New to the Ingersoll Rand Max family is the 3445MAX ($227, Ohio Power Tool) 4.5” air grinder. The Max family of tools indicates the top of the line in terms of Power & Comfort (power/weight). It looks as though IR is really expanding the Max line to include not only impact wrenches, but also ratchets and now grinders. Checkout the video below for full stats on the new 3445MAX.
The STAFDA trade show is traditionally where manufacturers come together and solicit current distributors to carry their products thus increasing their overall reach. This show does not have as many product launches as the larger and more end user focused show like the www.BuildersShow.com or www.WorldofConcrete.com but there were some cool new products that were launched or at least that were available to touch and feel for the first time. Many of the larger vendors also had private meetings to unveil future plans and products however those products weren’t ready to launch.
Some of the highlights (more to come):
The Senco Fusion was one of the bigger product launches of the show. They didn’t have any marketing material ready and currently nothing on their website but they did have several working models of the 15 gauge and 18 gauge finishing nailers which I got to try out. These should be available sometime in the first quarter 2010 with other finishers on the way shortly afterwards. The framing nailer they said was in the works but we would not see it anytime soon.
The Milwaukee 2790-20 JobSite Radio for M12, M18, V18, V28 & NiCds was also at the show along with all the new Milwaukee Test & Measure tools. I have probably already had too many posts on these items already but it was nice to get chance to see them in action and answer a few questions like how can the radio take every kind of battery? Answer 3 different battery slots so probably not going to see any other universal tools coming.
Many of you took advantage of the Ingersoll Rand air tool stimulus plan rebate program that ran back in April, well guess what we are doing it again from Now until December 31st. The deal applies to many of the most popular Ingersoll Rand Air Tools. Get up to 15% off current deals and other promotions. Check out the mail-in rebate for full details and the complete list of tools that apply. If you have any questions, the pros at Ohio Power Tool (800-242-4424) are happy to help, also you can email any questions to sales@ohiopowertool.com for a quick answer.
All month long you can get great deals and Free Shipping on Ingersoll Rand and Chicago Pneumatic power tools from Ohio Power Tool. Discounts and special sale pricing have already been applied to many of the most popular IR & CP tools however to take advantage of FREE SHIPPING simple use coupon code: SEPTEMBER in the checkout. If you don’t want to mess with the coupon code or have any questions at all please feel free to call the pros at Ohio Power Tool directly 800-242-4424.
Recently Campbell Hausfeld introduced a new line of air nailers (www.chnailers.com) as well as a new line of air compressors (www.chcompressors.com) primarily aimed at the DIY market. I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to test out the 15 gauge Finish Nailer CHN706000 which will retail for around $139 at your local home center.
Out of the Box
Well I was not terribly impressed by the packaging for this tool, there is a pikaboo window which is probably unnecessary and the inside was a thin plastic shell with twist ties holding the tool in place. It reminded me of opening a GI Joe toy when I was little which was kind of cool from a nostalgia point of view but didn’t give me super high hopes for the tool. Also the nailer requires 2 AAA batteries and **batteries not included, again another flash back to childhood but in this trip there was no childhood glee. Not that it's important, if the lower packaging costs are what keep the price down super, put it in a plain brown box I wouldn't care. Eventually I found some batteries and we were good to go.
New Technology
All the new CH nailers have some new/adapted technology incorporated into them. The CHN70600 finish nailer has the most added technology of the new nailers including laser pointer, low nail warnings and even a stud finder. This seemed like a lot of technology, before I ever got my hands on it and to be honest I’m still not convinced it is necessary. The laser pointer works great but when you line the nailer up it’s only about an inch away from the work surface. It’s right in the middle of the tiny window in the shoe and you can even push the nose against the wood before pulling the trigger to get it super lined up without the laser. The low nail warning also works fine but you can see the cartridge with the nails going down. The nailer also has Anti-Dry Fire feature which locks up when you are almost out of nails which is a much better feature and seems like it would neglect the need for the warning lights. Finally the stud finder, which is hanging on by a thin piece of plastic below the no-mar tip, was tested. At first I didn’t think it even worked and then read the directions to figure out how to calibrate it. Once calibrated the stud finder worked pretty accurately although since it hangs it wasn’t totally flat against the wall so I found myself pushing the stud finder plate against the wall with my free hand which made this job a two handed operation. Also I’m left handed and the stud finder trigger is set for right handers. I am still wondering about the speaker on the left side of the tool which beeps when it finds a stud. With sawdust, drywall and everything else on a jobsite is that speaker going to hold up?
Low Tech Improvements
If all the electronics weren’t enough there are some other technological improvements that don’t involve laser beams. There is a small level on the back on the nailer, and when I say small I mean tiny. I’m not really sure how necessary a level is on a finish nailer anyway but it is not easy to read. It was fine outdoors but inside it became much harder to read and typically you will be inside with a finish nailer. A low tech feature which I thought was a real good idea was the swivel air hose connector which seems obvious to put on a tool like this as it is more comfortable, convenient and allows the hose to hang in a more natural fashion which I think would result in less malfunctions with the air inlet in general.
Most Important – How Does It Work as a Nailer
Like when you get a new iPhone with all the bells and whistles where you can stream video from NASA astronauts but can’t make a phone call across the street. I think the most important question to answer is how does the Finish Nailer work as a Finish Nailer? Overall I have to say I was very impressed with the how the tool works for what it is intended, and really isn’t that most important. The tool feels well constructed, the nail depth adjuster helps set the proper nail depth and loading the nails was very easy. I did find at 70 psi (minimum) I wasn’t getting the nail to get all the way through the wood and drywall every time however at 90 psi it worked beautifully every time. The tool can operate in “sequential mode” or “bump mode” which allows you to hold down the trigger and nails to fire when the nose is compressed. I didn’t have any nail jams while using the tool but clearing a jam seemed pretty strait forward to fix with the easy to open latch on top of the tool that exposes where you would have a jam.
Overall
I think overall this is a real nice nail gun for the price. The swivel plug, adjustable exhaust, ADC nail depth adjuster and Anti-Dry Fire are all real nice features for any nailer. I personally don’t think some of the electronic features were necessary and could see running out of batteries, never replacing them and still think it’s a good tool. I get that a lot of the added electronic features on the tool give a less experienced user more confidence in what they are doing. The lasers and stud finders will sell more tools and probably will hold up fine to occasional use by a DIYer over the next several years. I will say I would look at these features completely different if this tool was going into stores like Ohio Power Tool to sell to professionals than I do knowing the tool is made for the DIY shoppers at the Depot Center. Can I see these features ever making it onto pro tools, nope.
The tool has been donated to the www.ColumbusIdeaFoundry.com (thank you Campbell Hausfeld) where it has already begun taking abuse and will certainly get used for everything it was never intended. I will update down the road several months on the long term performance of this tool, stay tuned.
A new program available from Ohio Power Tool on select Ingersoll Rand Air Compressors promises to ship them within 48 business hours. This includes configuration for different electrical voltages. In addition these select Compressors, noted on the website with “Quick Ship” in the title, will also include a free start-up kit and an Ingersoll Rand Impactool of your choice. The Ingersoll Rand start up kits should always be purchased with the units as the purchase alone takes your 1 year warranty to a 2 year warranty on the units. The free Impactool options are different for each compressor but can include popular models like the 2115TiMAX, 2135TiMAX, 261, among others.
The 6 models of compressors, 4 electric & 2 gas, included in the Quick Ship promotion are: 2340L5, 2475n7.5, 2475N7.5-FP, 2545E10V-FP, Kohler 2475F12.5G & Honda 2475F13GH. As always with any Air Compressors from Ohio Power Tool there is free shipping on the compressor units. It is highly recommended that you talk to an expert about selecting and configuring any air compressor. Ohio Power Tool has several experts on hand able to help you make the right decision. Feel free to contact them with any questions by email sales@ohiopowertool.com or phone 800-242-4424.
Check out the CHcompressors micro-site for the new Campbell Hausfeld compressors, looks like a great option for the garage and around the house. Some very cool features including on-board tool storage and no tilt rolling for the larger model. The smaller unit is perfect for wall mounting out of the way and also works with the take-away 8 gallon unit perfect for small jobs such as inflating car tires. Both units feature nice large knobs and gauges. Read the full Press Release information below.
Continue reading "Campbell Hausfeld Introduces New Portable Compressors" »
I recently had the pleasure to visit Eric at his home and see where some of the Milwaukee Tools from Ohio Power Tool end up. By day a mild-mannered CPA, after hour a man of many talents equipped with the latest Heavy Duty gear. Some of his Milwaukee tools include: Right Angle Drill, Super Sawzall, Jig Saw, 7-1/4” Circular Saw, ½” Drill, Orbital Sander, M12 Drill/Driver, V28 Hammer Drill, 2-1/4” Router Kit, Radio, M12 M-Spector, M12 Hackzall, M18 Compact Drill, M18 Impact Driver, most of the accessory kits and currently waiting on some of the new 9” Diamond Grit Sawzall Blades. While his setup was cleaned up for the visit, he does keep all the tool kits and accessory kits on the wall as you see here. Eric said it keeps everything out of the way, maximizing space and when he needs a couple tools for a project everything is right at his fingers to grab and go. He has had many tools over the years but fell in love with the Milwaukee 7-1/4” circular saw he received as a gift several years ago, really impressed with how well it stood up he bought another Milwaukee and another. Now he doesn’t even consider buying another brand if Milwaukee makes a similar tool.
Some of his recent projects include finishing the basement I was in, a real nice job by the way, adding a deck out back, finishing the garage and currently working on an IPE Wood deck at his father’s house. He is also a bit of a mechanic and did some nice work on a 1991 Mustang 5.0 which he sold earlier this year. Another thing that really impressed me was his Ingersoll Rand compressor set up which can be used in the basement next to the workbench but he also ran a line and hookup in the garage, it is a nice system, I’m jealous.
Thanks again Eric, for letting me come over and checkout the digs. For all your Milwaukee Tool needs visit www.OhioPowerTool.com. Currently there are some amazing deals for Free Tools with the M12 & M18 lines but they end June 30th so get your orders in this weekend!
For the past several days I had the opportunity to visit Bosch US headquarters and checkout some of the upcoming new products. It was really interesting to learn more about the company and the great lengths they go through to ensure the highest quality products. Many others attended the event as well so it was also a good opportunity to chat with some of the other power tool bloggers from Toolsnob, Toolmonger, Toologics as well as really great people from various magazines and other media outlets.
One of the big product launches is the new line of Bosch Pneumatic Tools named Bosch Full Force. I got a chance to use these tools along with the competition and I was really impressed with the performance, smaller size and lighter weight. They also incorporated several new features including the strike plate on the back which is commonly used as a hammer to align beams. Also the nail cartridge is extremely easy to remove without any additional tools so clearing jams takes seconds. In development for several years these tools may have missed the high times of home building but with the Bosch long term strategy focus they are very optimistic they will own the market 3,5,10 years down the road. As new products do take some time to prove themselves once they are on the market it may actually work out to their advantage launching into a slower building cycle. By the time home building picks up again they will have a proven track record and be able to really have some strong sales. The Bosch units are compatible with any other brand of nails and don't plan on launching their own nails in the near future.
Units will be available on OhioPowerTool.com shortly with the framing nailers and several compressors available this month. The roofing, brad, narrow crown and finishing nailers will be available over the next few months. In total there will be 7 nailers and 5 compressors by the end of summer. Checkout the videos below for more details! Stay tuned, more new Bosch products coming next week on Coptool.
Recently the CP pull behind trailer air compressors have received an upgrade. A well known, well respected brand in the industry for years there are now 4 models which complete the line. The new models are the CPS 90, CPS 185, CPS 375 & CPS 750. As you might have already assumed the numbers indicate air delivered in Cubic Feet per Minute (CFM) and even the smallest unit at 90 CFM can power multiple tools at once. The CPS portable compressor series are all built for reliability, easy maintenance and flexibility in mind. Each unit features easy to operate curbside controls and noise reducing enclosures.
Each of the CPS pull behind compressors allow you to configure different options such as hose reels, after coolers, block heaters, tool boxes and much more. On OhioPowerTool.com the available options with pricing will be displayed with each unit.
Chicago Pneumatic is also one of the world leaders in manufacturing a wide range of heavy duty construction equipment designed to run off these compressors including demolition breakers, concrete saws, chipping hammers & rock drills. If you have any questions about the portable trailer compressors, construction tools, hoses, connectors or anything else please give Ohio Power Tool a call at 800-242-4424 or email sales@ohiopowertool.com.
Ingersoll Rand is one of the most popular brands of choice when it comes to Air Impact Wrenches. The IR tools are built to stand up to professional daily duty and if you depend on these tools everyday I would think it might be hard to look past the Ingersoll Rand tools for a second rate product off the back of a truck. Ohio Power Tool is making the decision easy to buy the best by offering extremely low prices in addition to giving a full socket set away with some of the most popular IR impact tools.
1” Impact 285B-6 – $449 - Free Socket Set: SK8C5T ($76)
¾” Impact 2141 – $419 - Free Socket Set: SK6H8 ($61)
½” Impact 2135TiMax - $249 – Free Socket Set: SK4H13 ($30)
3/8” Impact 2115TiMax - $219 – Free Socket Set: SK3H8 ($14)
19.2V IQv – ½” Impact W360-LSP - $359 – Free Socket Set: SK4H13 ($30)
14.4V IQv – 3/8” Impact IQV144K – 398 – Free Socket Set: SK3H8 ($14)
Air tool systems have some significant advantages and disadvantages in comparison to electric tools. The main advantage of air tools is there is only 1 motor which is on the compressor where as with electric tools each tool has its own engine. What this means is the individual air tools last longer, are more durable, cost less, weigh less, have smaller size and can provide more torque. The disadvantage is they require a compressor to operate which can be very large in size and inconvenient to move around. Once you have decided to commit to buying an air compressor you need to pick the right one that will work for you.
There are many factors in selecting the right air compressor including horse power, tank size, pounds per square inch (PSI), cubic feet per minute (CFM), noise, portability and power source. In addition to the stats of the air compressor you also need to make sure you are buying a quality product. A good compressor should last you years and years so make sure you can get a quality machine from a known manufacturer and that it will be easy to find maintenance supplies and replacement parts.
Horse Power is typically the first consideration when selecting a compressor but it is only part of the whole equation. In electric compressors it’s important to also look at voltage and amp ratings to see how much power the unit is truly able to produce. For instance, a 3 hp Ingersoll Rand compressor using 230 volts can probably out perform many import 5 hp compressors using standard 110 volt. In another case you are may be comparing two models of portable compressors each rated 2 hp 110 volt but if you look at the amp rating one may be 12 amp while the other is 15 amp.
Pounds per Square Inch (PSI) is also very important but again don’t over look the basics here. You only need enough PSI to power the tools you operate or plan to operate. If all your tools are 90 PSI a 110 or 135 PSI compressor is more than enough power and you don't need to purchase a 175 or 200 PSI compressor.
Cubic Feet per Minute (CFM) perhaps is the most telling single stat for compressors as this measures how much air is flowing in a minute. CFM is used interchangeably with the terms Actual Cubic Feet per Minute (ACFM) or Inlet Cubic Feet per Minute (ICFM). Check your tool owner's manual it should clearly provide your CPM for the tool. It is important to remember air pressure can change based on environmental variables such as temperature.
Tank Size is also an important factor however it is almost counter intuitive as a larger tank is actually more beneficial when using a smaller motor. The larger tank is used to store air so that the tool can actually use more air than the motor is able to produce for short periods. When a more powerful motor is used there is less need to store compressed air so the tank can actually be smaller in size. You would think the larger machines would need equally larger tank but that just is not the case.
Portability can be another big factor and often a disadvantage for air systems. The best environment for an air system is a shop or garage where there is room to permanently place a unit in a controlled environment. If you need a portable unit there are some options that do work well. A smaller electric unit such as the Ingersoll Rand DD2T2 works well with portable tools such as air nailers which typically have lower CFM. For a heavier user there are the air sled designs good for up to 14 CFM. For real power on the move the best solution is a truck mounted gas compressor which is capable of 25 CFM.
Hopefully this post will help you select the right air compressor for your needs. Ohio Power Tool carries a wide range of compressors from Ingersoll Rand and Chicago Pneumatic. Ohio Power Tool also offers free shipping on all compressors anywhere in the continental United States. If you have more specific questions about air compressors or air tools in general feel free to call the experts at 800-242-4424.
There are advantages and disadvantages for each type of breaking tool with a large variety of tools in each category. We wanted to do an overview of the main differences between these types of systems as well as highlight a few recommended products in each category.
Pneumatic Breakers are very common among commercial demolition. Common Pneumatic breaker sizes are 35 lb, 60 lb and 90 lb. We recommend Chicago Pneumatic for the air breakers themselves.
PROS: These air tools are lightweight and relatively inexpensive for the tools themselves. Tools can last a long time and are fairly easy to repair.
CONS: Pneumatic Breakers require a fairly large air compressor power source. They are loud to operate, inoperable at low temperatures and complete system can be pricy. Air tools also require a fair amount of up keep due to need to be oiled and fear of moisture buildup in the lines.
Power Source: The recommended compressor would be a Chicago Pneumatic screw compressor or Ingersoll Rand Gas Compressor if you are going to be working away from an electric power source. Breakers require much larger compressors than that portable one you use to power your nail gun. You will need a large tank and serious power. The screw compressors are recommended because they provide more continuous air flow, last longer, run quieter and are more compact.
Hydraulic Breakers work similar to the pneumatic systems where there is a power source completely separate from the operating tool. Our recommendation for a Portable Hydraulic System would defiantly be the Atlas Copco Power Pack (picture shown above) with the associated tools.
PROS: Hydraulic tools provide the most power and torque as the fluid can not compress like air, the tools will not freeze at low temperatures, hydraulic tools can work underwater, life span of the tool is very long, low maintenance as the parts are continuously lubricated and the tools are quieter than other options.
CONS: The main problem with the hydraulic system is the initial costs are more than other options and if the line ever breaks you have a big mess.
Power Source: The Atlas Copco Power Pack is fairly compact with wheels and handle for easy maneuverability. It can easily be lifted into a truck bed and is far more portable than an air compressor with comparable output. The Atlas Copco sytem is powered by a Honda 13 hp gas engine and works with a wide range of tools which can all work simultaneously off one unit.
Electric Breakers are probably the easiest out of the box breakers to use. Simply plug into an electrical outlet and the tool is ready to use. These are the most common for rental to take out the back patio or other one time jobs. Our Recommendations would be for the Bosch Breakers, specifically the Bosch Brute 11304 or new lighter Bosch 11335K (shown above).
PROS: Easy to use, no expensive external power source required, can use in cold temperatures, quieter to operate than other options, less expensive for complete system.
CONS: Not as powerful as pneumatic or hydraulic tools, lower power/weight, need to be near source of electrical power, shorter life of tool, more costly repairs and should not be operated around water.
Power Source: The most versatile as it can work with any electric power source with a plug. For mobile use they work with any heavy duty jobsite generator such as the Milwaukee Generators powered by Honda Engines, available in 4300, 5000, 6000 & 7000 watts.
Gas Breakers (self contained) are the only completely independent breakers that don’t have a cord or hose which could easily be cut or broken. Chicago Pneumatic makes the Red Hawk Gas Powered Breaker, our recommendation for gas breaker.
PROS: Completely self contained, quick easy set up, no hoses or electric cords to be damaged and more versatile single unit.
CONS: Noisier, poisonous exhaust fumes, heavy unit, continuous maintenance, costly repairs, lowest power/weight ratio.
Power Source: Self contained gas engine makes this ideal for small jobs and remote locations.
Overall our recommendation for any serious demolition jobs done by hand is for the Power Pack from Atlas Copco. In addition to the several options of breakers this unit works with available core drills, large saws and many other tools. Hydraulic power is the most powerful, can be used underwater or in the cold and the Power Pack unit is portable enough for almost all jobs.
Choosing a stationary air compressor for your facility can be a difficult decision. Some common questions you will need to answer are: Where will the compressor be located? How much room is required? What is the total budget? How much maintenance is required? How much air is used throughout the day? How much does that air requirement fluctuate? How much pressure or PSI is required? How much horsepower is needed? What are the electrical requirements? Are there any noise restrictions?
The basic things to look at when comparing compressors are:
Horsepower – This is directly proportional to Cubic Feet per Minute CFM.
CFM - Cubic Feet Per Minute
PSI – Pounds per Square Inch must not exceed the requirements of pneumatic tools and equipment.
Tank Size – Size of the air reservoir is important for continuous operation and also determines the size of the overall compressor.
Dryers & After Coolers – Air treatment is important for removing moisture from compressors under heavy use.
Electrical Requirements – It is important to make sure your facility can handle the electrical requirements of the selected Compressor.
When comparing reciprocal air compressors with rotary screw compressors you will see many advantages to choosing the screw compressor. They are more compact, operate quietly, built for continuous operation and typically see less maintenance. The down side is the initial costs are higher. When you compare a 5 HP reciprocating air compressor at $1807 with a 5 HP rotary screw compressor at $3688 do the advantages out weight the initial cost?
Reciprocation Air Compressors
Ingersoll Rand 2475N5 - 5 HP – 175 PSI – 16.8 CFM - $1807 – With Air Cooler $2337
Ingersoll Rand 2545E10V – 10 HP – 175 PSI – 35 CFM - $2410 – With Air Cooler $3519
Ingersoll Rand 7100E15V – 15 HP – 175 PSI – 50 CFM - $3217 – With Air Cooler $4792
Rotary Screw Air Compressor
Chicago Pneumatic QRS5HP – 5 HP – 155 PSI – 16.6 CFM - $3688 With Dryer $4824
Chicago Pneumatic QRS10HP – 10 HP – 155 PSI – 30 CFM - $5732 With Dryer $7170
Chicago Pneumatic QRS15HP – 15 HP – 155 PSI – 45 CFM - $6684 With Dryer $8352
Each application is different, if you have any questions it is best to call or email one of our trained professionals and we would be happy to answer any questions you may have. View more industrial air compressors and pneumatic tools at Ohio Power Tool.
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