Tools, Hand & Power

2-Position Ratcheting Screwdriver with LED Light

Tue, 14 May 2013 15:02:12 GMT

GearWrench®, a premier hand tool brand from Apex Tool Group, announces the new 2-Position Ratcheting Screwdriver with LED light technology. The new screwdriver (sku # 82788) has two LED lights that help illuminate a work area, making it easier to work in poorly lit spaces. The 2-Position Ratcheting Screwdriver with LED lights has a 45-tooth ratcheting mechanism with forward, reverse and locked positions to quickly tighten or loosen fasteners. The screwdriver features a stainless steel collar that magnetizes the bit tip to help hold fasteners on the tool, resulting in fewer dropped and lost fasteners.

With the 2-position handle, users can choose the position that is the most comfortable and provides the best leverage to turn the fastener. Users also benefit from 6-bit storage (Phillips #1, #2 and T15, T20, T25 and T127 included) in the handle, making bits easily and quickly accessible. The 4 ∏-inch long shaft provides greater access for end users. “GearWrench continuously strives to make jobs easier for our users,” said Jim Stewart, product manager for GearWrench. “The LED lights on our latest screwdriver help technicians who work in poorly lit areas see more clearly. With this tool, they won’t have to fumble with flashlights or struggle to work on a fastener because of poor lighting conditions. This screwdriver allows users to complete jobs much faster.” The 2-Position Ratcheting Screwdriver offers strength, speed and access, making it easier and quicker to complete jobs. The 2-Position Screwdriver comes with a lifetime warranty. In addition to screwdrivers, GearWrench also produces ratchets, ratcheting and non-ratcheting wrenches, sockets, screw/nut drivers, pliers and specialty tools.

Angle Grinders

Wed, 08 May 2013 17:30:45 GMT

Metabo Corporation, a leading international manufacturer of professional grade portable electric power tools and abrasives for industrial, construction and welding applications, now offers two new powerful, lightweight angle grinders for cutting, grinding and deburring. The W720 and W820 are ideal for use in the repair, maintenance and metalworking industries.

The W720 weighs just 4.4 lbs and has a maximum wheel diameter of 4-1/2”. It features a robust 6.5 A motor with 720 watts of power, 14 inch-lbs of torque and a no-load speed of 11,000 rpm. Metabo’s W820 has a maximum wheel diameter of 5” and weighs just 4.7 lbs. This new grinder features a robust 7.5 A motor with 820 watts of power, 16-inch lbs of torque and a no-load speed of 10,000 rpm. Both grinders feature Metabo’s classic design with slim motor housing and ergonomic side handle, making it comfortable and easy to use throughout the day, especially in overhead applications. A side switch with lock on capability, a spindle lock, auto-stop carbon brushes and a burst-proof wheel guard come standard on both grinders.

The W720 and W820 also include an inner flange, a face spanner, an outer nut and a Type-27 wheel guard. A Type-1 cut-off wheel, carrying case and a variety of abrasives are sold separately.

Impact Wrenches

Wed, 01 May 2013 20:02:45 GMT

Ingersoll Rand has added a new line of compact impact wrenches to their IQV20 Series cordless tools line. The W5001 Series 20V mid-torque Impactools are durable enough to withstand the repetitive operations and high cycles commonly found in the manufacturing, white goods, truck and bus assembly markets. The W5001 Series tools are available in three sizes: 1/4ʺ hex quick change and 3/8" and 1/2" square drives with pin retainers. The W5001 Series tools are lightweight, measure 6″ from tip to tail and boast 190 ft-lb of torque to deliver the right amount of power in tight spaces. These compact tools are ideal for fastening body panels, interior trims and engine compartment components on the assembly line. Industrial tools require high-duty cycle durability in rigorous assembly and manufacturing applications.

The internal brushes that protect the motor from debris are often one of the first components to wear out from repetitive use. The motors on the W5001 Series tools are built with easy-to-replace brushes to extend the tool’s usable life. The W5001 Series tools are constructed with a steel-lined aluminum hammer case to protect the internal components and a patented metal reinforced housing case that enables the tools to survive repeated drops. These durable casings also protect the tool from many of the fluids and chemicals commonly found in the manufacturing environment. The lithium-ion battery that powers the W5001 Series is compatible with the other 3.0 Ah IQV20 Series tools — used for non-precision applications — and the QX Series cordless assembly tools — best for precision fastening needs. The interchangeable battery platform allows plant managers to purchase the entire tool suite for the assembly line, makes it easy to share batteries and chargers, and enables workers to have fully charged batteries on hand to increase uptime.

1” Impact Wrenches

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 15:05:31 GMT

Chicago Pneumatic announces its new CP69 1” impact wrench series. This new addition to Chicago Pneumatic’s industrial tool line is one of the most powerful, durable and comfortable in its class. The new CP69 series is ideal for heavy duty industrial maintenance applications where power and tool reliability are critical. The CP69 series has been redesigned to exceed previously set benchmarks in durability thus making it ideal for harsh industrial environments, including those with higher dust concentrations. Delivering up to 1920 ft-lbs of torque [2600Nm], with a powerful 700 blows/min. (BPM), the CP69 series is ideal for virtually any heavy duty applications in the oil and gas, petrochem, and mining sectors. Features setting the CP69 series apart include a powerful pinless rocking dog clutch with a newly designed oil bath lubrication system. In addition, precision machined and finished steel rotor and end-plate components help ensure optimum durability and tool performance. The new light aluminum alloy clutch housing is protected by a molded rubber front cover, adding to the CP69 series’ inherent durability.

Operator Safety and comfort are key attributes which drive Chicago Pneumatic’s product development engineers. As a result, the new CP69 series offers advanced ergonomic features not found in other similar products. These ergonomic design features include a low vibration level of only 8.7m/s² [ISO28927-2], low operating noise level at only 97dB(A), and an integrated suspension bail. ”By combining power, superior durability and a large variety of ergonomic features, the new CP69 series is the ideal 1” impact wrench for industrial and heavy maintenance applications. It was designed to improve operator safety and productivity.” said Luis Clément, Vice President Chicago Pneumatic Tools. ”It’s definitely a very competitive product that we have brought to the market. With the main accessories included we have eliminated the need for costly options.” The new CP69 series is the only range featuring a 1” industrial pistol and D-handle design, which combines power, durability and comfort. The CP69 is a very competitive value packed tool meeting the needs of industrial users’, from the simplest operations to the most demanding ones.

Ratcheting Socket Wrench

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 15:03:16 GMT

The new 8C ratcheting socket wrench from Lowell Corporation features four sockets that can handle the four most common nut sizes found in utility and construction work. The 1-1/4" x 1-1/16" hex socket is useful for tasks such as tightening heavy hex 3/4" and 5/8" M.J. bolts on clamps and tapping sleeves. The 1-1/8" x 15/16" hex socket can tighten nuts on standard hex 3/4" and 5/8" flange bolts and equipment. In one durable, user-friendly tool Lowell has made it easier for workers to have the right tool for four different tasks, improving worker efficiency and safety.

Instead of carrying two to four different wrenches, a worker now only needs one. Hi-Vis sockets and handle make it easy to find the wrench in a toolbox or on a work site. The tool's ergonomic grip and light weight of 2.5 lbs. make it easier and less fatiguing to use which also improves worker safety. And there's more to the safety story. Too often when tackling a task, a worker will sometimes grab a tool that wasn't designed for the job; injury to both worker, tool, and fastener may result. The 8C minimizes this problem because it gives a worker viable options for four specific applications.

Durability is another plus for the 8C. The solid metal sockets grip nuts firmly. The stamped steel handle is 17" long and 1/2" thick. The ratcheting mechanism has few parts and the action is easily reversed with levers at each end of the wrench head. For turning power, the wrench is conservatively rated at 200 ft. lbs. - strong enough not to break under hard use. The ratchets have 36 teeth resulting in a 10º handle throw that is especially useful for working in tight spots. Lowell’s unique Bolt-Thru design allows bolts to pass entirely through the wrench head so that nuts can be secured on any threaded length. This rugged construction is ideal for applications such as guard rail assembly, leveling pad adjustment, mechanical joints, restraints, couplings, sleeves, repair clamps, saddles, and flange bolts.

Wrench-Free Nibbler

Wed, 17 Apr 2013 15:13:39 GMT

Kett Tool Company introduces the KL-2020 14 Gauge Nibbler, a lightweight, wrench-free nibbler featuring a rotating head for easier operation. The KL-2020 boasts a unique die design that allows for unmatched maneuverability in cutting sheet metal. Metal fabricators, auto manufacturers and construction crews will save time and eliminate on-the-job hassles with the KL-2020 nibbler that can be locked into four different positions (in 90-degree increments). A simple twist of the hand changes the angle of the die while the free-floating punch design extends time between replacements.

“This KL-2020 allows for ease of operation with just a twist of the hand replacing a time-consuming process that requires a wrench with other nibblers,” said Kathy Conlon, president, Kett Tool Company. “Metal workers in all industries will save valuable time and money on the job with this latest product design from Kett Tool.” The KL-2020 cuts 14 gauge C.R. mild steel and most grades of stainless to 18 gauge. At just 10.5 inches and four pounds, this lightweight, four-amp electric nibbler is easy to handle and store at any job site. It delivers a clean burr free cut of flat and corrugated sheet metal up to 65 inches per minute.

Wera Hand Tools

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 19:09:54 GMT

AutomationDirect has expanded its line of Wera hand tools to include ratchets and sockets, as well as combination wrenches, nut drivers, chisel drivers and additional screwdrivers. Seven-piece nutdriver sets ($33) made of chrome plated steel feature hollow shanks to allow access to nuts on long screws and are available in inch and metric sizes. When regular screwdrivers are not quite enough, new chisel screwdrivers are ideal for the job. Suitable for fastening, chiseling, and loosening seized screws, chisel screwdrivers feature a hexagonal blade which goes through the ergonomic handle to an impact cap fitted with a ¼-inch square socket to allow adding a ratchet for extra torque.

Available individually or in six-piece sets, prices start at $9. Reduced diameter tip insulated screwdrivers feature a smaller diameter blade at the tip to allow access to recessed screws such as those used in terminal blocks. Guaranteed safe operation up to 1,000 volts, insulated screwdrivers are available in six-piece sets or individually starting at $7.50. Additional standard screwdrivers include extra-long screwdrivers with 11.81-inch blades, ideal for those hard-to-reach screws. Designed with a laser tip for better grip, the extra long screwdrivers start at $6.50 each; a tamper-proof TX20 TORX screwdriver, ideal for safety switches, is available for $6.50.

Cordless Drill/Driver

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 13:26:57 GMT

Ingersoll Rand has added a new D5140 1/2″ drill/driver to the IQ^V20 Series™ cordless tool line. This tool offers the same durability and high-power performance as the other IQ^V20 Series products and the versatility to switch between the drilling and fastening functions in seconds. The durable drill/driver is engineered to stand up to harsh operating conditions. The all-metal single-sleeved locking and ratcheting chuck has carbide inserts to keep the bit from deforming the drill/driver during tough applications. The housing case protects the D5140 from breaking, as well as from corrosive fluids and chemicals commonly found in automotive and industrial environments.

The D5140 has a 16-position clutch that gives users more control over drilling and fastening applications. The clutch enables the operator to apply the right speed and pressure to complete tasks without damaging surface areas. As a result, the D5140 can be used on any material — including metal, wood or plastic. “The cordless D5140 helps technicians complete service and repair jobs faster because they are free from air lines, and can drill and fasten bolts without switching tools,” said Andrew Bardsley, tools business leader, Ingersoll Rand. “This tool is powerful enough to drill out a broken bolt but has the precision control to fasten a license plate on a car without damaging it.” The drill/driver has a user-friendly ergonomic design and patent-pending overmold grip to minimize vibration and reduce operator fatigue. The metal chuck makes it easy for technicians to maintain firm, positive bit retention and enables users to operate the tool with one hand.

Magnetic Thermoplastic Compounds

Thu, 21 Mar 2013 17:36:30 GMT

Lehvoss North America has introduced LUVOCOM® Detectables, a new line of magnetic thermoplastic compounds that target food processing machine components. These new materials offer weight and cost reduction while maintaining contamination-free processing of foodstuffs. Magnetizable plastics have been in existence for quite some time and are typically injection molded into complex molds and then through a secondary operation magnetized to replace permanently magnetized sintered powder magnets. Up until now the only other option has been to use soft-magnetic plastics used as an alternative to sintered ferrites. In those applications where hard-magnetic or soft-magnetic powders and steel fibers are compounded into the plastic, the downstream detection of smaller particles is not always reliable.

In the food-processing industry a large amount of stainless steel – but to an increasing extent plastics as well - is used in the manufacture of containers, molds, housings, scrapers and other parts. These components don’t always come into direct contact with foodstuffs, but when worn or damaged through typical manufacturing operations may contaminate the food with fragments and particles of various sizes. This problem has increased industry demand for all plastic parts that come into contact with food directly or indirectly be detectable and compliant with food industry standards and specifications.

Through a combination of soft-magnetic components with impact-resistant polymers, Lehvoss has succeeded in producing a range of compounds that are reliably detectable by current food processing industry detection methods. The presence of fragments or particles of injection-molded, extruded and otherwise fabricated plastic parts can be observed through metal or x-ray detection systems. Contaminated food or parts can be apprehended and reliably rejected, even when the foreign particles are only millimeters in size.

The advantages are clear: expensive and heavy stainless steel and other metals can be reliably substituted by the new detectable plastic materials, with a further advantage of lower energy consumption through weight reduction in the production chain. Furthermore, the materials are easy to process, the additives are already well dispersed, and the molded parts have an excellent surface finish. Coloring is also possible, which is important as it provides another means of identification through color coding according to food type. The LUVOCOM Detectables product line is available in many thermoplastic polymers tailored to meet engineering requirements of the end use application

Quick Release Pliers

Tue, 19 Mar 2013 12:50:46 GMT

Removing all types of push-lock fittings is fast and easy with new Quick-Release Pliers introduced by Clean-Fit Products, a division of The Mill-Rose Company. The Quick Release Pliers features a cushion-grip handle with spring action that facilitates a quick and secure grip on copper, PEX and CPVC tubing. Ideal for hard to access areas,

Quick Release Pliers works on all types of 3/8”, 1/2” and 3/4” push-lock fittings and eliminates the need for hard-to-use, and often hard-to-find plastic disconnect clips. Quick Release Pliers feature a heavy-duty design to deliver years of service. This one tool does it all saving time, aggravation and money removing push-on fittings.