Gadgets & Tools

Pressguns get smarter

The latest generation of press tools from Viega includes the updated including Bluetooth connectivity, safer installation, and longer service intervals. It is suitable for installers working on residential and light commercial projects.

At just .6kg, the Picco 6 Plus is suitable for use on both residential and light commercial projects and, being700g lighter than the previous generation, allows comfortable, one-handed operation. The new tool is compatible with metallic Viega press connectors from to mm, Megapress thick-walled steel tube connectors from 3/8 to 3/4 inch, and plastic and multilayer composite pipe systems from to mm.

The pressgun connects via Bluetooth to the Viega Tool Services app, giving users full tool information and the current status, including battery level and the total number of pressings since the than previous models, at pressings or four years, whichever pressings. phamnews.co.uk/

Enlarging condensate pipe holes

The Condensemate from Clipacore has been designed for boiler installations that require upgrading mm waste pipe. The kit includes a mm core bit that inserts into the existing open - mm hole. Once the outer core bit has scarred the wall, the inner long core bit serving as a guide can

Before After simply be removed by hand.

Delivering consistently symmetrical holes, the Condensemate is said to be easy to use and has been designed to eliminate the risk of core bits skidding and damaging the property.

It comes in an all-in-one kit comprising a 1/2in drill adaptor for the arbor, a long threaded adaptor for the use of dual cores, quick release clip, compression spring, and a mm-long, mm diamond core bit. phamnews.co.uk/

Drill bits stand up to the hard tile challenge

Developed specially for drilling in hard tiles, the Expert HEX- Hard Ceramic Tile drill bits from Bosch Professional are claimed to have a lifetime up to 10 times longer than other carbide-tipped drill bits. The product is part of the company’s wider New Expert range of accessories that

The carbide tip is distinguished by an asymmetric form, giving it teeth that work through any hard material more reliably prevents friction and heat from being generated instead of drilling progress. It also allows a precise drilling start without slipping on the tile. The integrated open stock between the steel body and carbide cutting edges ensures stable drilling progress over its lifetime.

For use with conventional drills and impact drivers, the new tile drill bit range comprises eight sizes with a diameter from 3 to 12mm, and covers all common applications. phamnews.co.uk/

Adding to its LXT range of cordless machines, Makita has unveiled a new Angle Drill (DDA ), designed for a wide range of applications, especially when drilling in tight, awkward spaces.

The new angle drill enables forward or reverse rotation so the bit can be easily removed from the work material. This machine delivers a no-load speed of up to rpm, with two speed options so that users can easily match the output to the task at hand. For ease of use and visibility,

Cut through plastic pipe with ease

The BiX pipe cutter is a new compact tool from Knipex that has been designed to cut plastic pipes and sealing sleeves without shavings. The tool’s blade can be used in two positions: in the middle for regular cutting of various pipe diameters, or with the external blade, enabling sealing sleeves to be cut close to the wall. Fitting comfortably in one hand and rotated by °, the BiX can be used close to walls and cuts through plastic drain pipes and empty electrical conduits with very little unreinforced plastic pipes with a diameter of to mm and a wall thickness of up to mm. The tool itself is cast -reinforced plastic, while the blades (of which two spares are included) are manufactured from surgical stainless steel. phamnews.co.uk/

New angle on drilling in tight,

the tool features an LED job light.

Kevin Brannigan, marketing manager at Makita, says: “Thanks to LXT battery technology, the DDA delivers outstanding performance for increased inclusion of our Brushless ‘BL’ motor power and run-time.” phamnews.co.uk/