Jonathan Peters, Product Manager at HiKOKI Power Tools, explains how the right tools can turn tough jobs into manageable tasks.
Plumbing and heating installers often dive into tough, messy jobs that demand sturdy, reliable power tools. Whether it’s slicing through rigid pipes, demolishing old bathrooms or chipping away at concrete, the jobsite can be a gritty scene filled with dirt and debris. That’s where heavy-duty power tools come in, offering the muscle and durability needed to get the job done efficiently and safely.
One of the most significant advancements in the power tool industry has been the widespread adoption of cordless technology. Battery powered tools provide unparalleled mobility, freeing plumbers from the constraints of power cords and allowing them to navigate expansive job sites or complex environments like multi-storey buildings with ease.
Extended life
Thanks to innovations in battery technology, particularly with Lithium-ion batteries, cordless tools now offer extended life and immense power that can compete with their corded counterparts. The Multi Volt battery packs from HiKOKI, for example, have been designed to be light and compact and the smart connection technology of the battery pack enables it to identify whether it is being used in an 18V or a 36V device and adjust the voltage accordingly.
Power tool innovation isn’t just about making jobs faster; it’s also making them safer and more comfortable. For plumbers who have to contort themselves into tight spaces or have to hold awkward positions, the latest tools come designed to ease that strain. Manufacturers are making their tools lighter, better balanced and equipped with features like anti-vibration systems to keep things smooth and less taxing on your body.
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Stay safe
Safety-wise, features like Automatic Shut-Off take care of the tool for you, powering it down if it’s accidentally left on or if things start to heat up too much – great for avoiding accidents. Then there’s Reactive Force Control (RFC), which shuts the tool down if it’s pushing too hard against a jam, preventing kickback and keeping you safe. And with Overload Protection, you don’t have to worry about pushing your tools too far; they’ll shut down before overheating or damaging the motor.
Transfer window
With most buildings made of concrete or brick, a good rotary hammer drill or SDS rotary hammer drill is essential. With their enormous power, rotary hammers excel in drilling and chiselling through hard materials like concrete and brick thanks to their powerful hammering mechanism. An SDS hammer drill use bits that slide into the chuck without needing to be tightened with a key allowing for more efficient power transfer from the tool to the bit.
These tools are great when you need to punch large holes through masonry. HiKOKI’s DH3640DA 36V Brushless MultiVolt SDS-Max Cordless Rotary Hammer Drill is super speedy, delivering 9.2 joules of impact energy. It’s also lightweight, weighing in at just 6.1kg. Designed with User Vibration Protection (UVP) and a Low Vibration Handle (LVH), it ensures maximum comfort and grip. Safety features include Reactive Force Control and a trigger lock for effortless continuous operation.
All rounder
Multi-tools are another must have. So there’s no need to lug loads of tools to each job, multi-tools can cut, sand and scrape. This versatility is crucial for plumbers who might need to cut pipes, sand rough edges, scrape away old sealant or grouting or cut through flooring all in one job.
HiKOKI’s cordless CV18DBL Multi Tool has an auto mode that reduces noise and vibration under no-load operation, which softens the work, a built-in LED light so you can see exactly what you’re doing and a compact body so they remain easy to use even in tight spaces. The blade can also be swapped out quickly and easily without the need for any tools, making it convenient and time-efficient for users.
A combi drill is another versatile must-have for any plumber, combining drilling, hammering and driving functionalities into one compact tool. Ideal for drilling into wood, metal and even tough concrete, it’s perfect for installing fixtures and assembling pipe sections.
HiKOKI’s DV18DC 18V Brushless Combi Drill/Driver features an enhanced airflow design and a heat sink to keep electronics cool. RFC technology and a gyro sensor prevent overburdening on the tool by stopping the motor, reducing twisting and potential damage. It also has a high torque rating of 140Nm translating to a powerful performance, enabling it to handle a wide range of tasks and tough materials with ease.
