Masonry Magazine December 1995 Page. 23
Power Tool Care
Power tool abuse typically are not covered. Therefore, be mindful of the types of abuse that can damage a tool and use preventative measures to extend a power tool's life span.
One common power tool enemy is the dust created by a tool when it's in use. Foreign particles such as concrete and a drywall dust, sawdust, wood fragments and metal chips are some of the materials that can enter into and harm power tools.
It is essential to clean power tools regularly. Get in the habit of blowing out your tools with an air hose after each use. This will clean off excess dust before it settles inside the tool. This basic and easy procedure can play a major role in extending the life of a tool.
Periodically check the wear of brushes in the tool and replace them according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Also, many tools require re-lubrication when changing the brushes. The tool's performance and operation will be adversely affected if the brushes do not make complete contact with the armature.
Your company should establish a preventative maintenance program to ensure proper power tool care. This is best accomplished by bringing the tools to the manufacturer's authorized service center every six to twelve months, depending on how often the tools are used.
In addition to cleaning, service centers can perform tune-ups, re-lubrication and other maintenance procedures. These services are not costly and the small investment can help prevent major, expensive problems in the long-term.
Proper Use Of Power Tools
While the majority of a technician's tools are used daily, certain power tools may sit idle for days or even weeks. Inactive tools can develop excess dust that can cause motor problems. It's best to store the tools in a dustless area or protective cases.
Proper storage is another important guideline to follow to enhance power tool life. Another common mistake is placing power tools in the back of work vehicles, unprotected from the weather. This habit almost guarantees future problems.
If left unprotected, power tools can rust both internally and externally. While it's easy to see exterior rust, internal rust remains hidden and ultimately will cause the tool to malfunction.
APPENDIX A
| Ampere Rating (on nameplate) | 0-2.0 | 2.1-3.4 | 3.5-5.0 | 5.1-7.0 | 7.1-12.0 | 12.1-16.0 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cord length (in feet) | | | | | | |
| 25 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 16 | 14 |
| 50 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 16 | 14 | 12 |
| 75 | 18 | 18 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 10 |
| 100 | 18 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 10 | |
| 150 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 12 | | |
| 200 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 10 | | |
| 300 | 14 | 12 | 10 | | | |
| 400 | 12 | 10 | | | | |
| 500 | 12 | | | | | |
| 600 | 10 | | | | | |
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