Electric Tools Provide Fast Motorized Muscle

Electric tools generate much more power than a lone human can provide. These tools add the power of electric motors to manual tools. The resulting electric power tools are excellent labor saving devices. The tedious cranking of the hand auger has been replaced by the quick efficiency of the electric drill. The back-breaking hand saw has been outpaced by the fast and easy electric circular saw. Electric sanders smooth woodworking projects thousands of times faster than hand sanding ever could.

Many electric tools operate using standard house current and voltage. This is a great advantage at the worksite, where that is the only type of electrical connection available. Often this means that extension cords must run from the connection to the power tool. This can be a safety hazard at a worksite. First, some extension cords are not rated to handle the currents needed by some power tools. The second danger is that these long cords are a tripping hazard, especially if multiple cords are used.

Battery powered electric tools eliminate the need for extension cords. These power tools utilize small but powerful rechargeable electric batteries. The worker has much more freedom to take his electric tool where it is needed. However, batteries need recharging, and heavy use means more frequent recharging periods. Because recharging may take several hours or overnight, start the job with several fully charged batteries at the beginning of the day. Let all the electric tool batteries recharge each night.

In a workshop, cords and batteries are not problems. All electric tools would simply plug into the house receptacles. Some power tools such as nailers run on compressed air. However, even a nailer needs an electric compressor. Table saws, band saws, sanders, planers, joiners, and even lathes can run on standard electric current. If an electric tool needs more demanding electric power, this can be installed for a nominal fee.

Electric powered tools are superior to tools that run on gasoline, except where electricity is unavailable. For example, loggers in mountainous terrain would certain use gasoline chain saws. For most other jobs, the electrically powered tool has the convenience advantage. On everyday worksites, the work crew using electric tools never has to worry about running out for another can of electricity!

The Organized Tool Box

by Sarah Wagner

Are you always digging around for the right tool? Hammers abound, but why are the flat-edge screwdrivers always missing? Wouldn’t it be great to have everything in an easy-to-find space? Here are some steps and tips to get you on your way. 

Step 1: Inventory. 

First, start by gathering all your tools. Make a list of the locations where you found your tools. Garage, kitchen, basement, car, truck? Lay them all out on a bedsheet or blanket. Sort them by type to get an idea of how many different kinds of tools you have. 

Next, examine each tool and decide what to keep.
 
Is it a duplicate? If so, how many of this tool do I need?
Have I ever used it? Some tools passed down thru the family should be kept for sentimental reasons, but others that you’ve never used can surely go.

Is it broken? If it isn’t usable and can’t be repaired then discard it.
Have I replaced it with a multi-purpose tool that does the job more efficiently?

Does a neighbor have a better version that I usually borrow?

Toss out the broken tools, sell the good ones on eBay, get a tax break by donating to a local charitable organization, have a “yard sale for men” or help a favorite college grad begin their first tool box. Only keep the tools you are sure to use in the future. 

Step 2: Make a Plan. 

Using your list of locations from step 1, think about how and where you use your tools. You may decide to centralize your tools in the garage or basement. Begin sorting your tool collection into groups according to their desired location. This will help you to determine the storage space requirements for each area. 

Step 3: Choose your Tool Storage System. 

The internet is a great tool for finding the latest tool storage solutions. Portable tool boxes are great for on-the-go types to keep in their car or truck. Behind-the-wheel tool boxes for pickup trucks are a great way to take advantage of unused truck bed space. If you have a ton of small parts, you may consider some plastic storage cabinets with sliding drawers. Pegboards work nicely in the garage or basement workspace to keep tools handy and off the countertops. Maybe you need some new shelving to store larger-sized tools. 

Step 4: Implement your new Tool Storage System. 

If you’ve ordered a new tool box or some other item, then when it arrives begin to place your tools in order. Once you’ve got everything in its place, remember to always take the extra time to put items away when they are done being used. If you’ve added a pegboard, consider drawing an outline around each tool as it hangs on the pegboard to make it easier to know where to return the tool. 

Get motivated—you’ll be glad you did. Once you’re organized, maybe you’ll even have space to buy some new tools! 

Copyright 2006, netCityShops, All rights reserved.

Cordless Tools Let You Cut The Cord

Cordless tools have finally reached the point where they can deliver power equal to their corded counterparts. This is due to advances in cordless battery technology. Early cordless batteries were weak and needed frequent recharging. Cordless tool battery development has improved to increase both the battery life and the power delivered. Many cordless power tools are now the equal of the same tool run off a cord.

There is no denying that cordless power tools are convenient. They are much easier to handle without towing a long extension cord behind them. The cordless nature of these tools allows workers to take them almost anywhere on the job site. Powered by modular rechargeable battery packs, cordless power tool weights compare favorably to the corded version. Cordless power tools can be clipped to tool belts for easy carrying.

The cordless tool is also much safer than those running on live current. Because no extension cord is needed, cordless units cannot trip other workers. There is no chance of accidentally cutting through one's own power cord, or that of another worker. The enclosed charge of the cordless tool's battery means greatly decreased chances for electric shock. When using cordless power tools, the chance for any electrical accident is greatly reduced.

Cordless power tools have their own special needs, however. The cordless batteries need periodic recharging. The harder and longer a cordless tool is used, the more frequently the battery must be recharged. For extended projects, keep several charged batteries on hand for each cordless tool. It is much less expensive for a worker to swap out a used battery for a charged one. Cordless power tool batteries take several hours to overnight to fully recharge. The construction crew chief must not forget to do this each night.

If you own tools that are cordless, observe the battery care instructions carefully. Most cordless items lose power gradually, indicating that recharging is needed. Cordless batteries usually trickle-charge over several hours, although faster recharging units may be available. Some cordless batteries should be stored while connected to the recharger. Others should not be connected during long periods of storage. Get the most of your cordless power tools by taking care of the batteries.

Cordless drills, saws, and even yard care tools are available. Cordless units are lightweight and easy to use. Keep your batteries properly charged and stored, and your cordless tools will give you good service for a long time.