSTRALIAN STANDARDS – DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL Carpet & Vinyl applications

l AS 1885 – 2012

When a straight edge 2000mm long is placed at rest at two points 2000mm apart on the surface, no part of the surface shall be more than 4mm below the straight edge) 4mm over 2m + / -

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primer sets to avoid dust accumulation and surface contamination.

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Carefully following each compound’s specific instructions will go a long way to ensuring a successful job, but Lee says there are some common mistakes builders can watch out for— most of which occur while mixing the compound. The powder should always be added to the water, not the other way around, Lee says. An electric mixing drill should always be used for mixing because you can better control the speed. The powder should be added gradually to the water while mixing until the entire bag has been added. Mixing for another two to three minutes after will ensure a well-mixed, smooth compound. Getting the right consistency can also be a challenge. For the best results, he recommends using warm water in winter and cold water in summer. “In summer, warm water may cause the mixture to set too quickly and result in hills and bubbles,” says Lee. Another common mistake builders make is adding too much water. When too much water is added, the compound can potentially break up. If any hardened or stiffened compound has formed in the bucket, it should be discarded. Adding additional water will not reconstitute this into a useable compound. “Never try to put additional water in the mixture to try to loosen it up,” Lee says. “Instead, focus on quickly working and spreading the material to the subfloor surface.” Figuring out the best compound for your specific job and following the instructions for that compound will put your project on the best track for success. 

l Industrial concrete sometimes need to be levelled for one

reason or another. If a levelling compound is required, a high strength finished surface product capable of handling light vehicle traffic through to forklifts is recommended. A standard Domestic / Commercial grade self levelling compound (underlayment) is not designed for this type of application. Important note: Australian Standards are a minimum excepted tolerance and some manufacturers installation recommendations go over and above AS standards and must be followed for warranty purposes. (Information courtesy of Sika)

product has a specified thickness at which it can be applied. For example, the Bostik UL-50 compound can be applied at 2-15 millimeters, while the Bostik UL-100 compound can be applied from a feather weight thickness up to 25 millimeters. Just like the application thickness, each compound has a different setting time—both when people can walk over the floor (foot traffic) and when a covering can be applied (covering time). Always refer back to a particular product’s Specification Guide to select the right product, even if you’ve used a similar floor levelling compound in the past. “You can’t assume that if you’ve used floor levelling before, you can use a different brand with the same results,” Lee says. “Every brand has a different set of instructions based on their own mixture.” 30 CSS F.A.T. MAG

PREPARING THE SURFACE

Regardless of what product is chosen, the first step to any floor levelling job is making sure the subfloor is prepped and ready to go. “Preparation is as simple as making sure the floor is dry and clean,” says Lee. Most subfloors require priming. Floors and compounds require different primers, depending on whether the surface is porous or nonporous or contains a certain amount of moisture. For that reason, it’s important that moisture testing is carried out on the concrete subfloor. If a subfloor contains greater than 5.5 percent moisture content or is subject to greater than 70 percent relative humidity, a moisture seal should be applied as a vapour barrier before priming. Levelling compound should be applied as soon as possible after the

AVOIDING COMMON MISTAKES

CSS F.A.T. MAG 31

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New Impact-A range of gloves and eyewear

afety in the construction industry has never been more important. In New South Wales alone, according to Safe Work NSW, over the past four years around 30,000 workers were injured on construction sites because of unsafe work practices. Thirty-three were killed and more than 2000 have been left permanently disabled. As you head back to work after the Christmas break, it’s vital that your (PPE) Personal Protective Equipment meets or exceeds Australian standards. That’s why CSS has teamed up with Paramount Safety Group to produce a range of Impact-A safety Eyewear & Hand Protection. Paramount Safety has 25 years of experience in manufacturing safety products that meet local standards, so for CSS to partner with a reputable company with years of

experience was most important. Paramount Safety products are certified to meet Australian standards, says Darren Cook from Paramount Safety. “That means they are engineered and designed to meet applications for general or specific tasks” he adds. “So the Impact-A eyewear, they boast polarised lenses, are lightweight and are rated for medium impact, as per ASNZS1337.1.2010. “They’re stylish-looking, but more importantly, they’re fully certified.” For the Impact-A range of hand protection, there are three new gloves styles appropriate to different applications: precision work, generalheavy duty purpose, or Cut 5 rated. Cookie runs us through the 3 new styles promoting their key features: “HUNTER LITE is designed for

intricate and precision work with lightweight Polyurethane coating, for fit and feel whilst still offering protection against minor knocks and abrasions. “HUNTER GP and HI-VIS equipped with cool Lycra infused shell and foam fitting nitrile palm offering a more robust wear’n’tear feature that doesn’t compromise dexterity. “HUNTER C5 offers piece of mind with Cut 5 Resistant Liner and lightweight polyurethane palm so you’re getting the best of both worlds whilst meeting both EN388:2003 and EN3888:2016 standards.” Impact-A eyewear and hand protection are available from mid-February from your CSS member store. 

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Highly robust professional wet & dry vacuum cleaners with improved TACT automatic filter cleaner. 1

Accessory storage and flat tool box fixation.

Easy single-button operation switch with TACT filter cleaning adjustment. Power take-off socket on TE units available. Dustless extraction.

Suction hose connected in the machine head increases capacity and allows quick disposal.

Robust and durable container with front bumper for extended lifetime and easy handling. Large, sturdy steel castors provide stability on any surface and maximum mobility.

CSS F.A.T. MAG 33

ADVERTORIAL

What is heat stroke and heat stress?

eat stress is a general term for when the body starts to suffer from heat exhaustion and the body’s core temperature overheats above the optimal range of 36.1-to38.8 degrees. The far more dangerous heat stroke is a potentially deadly condition that is diagnosed by a high core body temperature greater than 41 degrees. It requires emergency medical treatment. Depending on the severity and duration of heat stroke, the consequences can be severe and may include permanent organ damage or even death. When workers sweat they don’t just lose water but also essential salts and minerals known as electrolytes. In order to stay hydrated and maintain optimal performance, it is vital that

workers replenish lost electrolytes along with water. As such, electrolyte drinks play an integral role in any successful workplace hydration program. THORZT is often recommended as an electrolyte replacement beverage on construction sites alongside water, as part of their comprehensive hydration program. THORZT contains electrolytes (potassium, calcium, sodium, chloride, & magnesium), branch chain amino acids (isoleucine, leucine & valine), and low GI carbohydrates for sustained release of energy throughout the day— without the sugar spike you get from other drinks. THORZT is caffeine and gluten free, and is also available in sugar free. THORZT’s 5 great tasting flavours encourage fluid consumption among

workers, keeping them hydrated and performing at their peak throughout the workday. While treatment is critical, prevention is better. For detailed insight into how to prevent and manage bodily heat build up, download THORZT’s Heat Stress White Paper at www.thorzt.com. 

Made For All Conditions Proprietary Electrolyte Formula inc. Magnesium Contains Branch Chain Amino Acids and L-Glutamine Up to Half the Sugar of Other Leading Brands Gluten and Caffeine Free Vitamins Hypotonic Solution Industrial Athlete Programme

34 CSS F.A.T. MAG

ADVERTORIAL

When you need to safely lift or move gear… trust Beaver

sing the right equipment to safely lift and move equipment can save time, money, and most importantly, lives. Knowing how to use this equipment, while having peace of mind that it meets all required Standards, and is easy for workers to identify and handle, is even more important. The Beaver name is synonymous with heavy duty, quality lifting and materials handling products you can rely on. Our extensive, Australian designed range includes: l Lifting Chain & Components l Materials Handling Equipment l Synthetic & Wire Rope Slings l General Purpose Chain l Load Restraint & Recovery Equipment.

Established in 1977 Beaver’s success is built on a commitment to provide products featuring the latest safety solutions including shackles and blocks that have been colour coded for safely matching components and loads to lift or move, as well as

YOU’RE IN SAFER HANDS WITH BEAVER CHAIN & LEVER BLOCKS

extremely lightweight, high capacity synthetic lifting slings for quicker & easier handling. All Beaver products are manufactured to AS/NZS ISO 9001 Quality Assurance guidelines and then batch tested for quality in our NATA accredited facilities in Australia. 

Forged alloy steel hooks Top & bottom hook feature ball bearings to swivel under load

QUALITY TESTED HERE IN AUSTRALIA, WITH THESE GREAT FEATURES & MORE!

Lightest 500kg Lever Block on the market at 2.5kg Compact design

Colour coded to match international standards QR code on ID tag Aluminum housing

Short arm lever

Curling design, allows hand chain feed directly into sprocket from many directions & angles

QR code on ID tage

Beaver’s repair and testing facilities are accredited to NATA specifications.

Bearing top & bottom hook

CSS F.A.T. MAG 35

TOOL AND EQUIPMENT TRACKER. Milwaukee Tools continues to revolutionise the tool industry with the introduction of the TICK™ - a professional-grade Bluetooth™ tool and equipment tracker. Designed to withstand the harshest jobsite environments, the TICK™ can be easily attached and hidden from sight on any product, regardless of brand, providing users an invaluable way to track their inventory through the ONE-KEY™ app. The TICK™ is the only Bluetooth™ tracker designed for the jobsite and with an Inventory Manage System Built around it. With its low profile design, the TICK™ can securely attach to anything through glue, screw, rivet, or zip-tie. Its flat back enables a snug fit to a variety of surface types and its circular shape fits into a range of places hidden from view; for instance, the underside of a ladder or mitre saw stand. Each TICK™ is also laser engraved with a serial number so users can easily identify and assign multiple TICK™s. Once attached and hidden from view, the TICK™ makes tracking tools and equipment as simple as pulling out your phone. Products with a TICK™ attached are paired via the ONE-KEY™ app. Tool records and locations are updated when any device with the ONE-KEY™ app comes within 30 metres of the TICK™. These location updates are transmitted through any ONE-KEY™ app that’s in-range, regardless of whether the app is open

or not, allowing users to pinpoint missing tools more quickly. In addition, users can easily manage all of their tools through the app’s Simplified Tool and Equipment Management features. These features allow users to assign and store detailed information for all of their tools and equipment – whether it’s a tool equipped with a TICK™, a ONE-KEY™ enabled tool or any other tools and equipment. Fully embodying the Milwaukee promise of “Nothing but HEAVY DUTY,” the TICK™ is ruggedly protected from the harshest environments – giving professionals peace of mind that they’ll receive updated locations of their tools and equipment, no matter what. Its water and dust-tight closure protects the internal components from weather elements, and UV rated plastics keep the TICK™ from getting brittle when exposed to extended periods of direct sunlight. In addition, its rugged electronics housing can stand up to high vibration and impact, as well as heavy duty tracking applications, like underneath a generator.

The TICK™ is a true testament to Milwaukee’s focus on the user and investment in game changing technology. Download Milwaukee’s ONE-KEY™ app to Unlock the Digital Jobsite. Visit milwaukeetools.com.au/one-key for more information.

DOWNLOAD THE ONE-KEY™ APP TODAY! 36 CSS F.A.T. MAG

TRACKED BY ONE-KEY

™

THE NON-ACID ALTERNATIVE CONCRETE DISSOLVER Crete-Off is a nontoxic, biodegradable, â&#x20AC;&#x153;environmentally greenâ&#x20AC;? liquid designed to dissolve the Portland cement component in concrete, mortar, thin set, grout, and other Portland cement based products. It contains no acid, Crete-Off will not harm painted surfaces, tools, metal surfaces, plastic surfaces, or any type of plants or vegetation. It is easily neutralized and diluted with water. It is fast-acting but not instantaneous, so correct application of the liquid to the material is the key to success. It is a labour-saving product designed to be operator safe and to eliminate hammering, scraping and acid- washing of tools, equipment, and building surfaces.

Available in 750ml & 5Ltr Spray Bottle & 20Ltr Container

Dissolves and cleans concrete off:

Hand Tools & Formwork

Ready-Mix Trucks

Windows & Frames

Machinery

CSS F.A.T. MAG 37

ADVERTORIAL

Bosch Blue introduces world first connected cordless angle grinder

The next level of power and control osch Blue has introduced the world’s first 18-volt Bluetooth Connected angle grinder—the GWS 18V-125 SC. It is one of the most powerful and intelligent small angle grinders available. German-engineered for a broad range of heavy duty grinding applications, the Cordless Angle Grinder provides tradies with best-in-class power and torque. Featuring a high-performance Brushless EC Motor, the angle grinder has 35 percent more power with up to 1000W AC equivalent performance. Weighing only 2.8 kilograms and boasting an anti-vibration auxiliary handle, the grinder is easy to use and handle through the toughest

applications. Packed with a number of new features for increased user protection, it has raised the bar in safety and performance: l KickBack Control l Restart Protection l Soft Start l LED work light Technologically advanced The GWS 18V-125 SC comes equipped with a low consumption Bluetooth chip which provides innovative tool control and connectivity via a smartphone app—a world first for professional angle grinders. Once the connected tool has been paired to the smartphone app, users will have access to the following features and benefits:

l Mobile Safety Notifications l Mobile Alerts and Warnings status updates and advice on how to solve issues when there is motor overheating, electronic failure or low battery levels l Tool Customisation: soft start settings, LED light power and more. l Enhanced tool information including Get your hands on the highperformance connected angle grinder today, to ensure a powerful, efficient and safe solution on the jobsite. 

A NEW DIMENSION

OF POWER! Best built battery on the planet

87%

MORE POWER

COMPARED TO CURRENT 18V 6.0AH

100%

COMPATIBILITY WITH ALL BOSCH 18V TOOLS

38 CSS F.A.T. MAG

24% LIGHTER 35% SMALLER

135%

LONGER LIFETIME

THANKS TO COOLPACK 2.0 TECHNOLOGY

ADVERTORIAL

High performance, and code compliant Technical Specification (SA TS 101:2015). Essentially, this Standard is a testing and design standard that is based on European Technical Assessments (ETA’s) for anchor design. The Macsim Seismic Rated Wedge Anchors comply with SA TS 101:2015 requirements. Our anchors are sourced from a reputable manufacturer, and have been approved in Option 1 of the following European Technical Assessment – ETA 12/0397, for use in both non-cracked and cracked concrete. For further information on the Macsim Seismic Rated Wedge Anchor, please contact your nearest CSS member store. 

OWN

NY • A PA

TRAL N IA

CO M

n an endeavour to stay current and innovative, as technology advances, building codes change, and safety becomes increasingly more important, Macsim Fastenings is constantly evolving its products. Proof of this evolution is the recently released Macsim Seismic Rated Wedge Anchors. These cold forged, galvanised wedge anchors are for use in safety critical, high performance structural applications. They are available in a range of diameters—10, 12 and 16mm—and a range of lengths—70 to 175mm. The current National Construction Code refers to a Standards Australia

CSS F.A.T. MAG 39

ADVERTORIAL

New Simpson Strong-Tie® CCN64 Collated Connector Nailer reduces risk of mis-installation of timber connectors.

Avoid mis-installation of timber connectors

ince 1956 Simpson StrongTie has been focussed on delivering solutions to help build safer stronger structures. With over 60 years manufacturing experience in timber connectors, Simpson Strong-Tie understands the importance of achieving desired design loads through the use of the correct connector that has been installed. Simpson Strong-Tie is the market leader in the United States for timber construction connectors and are one of the largest manufacturers in Europe. As such, Simpson Strong-Tie Australia has been able to leverage off the broad range of connectors available in these regions to offer unique ways of connecting timber to either save installation time, achieve higher loads or make it easier to install. Simpson Strong-Tie invests time and effort in application testing for their range of timber connectors to ensure the published load data is accurate. To meet the required design capacity, connectors need to be installed as per the manufacturer’s specification. We often see poorly installed connectors

40 CSS F.A.T. MAG

and incorrect placement of nails with pneumatic nail guns. There are many variables with installation of connectors via pneumatic nail guns. If the air pressure is too high, you run the risk of overdriving the nail and damaging the connector. If the nails are not located correctly, you may damage the connector and reduce the effectiveness of the connection. Lastly what nail size has been used has a direct effect on the actual load capacity. The size must match the specified nails used in the testing or the suitable reduction factor must be applied. Ultimately, the actual connector capacity can be affected if incorrectly installed. By not installing the connectors correctly you may risk having a project delayed by rectification works if not approved by the building inspector. More importantly, the integrity of the entire structure may be at risk. At Simpson Strong-Tie we believe in doing the job correctly the first time. As such, we are excited to launch the CCN64 Collated Connector Nailer which will allow the correct installation of connectors that will be considerably faster than the traditional hand nailing.

The CCN64 is a multi-blow tool that actually hammers the nail in and prevents the nail from being overdriven. The nails protrude from the tip of the tool and are easily located into the hole so that the connector will not be damaged. The compact design allows access into tight locations. Simpson Strong-Tie collated nails are the same nails as those used for hand driven applications. The size of the nail is easily identified by an 8 or 10 embossed on the head. The 3.32mm is embossed with an 8 and the 3.75mm nail is embossed with a 10 so the building inspector can know exactly what has been used. So to minimise the risks of misinstallation, use the CCN64 Collated Connector Nailer with the Simpson Strong-Tie® connectors on your upcoming projects.  The CCN64 and Simpson StrongTie collated nails are available from your local CSS store from the 1st February 2018. To find out more about the new Simpson Strong-Tie CCN64 Collated Connector Nailer speak to your local CSS store representative.

NEW!

Precise & Fast Connector Nailing

The Simpson Strong‑Tie® CCN64 Collated Connector Nailer minimises the risk of incorrect installation of connectors through accurate nail placement and is considerably faster than traditional hand nailing. The compact and lightweight design of the CCN64 allows access into tight locations, and is designed so that the nail tip protrudes from the tool so that the connector hole is easily located. The multi‑blow operation uses a series of blows to drive the nail and helps prevents overdriving. Suitable for 38 and 64 mm paper collated nails — available in galvanised and stainless steel. The CCN64 helps avoid mis‑installation of timber connectors whilst saving time onsite.

To find out more contact your nearest CSS Member Store ConstructionSupply.com.au

CSS F.A.T. MAG 41

ADVERTORIAL DeWALT ® expands 18V XR® range and cordless nailer portfolio with powerful Brushless Concrete Nailer

Brushless Concrete Nailer for professional direct fastening applications

imed at meeting the demanding requirements of the professional concrete and steel direct fastening market, DEWALT® has added the DCN890 18V Cordless Concrete Nailer to its high performance XR® range of cordless tools. Installers of first fix applications such as drywall track, as well as mechanical, electrical and plumbing professionals, will benefit from the power, durability and versatility of the DCN890. Unlike equivalent gas models, the DCN890 operates with consistent power even at low temperatures, with no reduction in performance or reliability, as well as quick acceleration to drive the first nail at the exact time the user needs it. Designed for the fixing of drywall track, thin deflector heads and similar applications, this exceptional cordless nailer delivers the capacity and speed to secure up to 2.5 metres of drywall track, with nails spaced 25cm apart, in 8.2 seconds. The cordless, compact and wellbalanced design of the DCN890 is complemented by a multitude of useful features including three variable power settings, offering adjustable power selectable by the user for nail length, and depth control in different substrates. Two actuation modes are available: RAPIDCYCLE™ mode for

42 CSS F.A.T. MAG

quick, repetitive operation and sequential actuation for applications involving greater distance between shots and higher accuracy. An easyaccess nose piece makes the nailer ideal for use in narrow or restricted spaces. Engineered to accommodate 15-35mm pins, with diameters ranging from 2.6 to 3.7mm at 15 degrees, the DCN890’s angled magazine has an impressive capacity of 33 plastic collated pins. Two different pin types (standard & extra hard) and a full complement of clips and accessories available from Powers, provide a convenient, complete solution for the professional user. Pins are available in 15-35mm length for standard application, and 13-22mm length for extra hard concrete. Using 20mm standard (2.6mm diameter) nails, a fully charged single battery will drive up to 600 shots or 245 metres of drywall track (nails spaced at 40cm apart), thanks to the high capacity XR 5.0Ah battery platform. Its DEWALT Brushless motor also makes the unit more efficient, compact and lighter in weight, with an overall longer operational life. The DCN890 is available to purchase as a bare unit (DCN890N) for existing DEWALT XR 18V system users with 1 x drywall nose piece (DCN8904), or in a combination kit (DCN890P2) with 2 x 18V 5.0Ah batteries, charger, kitbox and 2 x nose pieces (DCN8903

non-magnetic for Powers Stick-E® accessories, and DCN8904 for drywall). A magnetic nose piece (DCN8902), designed for metal MEP accessories, is available as an optional attachment, and all three nose pieces can be purchased as individual accessories. Twin LED work lights have been integrated into the nailer to facilitate visibility in low light situations or workspaces. These dual function lights also illuminate to alert the user of the unit’s status through a series of flash sequences—indicating low battery, battery temperature, or a jam or stall error. Derek McClure, Stanley Black & Decker said, “For heavy-duty masonry fastening, the high-performance DCN890 offers a dedicated solution that delivers all the durability, reliability, speed and runtime to carry out an extensive variety of demanding professional jobsite applications.” 

DCN 18V XR CORDLESS CONCRETE NAILER

CORDLESS CONCRETE NAILER WITH RAPID CYCLE™ FOR FAST, CONTINUOUS NAILING BRUSHLESS MOTOR • Comparable speed to gas nailer • Compact design

GAS-FREE OPERATION • Runs on 18V XR battery • Up to 600 shots per charge*

EASY MAINTENANCE • Replace driver blade <2 minutes • Field-serviceable by user

SINGLE / RAPID MODE + POWER ADJUSTMENT • 3 settings for pin depth adjustment • Application versatility

TOOL-FREE STALL RELEASE • Returns driver if tool is stalled or jammed

FEATURED MAGAZINE • Angled for access in tight areas • Removable for tool-free maintenance • High capacity (33 pins)

REMOVABLE NOSE PIECE • Interchangeable for versatility (MEPD) • Allows tool-free maintenance

The DCN890 nail range includes lengths measuring 15-35mm in length and 2.6-3.0mm in diameter. User-friendly colour coding clearly defines the nails as yellow for general purpose use, or red for extra hard concrete. *With 5.0Ah battery pack, driving 3/4” .102 fasteners into concrete.

DUAL LEDS • Illuminate work surface • Provide diagnostics on tool

Standard Nails

XH Extra Hard Nails

CSS F.A.T. MAG 43

PUZZLES Monster Crossword 1

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ACROSS 1. Diver’s breathing tube 6. Connective tissues 11. Emotionally empty 15. Public profile 16. Tropical vine 17. Wither 18. Disgustingly 21. New York/ Ontario falls 22. Linked to the web 23. Mistreat (3-3) 24. Crazy 28. Resound 30. Dark blue 32. Goes out of date 35. Striped cat 37. Sing-along entertainment 38. Brazilian dance 40. US president, ... Lincoln 43. Truncate 45. Carnival, ... Gras 47. Pungent bulb 48. Tagging 52. Tearful gasp 53. Reminders 56. Straighten (rope) 58. Itchy rash 60. Purgative 61. Actress, ... Streep 62. Taunting 64. Soak (up) 65. Cremation vessel 67. Flags 69. Separate 72. Immobility 75. Russia’s ... Mountains 77. Measure of length 78. Decorates (cake) 79. Flying saucers (1,1,2) 81. Feeling of unease 83. Portable light 84. Ground porridge flakes 86. Bawled 87. Body sacs 90. Computer input device (1,1-3) 92. Astronaut, ... Armstrong 93. Alice In Wonderland star, ... Bonham Carter 95. Floating frozen sheet (3,4) 96. Nuisance 98. Hut 99. Nominated 100. Cite author 101. Famous UK school 102. Baghdad is there 103. Cordon ...

cookery 104. American air force (1,1,1,1) 106. Data 110. Urge to action 113. Virile man 115. Philippines capital 116. Partial refunds 117. Rubber 118. Snip 119. Distant scene 122. Swarms 125. Snares 126. Worried 127. Immature insects 129. Harness 130. Narrow valley 131. Cambodia’s neighbour 132. Ancient harp 133. Mediterranean volcano 134. Captivate 137. Laconic 138. Looked upon 142. Catch glimpse of 143. Amateur 145. Aquaplane (5-3) 146. Pseudonym, ... plume (3,2) 149. Arose (from) 151. Faces up to 152. Engraves 154. Terrestrial 156. Poetic term for pasture 157. Pendant shapes 159. Musical pace 161. Showery 163. Revolutionary 168. Andes nation 171. Fables 172. Snagging 176. Native animals 177. Exhumes (4,2) 180. Parsley or sage 181. Sure-fire thing 183. Lowest 187. Daffodil colour 188. Violet antiseptic 190. Titillating material 191. Guarantee 192. Bridge over gorge 193. Welsh vegetables 194. Master of Ceremonies 195. Daytime show 196. Cut into three 197. Acupuncture spikes DOWN 1. Seaweedwrapped snack 2. Hideous monsters 3. Actor, ... Spacey 4. Inflatable

mattress 5. Fleshy ear part (3,4) 6. African republic, Sierra ... 7. Mooring weight 8. Weather feature (2,4) 9. Deviously 10. Japanese warrior 11. Dog, Great ... 12. Ethiopia’s Addis ... 13. Approaches 14. College supervisors 19. At your ... & call 20. Exist 25. End of pen 26. Conscious 27. Likely touchdown time (1,1,1) 29. Cluster of bananas 31. Similar 32. Scientist’s workplace 33. Diva, ... donna 34. Cardiac monitor (1,1,1) 36. Desire to succeed 39. Underground room 40. Competently 41. Egotist 42. Updated 44. No trouble 46. Tiny island 47. Follow directives 49. Betray secret 50. Abandon 51. Fisherman’s jumper 53. Hopping marsupial 54. Volley of bullets 55. English garden county 57. Jolt 59. Hold tightly 63. Screeches harshly 66. Diabetes preparation 67. Coated with gold 68. Spruce up 70. Scornful cry 71. Lavishly 73. Exempt from, ... to 74. Subtle difference 76. Stimulant drug 80. Former site of London’s press (5,6) 82. Swindle 85. Slugs 88. Cruel people 89. Crooner, Frank ... 90. Orchestra member 91. Want 94. Maritime 97. Early anaesthetic

104. Nervy 105. Starvation period 106. Move restlessly 107. Grotto 108. Dim-witted 109. Robs, ... from 111. Annoyance 112. Served (soup) 113. Perceived 114. Expels (lawyer) 120. Recognise 121. Concertinaed 123. The works 124. Most humid 127. Powerful 128. Lace hole 135. Nephew’s sister 136. Roguish 139. Revive (interest) 140. Antelope 141. Mideast region, ... Strip 144. Debauched Roman emperor 147. Peace prize city 148. Costly 150. Quarrel 153. Operator 155. Timber fasteners 158. Peruses 160. Impoverished 162. Pimply condition 164. Arabian folk hero, ... Baba 165. Rock band equipment 166. Postponed 167. Painter, Leonardo ... (2,5) 169. Car for hire 170. Military operations 172. Chopped down 173. Fixate 174. Culturally revered 175. Fine gravel 177. Fantasy 178. Thin mortar 179. Confederation 180. Raise up 182. Trifled (with) 184. Wise saying 185. Balanced 186. Ballet skirts 187. Harvard’s rival 189. Unfluctuating

Sudoku 

CSS F.A.T. MAG 45

SOLUTIONS

Brought to you by

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46 CSS F.A.T. MAG

THUNDER ZONE IMPACT DRIVER BITS PATENTED SPIRAL IMPACT ZONE the ULTIMATE torsion bit for Impact Drivers.

ST AN

Lo w

DA R

Stress concentrated at tip causes premature breakage

TH St

re s

Stress dispersed through the spiral torsion zone preventing breakage

re s

PURE POWER. PURE THUNDER ZONE

CSS STORE LOCATIONS These stores might all be independent traders, but due to their alliance with the CSS group, over 85 stores nationally, they work as a collective and

CSS member stores are recognised by their ‘Proud Member of CSS sign’ displayed on their building. Be rest assured that the business displaying the sign is a trusted distributor of quality products that are backed by exceptional knowledge, service and support.

customers who require it.

If you need a national supply arrangement for your business, contact your nearest CSS member store.

AG & Trade

QLD

C & L Tool Centre

Resources Trading

DBF Tools Qld

Minewarehouse.com

Queensland Tools & Construction Supplies

Broome Bolt Supplies

Urenco Supplies

Banks Bolts & Fasteners

Centenary Power Tools

D J’s Steel & Concrete

Mount Isa Mining Supplies

CFI

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