Best Guide to Tools

By Debbie Johnston

The power tools of today are not the same as the ones that were carefully placed on the pegboard near your grandfather’s workbench- they are actually quite far from it. Modern technology has made amazing advances in the simplest of features, including automatic shut-off, enhanced guarding and more resilient materials just to name a few. But one trait has come to be worth its weight in gold within the power tool industry, and that’s the owner’s manual.

Today’s manuals not only have better graphics showing its users what each part of the device should look like (and what to do when it doesn’t), many individual manufacturers will have explicit directions and instructions for the safety and maintenance of each individual power tool. Of course, no instructions are completely fool proof, especially if the content of such manuals isn’t completely understood by the user. This is why many manufacturers have implemented training seminars and classes for both companies and individuals on the proper procedures for optimum performance and safety. Local home improvement stores often hold such classes and seminars on a regular basis.

However, a bit of common sense and know-how never hurt anyone, so there are a few safety guidelines which should be followed by all users of power tools. For example, wearing the proper clothing is essential, and you should never wear loose clothing that could easily get caught in a power tool. Safety gear is crucial- hard hat, safety goggles and gloves, along with the proper footwear. Using the right tool, whether it be size or something else, for the job at hand, including the right type of extension cord (indoor, outdoor, proper length) if applicable. The work area should be clean, uncluttered and well lit. Keep all electric tools away from water and flammables. Do not use power tools with frayed or damaged cords. Damaged parts anywhere in a power tool, including saw blades and drill bits, can cause damage to the tool itself or the individual performing the task. Unplug all electric power tools when finished with or before changing to another tool.

As far as the maintenance aspect of such power tools, common sense is again of the highest importance. For example, making sure that the proper guards are placed on saw blades when not in use is both a safety and maintenance issue. Saw blades need to be sharp to deliver the best performance possible, but can also be incredibly dangerous, so taking the proper preventive measures will yield the best results in all aspects, not just project outcome.

For more information on power tool basics, the U.S. government has many publications that can be of high value to consumers. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission offers product recall information, and OSHA has a few such publishings regarding both general industry and personal use of power tools.

Best Guide to Tools

By Donald Lawson

Air tools are great work savers. However, for years most people thought you had to be either rich or a large full time auto repair shop to have an air system.

Fortunately for today's consumer, setting up an air system is fairly inexpensive and quick.

You can get started with just the basics and gradually add tools as you need them.

What You Need: The Basics

• An air compressor
• Hose
• Regultor & Guages
• Air Tools

Next Step: Choosing The Right Compressor

When choosing the compressor, you should have in mind the type of tools you'll be using. There should be a tag on the compressor that rates the "Air Delivery". It may say something like "5.9 AVG. SCFM @ 90 psi."

Now, on your air tool there is another number, this number is called the "Air Requirement" number. This number will look like "5.5 AVG. SCFM @ 90 psi."

All you have to do is make sure the "Air Delivery" number on the compressor is larger than the "Air Requirement" number on the tool or tools that you'll be using.

Next Step: Choosing the Right Fittings

There are two types of fitting for air tools. Industrial and Automotive. These two types of fittings CAN NOT be interchanged. You'll have to decide before buying components which style you want.

You'll also have to determine which size of fitting you want. Fittings are measured by the inside diameter (commonly called the ID). I personally prefer the 3/8ths over the 1/4 inch, but either will work well for the occasional user.

Be sure to choose the same NPT number on the air inlet of your tool as the fitting NPT number.

Next Step: Choosing the Hose System

You could just get by with air hoses laying all over the place, but that is dangerous and it makes your Garage or Shop look cluttered.

You should invest in either a reel storage system or coil hose if you you won't be far from the compressor.

Next Step: The Tools

As stated above. Decide early on which tools you'll be using and make sure your compressors "Air Delivery" rating is higher than the tools "Air Requirement" rating. One of the best practices to use it to determine what the largest tool that you will ever use is. For most of us that may be a Air Impact Wrench.

Setting up the system may sound complicated, but it's really rather easy. Should you need additional information about air tools and compressors, check out the only guides at Campbell Hausfeld at www.chpower.com.

Air Sanders: Forget electric, go air!
Author: Red Hill Supply

An air sander is a common air tool often overlooked by most people. If you already have an air compressor to run your impact wrench, you may consider purchasing an air sander instead of an electric model. Your average off the shelf electric sander is fine for little home projects. But if you are really concerned about production and speed, an air sander will blow it away. These tools are also more rugged, versatile and lighter. The main reason is the power source is your air compressor, not the little electric motor in the sander. This also makes them easier to fit into weird places and hold over your head to reach a ceiling. At the end of the day, an air sander is much kinder to your hands, while delivering more power. They also come in models that are both sanders and buffers. I really recommend one of these if you are a car or boat enthusiast. An air buffer will make quick work of a long wax job on your favorite ski boat. You can then turn around and use the same tool to sand down your kitchen cabinets for painting. Air sanders are really versatile tools and a great addition to your air tools for your garage compressor. There are also orbital sanders, dual action sanders and palm grip sanders for any application you might run across. It may be time to take a second look at that air compressor stuffed in the garage. They can do a lot more than just fill up tires and run impact wrenches.

Brought to you by AAArticles, and ABBlogs! ...

For more resources on Best Guide to Tools, see http://www.bestguidetotools.com!