Tool Kit

I bought my hubby a Gerber Suspension multi tool w/ the extra tool kit. What/where does the adapter attach?

Merry Christmas

It slides onto the skinny built-in phillips-head screwdriver (not the flat-head screwdriver like you might expect).

Software Selection Tool Kit Free from Technology Group International

Founded in 1990 and headquartered in Toledo, Ohio, Technology Group International (TGI) is a proven technology leader delivering Tier 1 application software functionality at a price performance level that can be readily accepted by organizations of all sizes. Specializing in software solutions for small and mid-market manufacturing and distribution companies, TGI's integrated Enterprise Series software suite is a complete business process management solution. The product offering includes Enterprise Resources Planning (ERP), Manufacturing Resource Planning (MRP), Supply Chain Management (SCM), Warehouse Management System (WMS), Advanced Planning and Scheduling (APS), Decision Support System (DSS), Business Intelligence, Manufacturing Execution System (MES), and eCommerce. TGI implements, maintains, enhances, and supports its packaged distribution and manufacturing software solutions directly and via its channel partners.
"For over a decade, we've encountered corporate executives who struggle with the demands of the software selection process. Many find choosing the right software evaluation methodology or even locating a quality system consultant an overwhelming task. In an effort to help these companies, TGI developed and published a free resource for project managers called the Software Selection Tool Kit," according to Rebecca Gill, vice-president of Technology Group International (TGI).
The Software Selection Tool Kit is free to all manufacturing and distribution companies who are engaged in a system evaluation project. It was designed to provide guidance and software selection assistance in an economical and time efficient manner. Gill noted, "Although these documents are the property of TGI and copyrighted, we have opened usage of tool kit up to all manufacturers and distributors who are in the process of selecting a new software package. The kit allows small to medium size companies (SMB) locate and select the best enterprise package for their firm, without having to spend a significant portion of their budget on consulting services."
In addition to end users, TGI also allows independent consultant's access to the Software Selection Tool Kit. Consultants are welcome to utilize the templates and worksheets within their consulting practice, as long as the consultant is an independent and unbiased resource. Consultant authorization of the tool kit is available by contacting TGI's corporate office.
The white papers and templates cover all aspects of system evaluation for a variety of packages including ERP software, distribution software, manufacturing software, warehouse management systems, e-commerce software, as well as business intelligence and decision support systems. Documents are available twenty-four hours a day and are completely free. They are designed for the self-serve type of project team that simply needs a little help and a few pointers when engaging in the software selection process.

About the Author

Technology Group International
www.tgiltd.com
Rebecca Gill
rgill@tgiltd.com
800-837-0028

Tool Kit

Jig Saw Blades

How can I cut PVC pipe (that does NOT have the factory ends) level / square so it can stand up straight?

I have a large scrap PVC pipe (just over 9" outside diameter, 6' long, 3/4" thick walls) and it does NOT have the factory cuts on the end, so the ends aren't level. If I stand the pipe up on a concrete floor, it will fall down because the ends are crooked.

How can I make a straight level cut so it will stand up on both ends at near perfect levelness? Basically, I need to reproduce the square factory cuts @ home.

The only method I can think of is to wrap duct tape around it once and overlap it a bit. When the ends of duct tape match up evenly, I'll use a marker & the edge of the duct tape like a ruler and mark around the pipe. Remove the tape, then cut w/ a jig saw on the line I just created.

Any other ideas?

Other misc. questions:
a. What kind of jig saw blade should I use?
b. Any other recommendations besides duct tape to wrap around the pipe?

Thank you!

Buy/find a coupling that is made for that size pipe. Slip it on the uneven end, and mark or cut the pipe with the edge of the coupling as your guide. It will be perfectly square.

You can use a metal or wood blade for the cut, even a chain saw.

Or, you can leave the coupling on the uneven end. Since the coupling will create a square end it will stand upright on the coupling, it will be a little larger, therefore more stable, and you do not have to make a cut.

A Guide to Woodworking Jigs

If you have a woodworking workshop, it is likely that you will need a woodworking jig. Jigs are useful for repetitive tasks in many woodworking projects, and help in making complex tasks quicker and easier. Woodworking jigs are readily available from hardware stores, and are usually very cheap. It is even more cost effective to build your own from scrap wood, and can be beneficial because you can create a jig suited to your specific needs and taste. Depending on the type and amount of projects you like to do, you will need a variety of different jigs.

Different Types of Woodworking Jigs

Dovetail Jigs: Dovetail jigs are useful for building dovetail joints accurately. Dovetail jigs can be purchased at relatively inexpensive prices. You could even build your own dovetail jig using templates from the internet or stores that sell woodworking supplies. If sourced successfully, many of these templates will allow you to make up to twelve different jig sizes.

If you are going to make your own jigs, you may want to purchase a dovetail bit for your router and a dovetail saw. Good templates will assist you in making variably spaced or fixed dovetails for a variety of projects including drawers, cabinets and small boxes.

A dovetail saw is a good purchase, because it need not only be used for cutting dovetails, but can also cut other fine joints for other projects. Dovetail saws have thinner blades which allow for greater accuracy. It is important to purchase good quality tools for a more professional result on your projects. When buying a dovetail saw, look for about fourteen to seventeen points per inch.

Dowel Jigs: A dowel jig is used for making good quality dowels. If you are going to be using thick timber, it is best to use a self-centering jig for better accuracy. There are a variety of sizes available, from a quarter to one half inch. There are complete kits available from woodworking supply shops that include the dowel jig and several hundred dowels in a variety of sizes.

Kreg Jig: Kreg jigs are ideal for cabinet making. Naturally, you will want the movement of the drawers to be smooth, so perfectly positioned slides are imperative. The use of kreg jigs is extremely convenient as you will not need to measure and mark the spaces for the drawer slides. This will make it easier to mount metal drawer slides. Kreg jigs can be used for center, bottom or extension mounted drawers. A kreg jig is an inexpensive, yet extremely versatile piece of equipment.

Building Your Own Woodworking Jigs:

If you build your own woodworking jigs, you will save a lot of money in supplies. You can use inexpensive pieces of material, and scrap wood for making your own jigs. Because you will only be using the jig for one project, you do not want to spend too much money on materials. If you are planning on reusing your jigs, it is advisable to build with a stronger and more durable hardwood. It is easy to source instructions on making your own jigs in woodworking books or magazines. Instructions on making your own jig are also readily available on the internet, and can be printed and stored for future reference.

About the Author

Coastal tool hire is the largest and best known power tool and equipment hire brand in Southern Africa with over 90 branches in operation. Visit http://www.coastalhire.co.za for more info and to check out franchise opportunities in South Africa.

Jig Saw Blades

Ion Cordless

Hassle Free Cordless Drills

A drill is used in various materials for drilling holes. It is a rotating drill bit that is commonly used in woodworking, construction and even metalworking. A cordless drill is an electric type of drill which uses batteries that can be recharged. Cordless drill became comfortable electrical machinery for home usage and carpentry work. Aside from this, more improvements in its features are being done to assure the versatility of this drill.

Body: A drill is used in various materials for drilling holes. It is a rotating drill bit that is commonly used in woodworking, construction and metalworking. A cordless drill is an electric type of drill which uses batteries that can be recharged.

In the older days, the earliest drills were called bow drills. This was used by the ancient Egyptians and Harrapans. The drill press was next one to evolve. This was then powered by different power sources. Hence, a great innovation of power machine tools was invented during the late 19th century. This was the time when drills were introduced. In 1889 at Melbourne, Australia, Mr. Arthur James Arnot and William Blanch Brain invented the first electric drill. Hence, Wilhelm Fein of Germany was the one who invented the portable electric drill. Aside from this, a trigger-like switch was patented by Black & Decker in the year 1917.

The drill bit is then gripped by a chuck at one end of the drill. It is then pressed against the target material and rotated. The drill bit's tip actually does most of the cutting work into its target material, which it may slice off with its regarded thin shavings, using auger bits or twist drills, grinding off the small particles (oil drilling), or crushing and removing pieces of the workpiece (SDS masonry).

A cordless drill is a type of electric drill which uses rechargeable batteries. These drills are available with similar features to an AC mains-powered drill. They are available in the hammer drill configuration. They most also have a clutch setting which allows them to be used for driving screws. Another one available in the market these days would be the Right Angle Drills, which allows a worker to drive screws in a tight space. These are currently less useful than the corded version. However, this is since one of its main functions includes drilling holes through joist and studs in order to run electrical and plumbing. Plus, recent battery innovation allows significantly more drilling and large diameter holes are required (typically 1/2"-1" or larger) in order to drain current cordless drills quickly.

Hence, different materials, which depend on the required application of such drill bit, are used these days. The materials are as follows: Titanium nitride, high and low Carbon steel, Cobalt steel alloys, Tungsten carbide, and Polycrystalline diamond.

Coatings of drills also help to lengthen its life and usage. Such coatings would include Black oxide, which provides lubricity and heat resistance; Titanium nitride (Tin), which is used for coating a high-speed steel bit; Titanium aluminum nitride (TiAN), which extends tool life for five or more times; Titanium carbon nitride (TiCN), which is superior to TIN; Diamond powder, which acts as an abrasive to cuts tile or stone; and Zirconium nitride, for the Craftsman's tool.

Many types of electric drills are powered manually. They either use electricity or compressed air. Aside from this, they are driven by an internal combustion engine. Drills such as jackhammers and pneumatic drills are also usually used in masonry and hand-held drills that are for driving screws.

Types of Drill

Hand powered drills come in many variations. These types have been utilized over the centuries. It uses thinner, as well as a longer spindle and bow combination for downward pressure. Plus, it spins by rubbing both hands around the spindle.

Lists are as follows:

• Brace and bit
• Breast drill, also known as "eggbeater" drill
• Bow drill - an ancient tool used in making fire, for primitive dentistry and woodworking
• Gimlet
• Pin chuck, a small hand-held jewelers drill
• Push drill, a tool using a spiral ratchet mechanism

Pistol-grip (corded) drills have a similar shape with a pistol. There are actually endless varieties of its basic form, being the so called, Right-Angle Drill. Thus, it is a drill used by electricians and plumbers.

Hammer Drills are utilized for drilling masonry just like a standard electric drill. Installing electrical boxes and shelves are the typical application of this hammer.

Rotary hammer drills are used in drilling holes for masonry. Hence, the rotary hammer drill is an electric type as well as a percussion drill that uses weight.

Drill Presses may be bolted to the floor and mounted on a stand. It consists of a column, spindle, table, base and a drill head, which is driven by an induction motor.

Geared head drills have safety interlocks. They often install a power feed on the quill mechanism.

Radial arm drills are used for larger work loads. This is used when there is a need to move loads from its column. This is also since geared head drills can only accommodate up to a limited area.

Mill Drills combines the functions of a drill press and a locking collet. This is for ensuring that the cutting tool will not fall from the spindle.

Cordless drills use either an interchangeable or rechargeable battery. This is in order to facilitate its operation.
Examples of cordless drills and their features in the market today are as follows:

1. 12 Volt Cordless High Performance Drill / Driver (Model # HPD12K-2)

Features:

This is a professional grade high torque motor that provides 175 in. lbs. of torque, along with 2 spring loaded batteries that allow easy installation and removal of batteries. It also features a 2 Position gear box, which is for high torque driving and high speed drilling control. Plus, it has a single sleeved chuck with spindle lock, for easier and faster tightening of screw driver. Lastly, it has drill bit accessories and a 32 Position clutch with micro-adjust torque, for driving various size screws.

2. 19.2-volt Sears Craftsman 11542

The Craftsman 11542 is an excellent value drill that has 420 inches/pounds of torque and two built-in bubble levels. This variable speed cordless drill includes a spindle lock and a 1/2-inch keyless chuck. Its kit also includes two bits, a case, two NiCd batteries with a charger and a light. It weighs about 6 pounds. It price starts at $120.

3. 18-volt Makita BDF452HW

The 18-volt Makita BDF452HW is expensive and weighs 3.5 pounds. It uses lithium-ion batteries, to promote a longer run time. Records indicate that the Makita drill tests that were conducted have shown exceptional performance. It costs $200, along with a 3 year drill warranty and one year warranty for its batteries.

4. 10.8-volt Bosch PS20-2 Pocket Driver

(*est. $120)

The Bosch PS20-2 Pocket Driver has the ability to provide comfort. It is used for light screw-driving works and carpentry. It is packed with a lithium-ion battery and LED light. Thus, this drill weighs only 1.6 pounds. It costs only $120.

5. 3.6-volt Skil iXO2

The 3.6-volt Skil iXO2 is being used in simple jobs such as for needing 2 inches or smaller loads. With 3.6 volts, this drill does not have the power to sustain longer operations. About three hours of charging is needed in order to energize its battery. Its price ranges from $40 to $54.

6. 12-volt Panasonic EY7202GQW

The Panasonic EY7202GQW weighs less than 4 pounds. It is used in driving screws. It only costs $290, along with a one year warranty.

7. Craftsman C3 19.2 volt DieHard Cordless Drill/Driver with LED Light

The Craftsman C3 has a variable speed of 0-400/0-1400 RPM, Braking switch, 1 hour charge, 1/2 in. single sleeve keyless chuck, 19.2 volt DC motor, Auto spindle lock, 2 bubble levels - top and rear, 24-position adjustable torque clutch, bit storage with 2 bits, Built-in LED light and a 2 diehard batteries with charger.

Thus, cordless drills depend on its battery life for its operation length. This means that the longer run time, the more quality work can be done. The ones that have shorter battery capabilities can only be used for small workloads.

However, with the evolution of technology, the latest features of batteries were introduced with great performance to offer, such as the lithium based batteries. Sine these batteries weigh less, they can even lessen the weight of the drill, for easy handling. In fact, even younger ones and women can use cordless drills for home purposes.

About the Author

For more information on
Hassle Free Cordless Drills
please visit our website.

Ion Cordless article

Cordless Impact

What is the collective damage of all wireless technologies on the brain?

I was just sat in my office looking around me at the different things that are now wireless, I have around me:
1. a mobile phone
2. bluetooth keyboard and mouse
3. wifi router
4. wifi in the computer
5. cordless phone.
In the vicinity, I also have:
1. terrestrial television signal
2. radio signal
3. DAB and digital signals for television
4. walkie talkies
5. CB radios
6. Mobile phone mast within 200 metres.

If the mobile phone has a European SAR standard for radiation, does it mean this is the maximum exposure, if so, don't all these signals, collectively, add up to more than more exposure than body can cope with.

Question, does anyone know if the collective damage is beyond European standards, has anyone measured the impact of all these devices combined?

Im gonna go with....none. Why would a wireless signal impact your brain in anyway. And if your cell phone is giving off radiation throw it away that's not good.

Cordless Impact Wrench

An impact wrench is a tool designed to allow mechanics to apply high amounts of torque to a nut and bolt fastening in order to loosen or tighten the fastening with a minimum of effort. Impact wrenches have traditionally required a connection to an air supply in order to generate the necessary power required to apply the necessary force to tighten and loosen nuts properly. One of the latest developments in the market is the release of a high quality cordless impact wrench that does not need to be connected with an air compressor to gain power.

One of the biggest criticisms applied to traditional air guns is that they are quite an unwieldy tool to use - particularly in a restricted environment such as a workshop. An air gun or impact wrench has traditionally required a great deal of air pressure in order to give it the force needed to work properly, and this has meant it being connected permanently to an air supply or compressor, and having a large trailing air hose all the time.

With a cordless impact wrench, it is possible to entirely dispense with the air hose and air compressor, and give yourself the freedom to move around the workshop quickly and conveniently. Cordless tools are much easier to use and more comfortable. Rather than a stream of air, these tools work more like a traditional cordless drill and use a battery for power, although in order to apply the correct amount of torque to a bolt they do tend to have a great deal more control available.

Many manufacturers offer a range of cordless impact wrenches that are designed to suit every single user, depending on the budget and requirements if the individual. Most manufacturers produce a full range of tools to appeal to all individuals, from the cheap weekend tools designed for occasional use through to professional quality air guns that are destined for high levels of use every single day, and must be completely reliable.

Although the initial outlay for a cordless impact wrench often seems high when compared to traditional models, it is important to bear in mind that without the requirement for a full power air compressor, the total purchase price for the system is much lower, and more affordable to different people, making them accessible to home users.

Traditionally, despite offering a full range of tools, different tool manufacturers appeal to a different group of people. Manufacturers like Makita, despite their high levels of build quality and modern reliability are typically seen as being more driven towards the consumer market rather than more recognised toolmakers like DeWalt and Ingersoll Rand, which offer a much better reputation, and are traditionally the first choice for professionals.

Because Ingersoll Rand is renowned as the world's leading air tool manufacturer, they have a reputation for producing the highest quality and most reliable air tools available. Their range of cordless impact wrenches is wide enough to allow for most uses to be covered, from automotive impact wrenches that are great for the workshop through to high powered industrial wrenches that can be used for heavy duty work in factories and other tough environments.

Ingersoll Rand has a constant policy of product improvement and research that allows them to pursue an ongoing development program. This means that IR air tools use new materials like titanium and advanced motors that are designed to make them even more reliable.

From professional quality tools like the StreetLegal ThunderGun 232TGSL, which is powerful enough for use trackside at a motor race through to entry level models like the 225 Impact Wrench, which are fine for the home mechanic, but still feature pro build quality, and reliability, Ingersoll Rand make a fantastic range of air tools that are suited to all purposes, and all users.

About the Author

Jason has been in the construction equipment and industrial sales business for over 10 years. He owns and operates Red Hill Supply to better serve the automotive and industrial industries. -
Air Compressors

Cordless Impact

Cordless Drill

Milwaukee cordless drill grip has dissolved to mush, any idea why?

My Milwaukee cordless drill has (had) a rubber coating on the grip. Over time (~8 yrs) this rubber has deteriorated totally, turning to sticky, gummy mush. I had to scrape it all off, otherwise it would turn my hands black every time I use it. The drill hasn't had a hard life, usually kept in its carrying case in my garage. Has anybody else experienced this? I know a lot of tools have this type of grip so it must work pretty well. Any info would be greatly appreciated. Thanks,

Chris

you might have came in contact with a desolving agent like gasoline, paint thinner, oil,etc.

Cordless Drill Batteries and Your Drill

When looking for the perfect cordless drill you need to be very careful that to look at every problem before purchasing.  You will also want to look at which cordless drill batteries will last the longest.  For a long time, professionals would not touch a cordless drill.  Most professional did not enjoy starting jobs and having their drills stop in the middle of the job.  Also, the burn out rate for these batteries was very high.  A professional could go through 1 or 2 batteries every other month.  As a result, professional craftsman would opt to have wired drills that one had a longer life and two held up to the rigors of the job.  What made it worse was the fact that the batteries cost so much compared to just getting a new drill.  With cost so high, a new market was born for refurbished cordless drill batteries.

Cordless drill batteries have gotten better.  Now, even the cheapest batteries tend to last months or even years.  But the merchants had to do a lot to get them to this point.  That work has started paying off.  Now, craftsmen are tending to pick cordless drills over wired drills.  Thus, giving them more freedom to not have to worry if a work site has the electricity needed to use their drills.

Cordless drills have also taken on the Lithium-Ion battery technology.  Lithium-Ion are a type of battery
composed of Lithium, the lightest metal and the metal that has the highest electrochemical potential. Lithium, however, is an unstable metal, so Lithium-Ion batteries are made from Lithium ions from chemicals. Because of its lightness and high energy density, Lithium-Ion batteries are ideal for portable devices, such as notebook computers. In addition, Lithium-Ion batteries have no memory effect and do not use poisonous metals, such as lead, mercury or cadmium.  The only disadvantage to Lithium-Ion batteries is that they are currently more expensive than NiCad and NiMH battery packs.

That being said, manufacturers are also equipping drills with the NiCad and NiMH battery packs.  NiCad battery are a rechargeable battery with a nickel cathode and a cadmium anode.  They are often used in emergency systems because of its low discharge rate when not in use.  NiCad batteries are great for on the job recharging.  If done right, charging a NiCad battery could take as little as 4 hours.

Cordless drill batteries are also evolving.  I am sure manufactures will even cut down the recharge rate to 2 hour or below.  Some day, I wish.

About the Author

Kenneth Elliott is the owner of Cordless Drill. Were he concentrates on reviews and great deals from all across the net. Check out this review on a 18 Volt Milwaukee Lithium-Ion Hammer Cordless Drill.

Cordless Drill