Gadgets & Tools

Quick way to measure up

The new compact class of HVAC measuring instruments from Testo have been designed for a wide range of HVAC tasks, from servicing heating systems to installing and maintaining air conditioning and ventilation systems. Instruments in the range can take a variety of measurements, such as temperature, pressure, CO2, illuminance, and humidity.

Measurement values are determined and displayed quickly via the user-friendly Testo Smart App. Not only does the app ensure all measurement menus are available, it also allows a practical second screen function, measured value storage, analysis and documentation in the smart assistant at any time.

With the temperature measuring instruments – Testo 922, 925 and 110 and probes TE Type K, NTC, Pt100 – extremely high and low temperatures can be measured precisely and easily in almost any medium. Meanwhile, the new differential pressure measuring instruments (512-1 and 512-2) can be used to measure low and high pressures, when checking heating systems for example.

◼ phamnews.co.uk/323/13

Shedding light on the dark corners

Part of the M18 Packout series from Milwaukee, the Light/Charger unit delivers all day multi-directional lighting and charging. It can be used as part of a Packout stack (as pictured) or on its own. This portable light delivers 3000 lumens of TrueView high definition output and is fully compatible with the Packout modular storage system.

Three independent rotating light heads allow for complete control over lighting direction. Users can manage output and runtime on this portable work light with three different modes (All Lights, Main Panel, or Back/Front Lights), each including high, medium and low settings for up to 31 hours of runtime with one M18 RedLithium 5.0Ah battery.

There is a 240V AC input for all day runtime and M18 battery charging. This light also allows for charging devices with the 2.1 Amp USB output and storage for small items inside the intgrated compartment.

◼ phamnews.co.uk/323/14

Rapid adjustment pliers

Suitable for a wide range of maintenance and plumbing jobs, the new rapid-adjustment water pump pliers from Laser Tools are designed to hold pipes, components and fixings with a strong grip that won’t let go. Three sizes are available: 180, 250 and 300mm. They all feature a rapid-adjust, push-button mechanism that locks the pliers in position. A quick press will adjust them again for the next job.

The 180mm version features 20 set positions that adjust from 0-42mm; the 260mm pliers have 16 positions and adjust from 0-50mm. The larger 300mm pliers feature 29 set positions and adjust right up to 70mm.

Manufactured from high carbon steel for wear-resistance, the adjustable jaws feature directional serrations that bite into the job. Combined with grippy texture-dipped handles, these pliers are designed to not slip.

See the new rapid-adjustment water pump pliers in action on YouTube using the link below.

◼ phamnews.co.uk/323/15

Avoid drilling in the wrong place

Helping you ‘see’ what’s behind the wall before drilling though, the GMS 120 Professional from Bosch can detect materials up to a depth of 12cm. It offers precise detection, automatic calibration, and an alert system, making it easy to use. The product comes with a number of detection modes, including metal, live wire, and stud. Users can quickly and easily switch between the different modes, depending on the specific task at hand. The LCD screen displays a range of information such as the type of material detected and the approximate depth of the object. It also includes a Centre Finder indication to make it easier for users to locate the object precisely. The LED ring around the center marking hole turns red for a detected object, yellow for a nearby object, and green when no object has been detected.

◼ phamnews.co.uk/323/16

Spoilt for choice in woodscrews

The multi-purpose woodscrew range from Spectre has been enhanced with the addition of two new sizes to include 6.0 x 200mm and 6.0 x 240mm woodscrews and will shortly also include 8.0 x 180, 200, 240 and 280mm versions too. Suitable for use in roof insulation applications, these longer screws provide a more secure grip and help to penetrate the full depth of the insulation. As with all Spectre screws, the product size is included on the packaging to make clear what’s inside.

◼ phamnews.co.uk/323/17

Brush up on your maths for energy efficiency

The Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE) has announced plans to develop educational maths resources to equip professionals and apprentices with clearer knowledge of household utility bills, including energy and water. This project was introduced following the launch of the government’s £560 million Multiply programme in spring 2022, which set out to improve numeracy skills.

Working with colleges and approved training centres across the UK, the resources will involve applying a range of calculations to manage water and energy usage, with the aim of achieving financial savings for system users. Resources are being developed in two parts. Training resources