Masonry Magazine February 2007 Page. 35
MAVS
Less vibration, ramped up power and comfy grips define the next generation of tools.
Hammer Power Without the Side Effects
WHEN WORKERS USE a powerful rotary hammer, they typically feel the power vibrating their hands and arms. In fact, most users don't distinguish between power and vibration, so they accept vibration as part of the job. Generally speaking, they're not asking for anti-vibration technology on tools and often don't see it as a necessity. However, new anti-vibration technology could soon change that. Once contractors and workers experience reduced vibration, they're quickly sold on it.
"After five minutes, the guys are giddy. They're saying, "This is awesome. I just don't feel the tool working," said Eric Bernstein, group product manager for hammers for DeWalt in Baltimore. "For a person who makes a living in construction), they say, 'I can go home and my arm is not shaking. You can change that guy's [quality of life]."
Reducing the vibration leads to increased productivity, Bernstein continued. "Comfort is critical," he said. "The more comfortable a tool is, the more the person will use it and the more productive the person will be."
In November 2006, DeWalt launched three new cordless SDS (slotted drive shaft) rotary hammers (DC212KA, DC223KA and DC233KL) that feature an Active
DeWalt DC223KA
The Voice of the Masonry Industry
Milwaukee Rotary Hammer 5363
February 2007
Masonry 29