Motors and Batteries

Professional and do-it-yourselfer (DIYer) craftsmen can take advantage of the improved motor controls in proliferating portable power tools. Global Information Inc. reports that worldwide demand for power tools, in general, will increase nearly 6 percent annually to $27.3 billion by 2007. In some cases, professional-grade tools are being made available to homeowners who are tackling more complex projects. Among the improvements are lighter weight to reduce fatigue, smaller handles for both men and women with smaller hands, longer lasting batteries, and, of course, improved motors and controls. Four different products demonstrate the improvements.

CORDLESS DRILLS WITH BATTERY OPTIONS

Ryobi designed its newest cordless 0.375-inch drill/drivers in three voltage ranges: a 7.2V, Model HP472K; 9.6V, Model HP496K; and 12V, Model HP412KS. The combination of a more compact and efficient motor and stronger batteries provides more power and 20 percent more run time than previous models. The 12V drill/driver operates at a maximum of 550 rpm and has a variable speed reversible (VSR) trigger switch to provide a slow start and a fast finish. The 12V unit handles 365 screws per charge, which decreases to 275 screws per charge for the 9.6V, and 235 for the 7.2V models. For more information on Ryobi HP Series cordless drills, go to http://rbi.ims.ca/4393-534.

CORDLESS JIGSAW

Designed to be compact and lightweight, the DC330K uses a DEWALT-built motor that operates at speeds up to 3,000 rpm. To reduce vibration during cutting, the jigsaw has a counterbalance mechanism that dampens vibration and reduces fatigue. The total weight of the unit including the battery is 7.5 lbs.
For more information on the DEWALT cordless jigsaw, go to http://rbi.ims.ca/4393-531.

PORTABLE SCREW GUNS

Senco's DuraSpin DS205-14V uses a new 4,000 rpm motor to drive 1- to 2-inch screws to attach drywall to wood or steel. The tool includes a reverse feature to back out screws and dynamic braking to conserve brush wear. With the same horsepower, the new model provides 29 inch-lbs of torque (over 15 percent more than previous units). The new unit is powered by a 2,000-mA battery pack, a 17 percent increase in ampacity. Using an 18V battery pack, another unit, the DS275-18V screw gun is specifically designed for wood-to-wood applications, including screw lengths up to 3 inches. The unit uses a 3,100 rpm motor.
For more information on Senco DuraSpin DS205-14V, go to http://rbi.ims.ca/4393-532.

ONE BATTERY SIZE FITS ALL

Addressing the duplication and variation of batteries commonly found in portable tools, Ryobi's One+ System provides a common battery for a family of portable power tools. The newest products include a right-angle drill, trimmer, corner finish sander, caulk and adhesive gun, and an in-vehicle charger. The power for these portable tools and the existing line that includes an 18V drill/driver, two-speed hammer drill, three-speed hammer drill, a variety of saws, and a wet/dry vac comes from an 18V, 1,700 mA Ni-CD battery. Pricing for the 18V battery is $24.97. For more information on Ryobi One+ power tools, go to http://rbi.ims.ca/4393-533.