One of the most valuable (but mostly ignored) features in a cordless drill is the torque adjustment ring. Now I know it’s tempting to overlook all the techie-looking controls spattered around the handle of a modern drill. I certainly did when I bought my first Makita cordless drill. After all, how complicated can it be to drive a #8 woodscrew into plywood? Not too complicated, really. But that doesn’t mean features like a torque adjustment ring have no use. You might be surprised just how much this little control can change the way you work with wood.

 Staying in Control

The best way to understand what a torque adjustment ring does is to think of how we use hand-held screwdrivers. We let the of the screwdriver tell us what to do – when to bear down on the screw to prevent stripping the head – and when to back off to avoid driving the screw too deep. However, put an 18-volt power drill in our hands, and we no longer have that kind of subtle control over what’s happening. In a second we can completely strip out the head of a woodscrew, or drive a woodscrew so far into a board that comes out the other side.Enter the adjustable torque clutch! This is a great feature that lets you decide just how much power to unleash on a woodscrew. On most cordless drills, the torque clutch is located just behind the chuck. It’s a twistable ring that starts at 0 and goes up to something like 20 or 25. Zero means full brakes are on – providing a super gentle twist of the bit. At 25 your drill is totally unleashed – giving all the muscle it has to offer. So what does that mean for you?

Using the torque clutch to avoid stripping heads We’ve all had this problem. A stubborn woodscrew won’t go flush to the board. So we bear down and force the screw in. Sometimes that works. Sometimes not. More often we end up stripping the head. Of course the problem has nothing to do with the drill itself. It usually means the pilot hole is too small for the screw. The nice thing about a torque clutch is that it gives us advance warning of this kind of trouble. A noticeable clacking sound tells us the clutch is engaged, and that the drill is holding back it’s muscle to prevent stripping the head.

Using the torque clutch to avoid buried wood screws

Just as much a problem as screws not going in far enough are screws that go too far. Be assured that when you see the head of a screw start to disappear into the face of a board, you’re asking for problems. The adjustable torque clutch can help prevent this. If you can get your pilot holes and screw sizes matched up the way they should be matched, the adjustable torque clutch will do a nice job of knowing exactly when to stop driving the screw.

It’s a trial-and-error process more or less, so the numbers themselves on the ring (0-25) don’t really mean anything. For example, if your project calls for brass woodscrews that can easily get stripped out, start out at zero just to see how far in the drill will take them. Then gradually move up in numbers till you have just right amount of torque to set the screw flush to the face of the board – without going too far in. Once there, you might want to keep a note of where the clutch is set for doing similar projects in the future.

What is three phase power?

For those of you unfamiliar with the topic, three phase electricity is a multiple phase, or polyphase electrical system that is favored in large operations due to its robust efficiency. If you’ve ever seen large power transmission lines on the highway, they are all three phase. The basic principle behind it is that there are three circuit conductors of the same voltage and frequency running at a 120 degree offset to each other. Unlike the standard single phase power, this has one conductor. The three phase motors run more efficiently by delivering three times the power in smaller comparable sized conductors.

Can we get that in English, please?

Certainly, observe the graphs below. In the first graph, notice the blue line that is one single phase. That shows the frequency variation in one certain section of generated current. This is the standard power transmitted through the majority of American households. As you can see, the single phase is a rather wide spread wavelength. Now, imagine the diagrams as representing horizontal springs. As a workload is applied, it gets harder and harder fort he generated current to maintain its shape, and it flattens out under load.

Now, look at the graph on the right that is three phase power. Imagine that as the same analogy used above. That same load applied to the now three horizontal springs is much harder to compress under the same load. In short, three phase uses three offset electrical currents that allows for a more powerful, efficient and refined system.

So what are the benefits?

The benefits of three phase power when considered in comparison to single phase power are obvious. Single phase motors use capacitors and windings to help the motor start and run, while three phase has simply the stator and windings. This makes for a less complex and more robust motor, with fewer things that can break and go wrong. Say you have a Three Phase Radial Arm Saw, due to the higher efficiency, it requires less conductive material to construct, making for a smaller, lighter motor with the same power as its larger single phase cousin.Amperage also plays a key part. For example, a 5HP table saw at 230 volts draws a maximum of 24 amps on single phase. The same saw equipped with a 5HP 230 volt three phase motor draws only 13 amps, almost half the power required for the single phase version. And with certain three phase motors, they may be wired for 440/460 volt three phase for a total of only a 6 amp draw, that’s less than a handheld belt sander.

Three phase power also makes reversing and speed control of three phase motors much easier. The simplicity of three phase motors allows them to be easily reversed up to simply switching two wires inside the connection box. Speed variation is also efficiently done with a variable frequency drive (VFD)

What are the drawbacks?

Although three phase power has its advantages, there is a downside, mostly for us Americans. Three phase power is typically not run in residential areas, making it problematic for the home shop owner, but not completely impossible.

What are my options?

There are a few ways to drum up three phase power. The first and most obvious is to have the power company run it to your house. If you live near an industrial area that has three phase, it can be run from their building to theirs, however this is usually the most expensive option, and by having to purchase the wire hand have the power company do the installation work, cost is rather high.

Kay MA-4 Phasemaster Rotary Type Phase Converter

The most sensible option is a rotary phase converter (RPC). A RPC takes in single phase 230 volt current and puts out 230 volt three phase current. RPCs are usually a bit expensive, but in many cases, far cheaper than having the wire run from the grid. There are also ways to build your own RPC; however, it is not for the faint of heart, as it requires a lot of work and electrical knowledge. Another alternative is to install a VFD, this allows you to run three phase machines off of single phase power, and is practical if you only have a machine or two. The last and least favored alternative is the static phase converter. Static converters take single phase power and split it to run two of the legs. The third leg is then generated by capacitors until the motor is started, and then the capacitor drops off, leaving the motor to run only at two thirds of its rated power. These are the least favorable of the bunch, and certain manufacturers will void your machine warranty if you use one.

So what’s the verdict?

In short, if you’re looking for economical and efficient power supply, three phase is the way to go, especially in industrial applications. But, like all things, consideration and planning is required before you make a move.

Choosing the right drill bit can make all the difference in your project.

A – Hi Paul. For most wood projects that require drilling, preventing blow out is a big concern. Sometimes when drilling holes, blow out can be so bad it ruins the job entirely; no one wants that. Tools-Plus.com recommends trying out a step bit. These bits are specifically designed to offer multiple size drilling holes so a wide range of holes can come from one bit. The step bit also is used for clean drilling and deburring, which in your case may just be the solution. Good luck with your project!

A – Hey Nick. Unfortunately, you are going to need a blade specifically made for laminate cutting, or else you will rip right through the laminate. Most laminate jobs need to have an extremely clean cut, especially since any imperfection in the edge will be noticeable once it is installed. For the best results when cutting laminate, an 80 tooth Triple-Chip Grind (TCG) blade is recommended. With this type of blade, if cut correctly, you can be sure that your laminate will come out smooth every time. Good luck!

]]> http://www.tool-talker.com/did-you-know/more-qa-this-time-on-laminate/feed 1 http://www.tool-talker.com/did-you-know/qa-home-renovation-and-trash http://www.tool-talker.com/did-you-know/qa-home-renovation-and-trash#comments Fri, 18 Sep 2009 21:06:10 +0000 admin http://www.tool-talker.com/?p=406 Q: “I’m a do-it-yourselfer and I’m looking to completely remodel my kitchen. What’s the best way to dispose of the trash and old appliances? Is there anything special I need to know? Thanks. – Tim, CT”

A: Remodeling your kitchen is a huge project, especially on the DIY scale. When you decide to remodel the room completely, there are a few things you need to keep in mind in terms of disposing of your trash, appliances, and other materials. You want to be sure that you’re not harming the environment while you complete your job. Plus, chances are that your normal trash pickup can’t handle the waste.

The most common method of trash disposal on a project is renting a dumpster. This can be a great way to take care of all of your disposal needs – as long as you work with a rental company that can legally and effectively take care of all of your trash. If you plan on tossing appliances, talk to the dumpster rental company before hand to find out their policy.

If you think you need something a bit more fast and efficient, you can also hire a trash hauling company who can come clean up on a need-be basis. This can be expensive, but it’s great when you live in a narrow lot, apartment, or close together neighborhood.

Finally, if you’re tossing appliances, consider recycling them properly first. Contact a local appliance repair shop to discuss the proper disposal methods in your area. Usually, the shop can set you up with a pick-up or with a recycling center that can handle your appliance.

To sum it all up, power cords are not our friend. Tired of tripping and being kept on a leash? Then it’s time to go cordless.

Many years ago cordless power tools were rarely seen on the market. In fact, if they were being sold, they were premium priced. Power cords may have been giving us difficulty in reaching our projects, but the premium prices were making it difficult to purchase the cordless tools.

However, that was the past and this is the future. Cordless power tools have come a long way. From drills to jigsaws to band saws, you can now for a reasonable price get practically any tool without a cord. Frustrations with short cords or tangled extension cords can be forgotten with the many different cordless power tools found at Tools-Plus.com.

Stop stressing already. Go cordless!

1 – Check for dull, broken or bent blades on your different saws. Starting a job with a less than perfect blade may not produce the results you intended for, which can botch a whole job and cost you lots more time and money in the long run. Blades that are not in the right condition can also lead to injury if they break while using your saw or if you force a dull blade. Make sure you are routinely changing/sharpening blades to stay safe.

2 – Clean any dust away from all of your machines. It is inevitable working in a wood shop that you will have wood dust on all of your equipment. When using your machines, make sure all wood dust is cleared off the piece of equipment that you are working with. This prevents any kick back of dust when you power up the machine, which can potentially damage your eyes. This will also make sure that your equipment does not get clogged up with dust, which can cause it to malfunction. A dust collector is recommended on all of your heavy equipment to keep the dust out of the air and your machines.

3 – Oil your tools as much as possible. Check to see if all moving parts are working correctly and in good order. Once you are done cleaning out all the dust and debris, put a few drops of oil in all the gears and moving parts. Some equipment has specific parts that need consistent lubrication to keep it running well.

4 – Examine power cords and check batteries to make sure nothing is leaking or damaged before using.

By performing these simple tips you will be kept safer and your equipment will last longer. Trust us – we’re the tool experts.

The ten features evaluated in the survey included battery charging time; work time per charge; comfort (size, weight, balance); power/torque; tool life/durability; weight; length of warranty; whether the tool was recommended by someone else; inclusion of a worklight; and battery service life. In the end, the results were surprising: two out of the top three features rated in the survey related to battery life.

A similar, unrelated cordless drill study recently completed by an independent global research firm also supported Metabo’s findings and determined that the  importance of battery performance with tool users increased from 2008 to 2009, mostly shown by the increase in the use of lithium ion tools.

So what does this mean for tool fans? Keep on the look out for more tool companies to start innovating their batteries to stay on top of the market.

Back to school season is here and it’s time that you take a moment to review what you know about your tools. No matter what your skill level, it’s always important to know the ins and outs of your tools. Not only is it safer, but it can actually help you complete your next project faster and easier than ever before. You wouldn’t try to drive without knowing how to turn the key, right? The same principle should be applied to your tools.

Over the next few weeks, take the time to “go back to school” and learn the ins and outs of how your tools work, how you can use them safely, and what you can do to make your next project easier. A few moments out of your day to read the manual, watch instructional videos, or to check out tool blogs can help you use your tools smarter while preparing you with the knowledge to buy better tools in the future. You know the basics. Now it’s time to take those skills to the next level by going back to school.

Also, be sure to check out Tool-Talker regularly for more info on tools, tool safety, and other important lessons that can help you grow your knowledge!

Every home needs a tape measure.

If you’re a new homeowner, or just starting out on your own, it’s important to have everything you need to get by. Whether it’s the right furniture to the tools, you need to be sure that you can take care of life’s little issues without hassle and keep on going. As you begin to move into your home, make sure that you take care of at least one of those problems by equipping yourself with three essential tools that every home shouldn’t be without:

Cordless Drill

Whether you’re looking to hang up a new picture or install some shelving in your closets, a cordless power drill is a must have in your home. Check out the selection at Tools-Plus.com to choose the right one for you. Remember, even if you don’t plan on using it a lot, still having on on hand is a great idea, especially for those times when screws come loose, hardware falls off and your furniture needs to be put together.

Level

As you look to arrange your rooms and decorate your walls, remember that a level can help you keep things looking straight. As an essential in any home, levels can help out in just about every room of the house. Be sure you grab one today at Tools-Plus.com.

Tape Measures

These easy to use, easy to store tools can be kept on hand just about anywhere. In a drawer or in a tool box, tape measures are great for measuring dimensions of objects, rooms, windows, and doors so you can advance your next project. Don’t get caught without one! Stop by Tools-Plus.com and get yours.

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