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Power tools: Then and now
Global SourcesUpdated on 2023/12/01
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How did power tools of the past shape present-day tool design?
Oldest power drill. Image source: @FEIN_UK via Twitter
The oldest power tools influenced how today’s tools are designed, that’s why the latest models are easier to use, long-lasting, and more efficient, ergonomic and smarter than their predecessors.
Made by Germany-based C&E Fein, the first electric drill was large and integrated a weak DC electric motor. Per Spark Energy, it is also controlled by an operator who “had to use both hands, grab it by two handles opposite the motor and lean against a chest plate at the back of the drill to help press it into the work surface.”
The tool required a lot of work, though. The problem was addressed by the makers of the next generation who have designed the latest drills to run on high-power motors and through one hand, instead.
One-hand use required a smaller form with a handle and single switch. In 1916, Duncan Black of Black & Decker released a tool based on the C&E Fein power drill, which is the inspiration behind the modern pistol-tool-with-switch design that’s common today.
In 1932 and 1950, Bosch, another well-known tool company at present, also made a mark in power tool history by creating heavy-duty electric hammers, rotary and breaker types, according to ToolsTurf. This breakthrough has shown that hammers and not just drills can be made to run on electricity and work on tough materials.
China-made smart battery. Image Source: GenixGreen
Black & Decker made another significant development in 1961, the first cordless drill. The tool was powered by NiCd batteries. The invention of the cordless drill led to other makers creating their own and portability of tools. Battery-powered cordless tools are now high in supply and still popular in the market to date.
The next innovation in power tools after the cordless trend was the integration of brushless motors and Li-ion batteries in years 2004 and 2005, respectively. Brushless motors allowed makers of cordless tools to release models that work efficiently, smoothly and silently. Li-ion batteries used are lighter, have twice the energy density of NiCd batteries, and not vulnerable to the memory effect, according to WonkeeDonkeeTools. Manufacturers of the present-day are prolonging battery life even more by integrating smart power management systems.
The latest power tools for sourcing can be found at Global Sources. Below are some of the hot products available.
3Ah Li-ion tool battery pack
Company: Dongguan Arun Industrial Co. Ltd
Dongguan Arun’s model LTH-HIT-14.4(A) Li-ion power tool battery pack packs 3Ah and runs on 14.4V. For an MOQ of 1,000 units, each goes for $5.
10, 20, 40, 60W available
Company: Hangzhou Yueshi Electrical Appliance Co. Ltd
Hangzhou Yueshi’s model YS-7008 hot glue gun comes in 10, 20, 40 and 60W versions. Running on 220 to 240V, it emits 6 to 8g of glue per minute. Preheat time is 5 to 8min. Price ranges from $0.3 to $3. MOQ is 3,000 units.
1,800rpm
Company: Zhejiang Refine Wufu Air Tools Co. Ltd
Zhejiang Refine’s model WFX-1500 air shears feature a free speed of 1,800rpm. It consumes 5CFM air and makes smooth and clean cuts through metals. A soft handle grip is optional. Price is $18.70 to 21.20 per set while MOQ is 500 pieces.
Pistol-grip pneumatic hammer
Company: Hangzhou Santiway International Co. Ltd
Hangzhou Santiway offers the UI-7102-0425 model, a 190mm pneumatic hammer with a pistol grip. The lightweight tool has a built-in power regulator and trigger control. It is priced $7 to $17 each for an MOQ of 100 pieces.
Runs on 1,300mAh battery
Company: Ningbo Conxin Machinery & Electric Co. Ltd
The model CXL1 12V cordless drill from Ningbo Conxin is powered by a 1,300mAh battery. It is fitted with a 550 motor. Torque is 25Nm. For 500 units, each goes for $17 to $19.
Power caulking gun
Company: Ally Hardware Co. Ltd
Ally Hardware has a power caulking gun with a 10 ½in 450mL cylinder. It is made of aluminum. For 100 units, each goes for $29 to $32.
Miter saw tile cutter
Company: Zhejiang Shuangyang Group Co. Ltd
From Zhejiang Shuangyang, the model NX9014-1/550 miter saw is also a tile cutter. It is made of aluminium with composite wood board base. The handle is also in aluminum. Maximum cutting height is 120mm. Price is $11.1 to $12.1. MOQ is 1,000 pieces.
Split-type hydraulic crimping plier
Company: Yueqing Kaisen Electric Technology Co. Ltd
Yueqing Kaisen’s FYQ-400 model has a crimping capacity of 70sqmm. It is listed at $2 to $3. MOQ is 100 pieces.
720Nm air impact wrench
Company: Quanzhou Creational Accessories Co. Ltd
Quanzhou Creational’s Air impact wrenches-A1 model has a 720Nm maximum torque and pistol grip. Price is $55 and minimum order is 1,000 pieces.
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