Woodworking Machinery Tools - Plastic Processing Machinery

Why you should Buy a Platform Bed?

2009-08-17T19:41:00.002-07:00

Platform beds may seem like a new invention, they are actually a new spin on an old conception. The very first platform bed was considered to be a loft bed. Loft beds are lifted off the ground by four poles on each corner and allow space underneath for a desk, couch, or even another bed. As time progressed, the loft bed eventually was lowered, and the term "platform beds" was coined.

What separates platform beds from normal beds is the fact that you do not need a box spring. These beds have slats across their base to support a mattress - with or without a box spring. Therefore, they are normally cheaper than other beds because you're not required to purchase a separate box spring.

The most popular construction materials is wood and metal. Some beds will combine the two materials for a unique look, and manufacturers are beginning to pump out leather platform beds for a luxurious high end look.

Many styles do not have a footboard, or even a headboard, to contribute to their minimal look. However, you can find platform beds out there with head and footboards if you like a defined sleeping space.

There are a few different features you can get . One of them is a canopy - perfect if you want to frame off your sleeping space with curtains or sheer drapes. You can also find them with drawers built into its base for extra storage which is very popular for apartment dwellers. For a gorgeous modern or Japanese look, you can find a bed frame that wraps around your mattress so they're both on the same level.

You can fine one in every kind of colour, finish, and stain, so it all depends on what kind of look you're going for in your bedroom when selecting your bed. Solid black platform beds are on the rise, because they match with every colour imaginable and their dark shade makes them the focal point of a room.

If you want a natural, rustic look in your bedroom, opt for an unfinished wooden model. Go bold with a bright, shiny red or a purple microfiber-upholstered frame. And if you want a clean, crisp look in your bedroom, a sheer white design is your answer.

It is obvious that the platform bed is so versatile - it comes in a variety of materials, styles, and colours, which is why it is so popular in today's society.

Hot Water Pressure Cleaner

2009-02-26T04:36:00.000-08:00

Hot Water Pressure Cleaner: Powered by a Honda 13 horse power gas engine. Heats water to 180 degrees, puts out 3500 (p.s.i.), can also be used for cold water use. Has electric key start, with a 12 volt battery system that charges the battery. This system is self contained and needs no electric (plug-in) to run it. Burner runs on #2 fuel and or diesel fuel. Honda engine runs on gasoline. This is a heavy duty comercial machine and is no toy. Comes with 50ft. of pressure hose, spray gun and wand, 3 tips .

Details of this tool

Power Tools For The Home - Electric and Cordless Drills

2008-09-10T18:35:00.000-07:00

By Chuck Lunsford

Arguably one of the most important inventions in modern times, the portable drill has proven to be one of, if not the, most important and useful tool today. In this article I'll offer a few tips on how to choose the right power or cordless drill for your needs.

Choosing A Drill:

Because of its versatility, the electric or battery powered drill is a wise choice for the homeowners first portable power tool. It can drill metal, wood, plastic, concrete, and perform many other operations as well.

The size of the drill is determined by the largest drill shank (the shank is the part of a drill bit grasped by the chuck of a drill) its chuck will accept, which may be ¼, 3/8, ½, or ¾ inch. The ¼ inch size is probably the handiest for the average job around the home or workshop. A drills power varies with size and make but typically ranges from 1/5 hp for the ¼ inch models to as much as 1 ½ hp for the ¾ inch models. There are some heavy-duty hand held models with higher HP ratings, but for everyday use they would be overkill. Speed usually decreases with size (though turning power increases), ranging from about 2000 r.p.m. for the ¼ inch size to around 1200 r.p.m. for 3/8 inch and 600 r.p.m. for ½ inch drills. The larger ¾ inch drills (more commonly used for professional and industrial work) are commonly in the 250-475 r.p.m. range. The slower speeds of the larger drills provide greater turning power (torque) necessary for driving large diameter bits and hole saws. Today there are models that perform in all r.p.m. ranges.

The high speed of the ¼ inch drills equips them no only to drill holes up to ¼ inch in diameter in metal and ½ inch in wood, but also for sanding. Variable speed control is available on most models these days as well as the feature to reverse the drills direction. The speed control lets you select the best drilling speed. Reverse is useful in backing out wood bits from deep holes.

Heavy duty drills of any given size vary more widely in price than do the light-duty models because of differences in bearings, wiring, and other features. For normal home use, heavy-duty features are not usually needed.

Most power drills are equipped with 3-wire grounding cords to protect the user from shock in case of internal electrical damage. Although becoming rare, if you buy a drill with a 2-prong plug, be sure the tool is a type in which the outer shell and chuck are completely insulated from the wiring. Such drill are commonly termed double-insulated drills.

Cordless drills come equipped as kit complete with one or two rechargeable batteries, battery charger, as well as a polyethylene plastic carrying case. The rechargeable batteries manufactured today are a far cry from the earlier attempts in power, longevity, and durability. 12 volt, 14.4 volt, 18 volt, and 24 volt batteries are now the ordinary instead of the exception.

Whatever drill you buy, check the guarantee as well as the availability of parts. Your best bet is to opt for the quality of a reputable manufacturer. Keep in mind that this is a substantial purchase of a toll you can reasonably expect to be in action years from now. Do your homework; pick the right tools for your needs, take proper care of it, and it will take care of you for years to come.

Chuck Lunsford is the Internet Manager for Mytoolplace.com. He offers advice on how to select and use the right power drills for the job. Visit our website and learn more about saving money on brand name cordless drills.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chuck_Lunsford

How To Drill A Hole - Do It Yourself Guide

2008-05-10T02:12:00.000-07:00

By Amit Kheterpal
Drilling sounds easy and simple and it is for sure if you get the basics right. However, if you go wrong then this thing can go horribly wrong and you can get frustrated easily. As an example if you use the basic steel bit to drill a hole in the concrete, it will never work. Instead you will have damaged the bit and may also endanger yourself by applying the force wrongfully.

The most basic of things that you require to drill a hole are drill to turn the drill bits, a pencil to mark the area or a center punch and a hammer depending if you are working on wood or metal.

The first place to start is the place where you need to drill the hole.If the hole is to be drilled in wood then you would need the pencil to mark the area where you would drill the hole. If you are working with metals you would need to exactly position the center punch there and strike it with hammer to mark the area where the hole will be drilled as well as try it will actually make a small groove so that the drill bit can be accurately placed.

If you are drilling large holes then you need to do things, firstly mark the area with a center punch and make a little marking. This will make sure that drill bit does not drift away once you first start drilling the hole. Drill a pilot hole into the material with a drill bit. Once the pilot hole is done then you can start drilling a bigger hole with a long drill bit.

The word of caution for those who are new to the process that you should always have water as a lubricant because of the extensive heat some kind of drilling can generate and also it provides lubrication. The other important thing to note is that this helps removing the burrs which come out of the drilling process.

Make sure that you wear safety glasses and gloves before you start drilling the hole. Remember safety is important.

Amit comes from an engineering background and writes about diamond drill bit advantages in the industry. He has a website which is dedicated to the diamond drill bit tools

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Amit_Kheterpal

Drill Bit Sets - Do It Yourself Guide

2008-05-10T02:11:00.000-07:00

By Amit Kheterpal
A power drill is what you will need for your small work around the house. These power drills can help bore the drill a hole into almost any material within the home say wood or glass or even special stained glass. What you need is the perfect drill bit set for your needs.

A drill bit set containing steel, spiral bits is not very expensive and is almost enough for drilling needs at home. However, they cannot drill into concrete or metal as they require special drill bits. These drill bit sets have drill bits ranging from size eight millimeters to thirty two millimeters. Now if you need to have some concrete or masonry work done then you need the tungsten carbide drill sets as they have the required strength to drill holes through concrete. Mind you, they may be expensive than the regular steel bits.

Another advantage of a power drill is that they can work as screw drivers if you buy special hardened steel bits which have round shank on the top and the bit head is like a regular screwdriver. If you need to have the drill bits for use with nuts and fasteners then you will have to buy a drill bit set which has square base and round shaft. That square base fits into the fasteners and the round hole into the power drill.

For doing drilling into the glass or stained glass then you need to have drill bit set which contains diamond drill bits. These drill bits have diamond either bonded or sintered onto the drill tip which helps drill holes easily into glass. There are special diamond drill bits which can also drill holes into the porcelain tiles.

All said, the basic set of drill bits that you should have is the steel spiral drill bits for most of the home do it yourself kind of needs.

Amit comes from an engineering background and writes about diamond drill bit uses in the industry. He has a website which is dedicated to the diamond drill bit materials

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Amit_Kheterpal

Drill Bit Types - Select One According To Your Needs

2008-05-10T02:10:00.001-07:00

By Amit Kheterpal
The drill bit market has several types of drill bits available to choose from ranging from low cost to very expensive. The cost again depends upon the type of material being used to the type of coating being used and most importantly the use of the drill bit like what type of drilling material being used and what kind of hole we need.

The low cost most inexpensive drill is the regular steel bit which is mostly used in drilling holes in wood. The other types of drill bit are the high speed steel and the titanium coated drill bits. Next in the line which is more expensive but tougher are the carbide tipped and the cobalt bits. Both of these are very expensive but extremely hard anddurable.

The types of drill bits have been designed for various uses. Let us talk about the twist drill which is used for drill holes into wood, plastic or light metal. Brad Point bit and spade bit are also used for wood but they vary based on the diameter of the hole being drilled.

Another kind of bit which is very common is the installer bit which is used for installing phone wires, TV wires and other cable wires. This is specifically designed so that the wire can be pulled through the hole in the bit.

For drilling holes in copper, brass and aluminum the step bit is used.For drilling holes in glass or tiles the glass bit is used. Masons use a masonry drill which is fixed in front of a rotary hammer or a regular hammer drills.

In the light of the above information you would be able to have the desired drill bit and this will you select the bit most suited for your needs. As a matter of precaution always try to ask the manufactures or read the material which comes with the drill for the drill bits best suited for the drill you have bought.

Amit comes from an engineering background and writes about diamond drill bit for glass and their use in the industry. He has a website which is dedicated to the diamond drill bits

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Amit_Kheterpal

Ceramic Tile Drilling

2008-05-10T02:09:00.001-07:00

By Amit Kheterpal
Usually all home owners in some point or the other will like to have a towel stand or a special mirror place in the bathroom and that will involve drilling some kind of a hole into the ceramic tiles. Ceramic tiles are a different ball game when it comes to drilling as they are hard and when applied with extra force and can break.

The composition of ceramic tiles used in most homes is that they have a soft inner core and then thin layer of hard glaze which means that once you drilled a hole into the outer layer the rest of the drilling will just be a breeze. The ceramic tiles can vary in hardness across countries or even regions and that hardness is purely based on the clay and the silica content in the tile. Also, the hardness can vary depending on how much time the ceramic tile was baked in the kiln.

Most of the ceramic tile available in the market today can be drilled into by using the carbide drill bit. These bits generate a lot of heat and hence you need to make sure that you have adequate oil or water to cool the bit otherwise it can be permanently damaged. The diamond drill bit is another solution but they are expensive though they work beautifully for drilling holes into glass or ceramic tiles. The soft tiles can be drilled with carbide drill bits but harder ones will surely need diamond drill bits.

As far as the drill goes never ever have a hammer drill to drill through ceramic tiles. It causes enough vibrations that it will be crack the tile. You will have to use the other type of drills available and also make sure that you drill through the hard glazed covering of the tile very very slowly and by that I mean using absolutely the slowest drill speeds.

The ceramic tile drilling is a very slow process initially as if you get it wrong you will have either the cracked ceramic tile or scratch marks on the tile. The scratch marks can happen if you apply more than the needed pressure the drill may slip away and scratch the surface of the tile.

Be careful and approach slowly and your work will be done without any damage to the tile.

Amit comes from an engineering background and writes about diamond drill bits and their use in the industry. He has a website which is dedicated to the diamond core drill bits

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Amit_Kheterpal

Guidelines to Nails and their Uses

2008-05-10T02:08:00.000-07:00

By Kiya Sama
Nails are also made for joining materials other than wood: masonry nails, roofing nails, drywall nails. Shanks of nails may be ringed, spiraled, or barbed for greater holding power.

Nails come in different shapes for different jobs:

a) Common or box nail (big, flat head, box nail is thinner than common nail) - It's used for rough work, nailing 2 by 4s. There are three basic sizes of the common nail: 10 (3-inch) for toe-nailing, 16 (31/2 inch) for face-to-edge nailing, 20 (4-inch) for nailing through one board into the end of another.

b) Finishing nail (small head with a depression in it) - It is used for finer work. Its head can be concealed below the wood's surface.

c) Casing nail (small tapered head with no depression) - It's used for nailing exterior trim. It can be left flush or set below the surface of the wood.

Nailing Tips:

1. If the wood is hard, drill a hole smaller than the nail in the place where the nail will go.
2. At the end of the board, blunt the nail with a hammer so it will punch through wood rather than wedge it apart.
3. Put oil or soap or candle wax or beeswax on nails to make for easier nailing into the wood.
4. Hold the nail between your thumb and forefinger for nailing. Nails too small? Use a paper clip, tweezers, bobby pin, comb (hold between the teeth), fork.
5. To nail two boards together, nail first through the thin one, then the thick one. Slanting the nails gives more security.
6. To prevent wood from splitting, try staggering the nails rather than placing them in a straight line.
7. Tap until the nail is planted. Hit the head of the nail with heavier and heavier blows as it becomes more securely implanted in the wood.
8. To remove a nail: cushion the wood by putting scrap wood under the hammer head and lever out the nail with the claw.
9. For most nails, use a 14-16 ounce hammer. For brads (small thin nails), use a tack hammer.

KiyaSama is an author on http://www.Writing.Com/

which is a site for Writers.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kiya_Sama

Benefits of a Multi-Tool

2008-05-10T02:06:00.000-07:00

By Cassaundra Flores
Multi-tools have been widely used all over the world as a means of survival at times when you do not have the right tool to use in a given situation. It saves you in situations like when you do not have a knife to cut a branch from a tree or you do not have a tool to tighten up a screw or even just simple things removing silver from your hand. Multi-tools always come in handy. It has so many uses and it is by far the most used invention and the most successful tool in today's generation. It is great for outdoor use like traveling or having a camp out of town.

A multi-tool is considered as a one stop shopping. It is very light and easy to carry. Multi-tool is a versatile and portable hand tool that uniquely combines several tool functions in just a single grip or sometimes in a shape of a credit card. They are small enough to be carried in you wallet or your pocket. A lot of models comes along with a pouch which you can wear them on your belt. It combines every tool that you need in every situation that you may encounter. It acts as a clip-point, wire cutters and serrated knife blades. It can also be a diamond coated file, a needle and regular nose pliers, wire strippers, screwdriver, can or bottle opener, wood saw and scissors. Everything you need is compacted in a handy single grip. These tools comes in different sizes, designs and packaging depending on the company's preference. The tools incorporated in the device may also vary.

Tim Leatherman is the man behind this genius creation. His genuine idea of combining useful devices in a single grip has indeed contributed in making life much more easier than ever. A multi-tool gives us endless possibilities of tool services. Today, a lot of competitors have emerged and all of them seems to be a great hit in the market today.

Multi-tools have its own benefits which you cannot find in any other tool. One major advantage of this device is knowing that it carries more than one tool that fits in your pocket. Imagine carrying a single nose pliers, a scissors, a can opener, a screwdriver a lot more in your pocket. It's quite heavy and it may tear your pocket. Multi-tools are practical and convenient. It is also very easy to use. Having a multi-tool in your pocket guarantees you that you will not be lost in any kind of situation. It can also serve as self-defense when you are out in the dark woods and someone grabs your back. Generally, multi-tool is a one of kind device that is suited for both outdoor and indoor activities. You can accomplish a lot of work even with just a single hand held device. The power of a multi-tool of one of a kind and there are no other versatile devices that do a lot of work as compared to this tool.

Article Multi-Tools is written by Cassaundra Flores, owner of skyfireproducts.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Cassaundra_Flores

Leatherman Multi-Tools

2008-05-10T02:02:00.000-07:00

By Cassaundra Flores
Tim Leatherman is a graduate of the Oregon State University who has a degree in mechanical engineering. He is the founder of Leatherman Tool Group. According to a December 10, 1981 column written by Bill Monroe in The Oregonian, Tim found himself traveling around Europe carrying a tight budget sometime in the year 1975. During his 10 month journey, he only had a scout knife which he felt that it wasn't really enough for him to get through. At that time, he wished he had a compact knife that is filled with everything he needed. As soon as he returned to the United States, he worked on his engineering skill for seven years and thus the Leatherman® tool was born. This trademark became the world leader in multi-tools.

The Leatherman multi-tool that was perfected for seven years got its first patent in 1980. During the early years of the sales, he worked hard to refine the model. His first expectation on sales was that the target was among the large industrial companies catering large staffs of technicians, but the attempt failed. He got an advice from a contact at Early Winters Catalog Company to simplify the multi-tool and since then the sales started to grow dramatically. The first significant sales of Leatherman multi-tool were Cabela's and Early Winters.

The Leatherman Tool Group was formed in 1983 with the objective of selling Leatherman creations. The company then expanded its facilities in 1996 to 90,000 square feet. In 2006, the company has its downfall when they lost a lawsuit for deceptive advertising. However, the product was still advertised in California telling that the Leatherman Company violated a law in that state. The company then opened its very first retail store in 2007 which was located in Portland, Oregon.

The brand Leatherman is a trademark for a multi-tool. This tool is quite larger than a Swiss Army Knife but with the same functions. It includes a pliers, knife, screwdriver and among other devices. This tool is usually a pair of pliers with tons of other tools stored along its handles. It is compact and very light which is very suitable to be worn in a belt holster. Relatively blunt and smooth when it is collapsed for storage. Some models of this brand do have a built-in safety mechanism that locks the selected tool in the open position when it is fully unfolded. There are different methods of unlocking the tools in various models. In some multi-tool, on tool has to be unfolded to release another tool while some models do have an unlock button the enables the tool to be re-folded.

Since 1983, the Leatherman multi-tool already exists for 25 years in the business. The model has now grown in abundance and they all look trendy and flashy. The brand continues to flourish and been recognized as the world's leader in multi-tool and making life easier and more convenient for everybody. Carry it with you wherever you go and you will be sure that you are prepared for any unexpected situations.

Article Leatherman Multi-Tools is written by Cassaundra Flores, owner of skyfireproducts.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Cassaundra_Flores

Log Splitter Saves Time

2008-05-10T02:01:00.000-07:00

By Ray L. Walberg
For those who need to cut a lot of wood for the winter or such, you may want to consider getting a log splitter. A log splitter will allow you to cut your fire wood or your furniture wood very quickly. You will be able to purchase one where other logging equipment is sold and you will be able to save a lot of time and money when you use a log splitter that you is used or that you made yourself. Log splitter plans are located throughout the World Wide Web and you will be able to make yourself one with the plans.

With a hydraulic log splitter you will find that it will run on gas or possibly diesel. The engine is attached to something called an oil pump and that is what will power the hydraulic cylinder. This is why the log cutter will split the wood quickly. However, you have to be concerned with the fact that the tank holds the oil and must be changed every now and then.

There are a lot of exciting features of the hydraulic splitter like the engine's power ranges from 5 to 8 horsepower. If you are using it for your home, you really only need a small engine, because the others are made for commercial use. For those who get a log splitter with a two stage oil pump, you will be able to cut your time down from days to hours. Cutting firewood comes in steps, but this way you can take some of the steps out and combine them to save a lot of time. They also have 10-25 tons of splitting force ready to use. They are very powerful and you need to be very careful when operating a log splitter.

As for some safety tips, most of them are common sense. You should never have your children operate the equipment. You need to make sure that the kids are no where near the equipment because they could still get hurt from the flying debris. You need to also wear good foot wear like steel-toed boots. It is recommended that you do not use loose clothing or even long sleeves, because they can get caught in the long splitter. Safety goggles are a must. Also, before you even use the splitter, you will need to be comfortable with the machine by reading all the instructions completely. You also should never make any adjustments to the settings while using the machine. It's suggested that you use the machine only during the day so that you can alert of where you are and what you are doing. Finally, keep in mind that this is a machine for only wood and nothing else. It's important that you use some common sense and always have the guards on the machine and never take them off.

Ray Walberg's publications can be discovered on a variety of web publications linked to second hand log splitter and hand wood splitter. Through his documents like http://www.insidewoodworking.com/lws/used-log-splitter.html the writer demonstrated his skill on news about used log splitter.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ray_L._Walberg

Five Vital Power Tools You Need

2008-05-10T01:57:00.000-07:00

By Jerry A. Blackburn
Life is never easy, there's always something that we have to do! There's always something that we have to fix or assemble, for either of these projects we need tools. No matter whether you are renting or are a homeowner then you will need certain types of tools. You may wish to remodel your house, or simply assemble flat pack furniture, either way there are five types of power tools which you will need.

The list of five power tools which you need to have for any home is a fairly short list, however that doesn't mean that it's not important. Look at the list of tools and decide which ones you need.

Cordless Screwdriver

Cordless screwdrivers are very useful at believe it or not screwing screws in! These are good for light duty projects that do not require much power. They are great at assembling flat pack furniture. Some also have drill attachments which can be used to drill into softer materials such as when assembling picture frames.

Cordless Drill

Cordless drills are very useful because you are not limited to where you can use them. If you want to drill a large number of holes then it's very useful to have a separate screwdriver and drill so that you don't have to continue changing the bits on your drill. These are great for making all sorts of holes.

Corded Drill

Although cordless drills are now much better than they used to be you still need to have a corded drill. These have much more power than cordless drills and also don't need charging. The only problem with these is that the cord limits where you can go.

Circular Saw

Circular saws mean that you don't have to spend a long time sawing wood and metal with a hand saw. You can just zip through it in a matter of seconds. Power circular saws can be purchased to cut virtually any type of material, including cutting up 2x4's or any sheets of wood. Most circular saws can cut to a depth of around 3 inches without needing to cut the wood twice. These are essential for many jobs around the house.

Jig Saw

Jig saws allow you to make very fine cuts in very little space. Any intricate cuts can be done with a jig saw as they are accurate and reliable.

There are many power tools that you will need in order to do jobs around the house, read the list and decide on the ones that you need.

Home ownership should be great fun, even home improvement projects can be enjoyable. However if you don't have the right tools they can quickly turn into a nightmare. Remember to get the five vital power tools so that you are prepared for any project around the house. While you're buying these it's worthwhile buying some extra things such as hand tools which you might need.

Jerry Blackburn regularly pens summaries on areas associated with black and decker cordless power tools. Recording his experience in detailed writings on dewalt cordless power tools and cordless power tools the columnist demonstrated his expertise on the topic.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jerry_A._Blackburn

Power Tool Startup Guide

2008-04-04T03:40:00.000-07:00

You don't have to own a construction business to need or want a power tool or two. They make life much easier, that's for sure. Time is money, right? Whether you're an avid DIYer or just do the occasional job around the house, power tools, at least one, should be in your life. And if you're a DIY enthusiast, they are a must.

For most people, the drill is the first power tool that makes its way in their heart. Some graduate to circular saws or jigsaws. So, what makes a good power tool and is cheaper better or worse in the long run?

First, we need to clarify the language a bit. Often you'll hear that "cheaper" isn't better. Like most people, you probably think this has to do with price, but it doesn't. Inexpensive is just fine. What you don't want is cheap quality. Most of the time this means staying away from anything that isn't brand name. Sure, these low-quality tools that are often extremely inexpensive will work today, but most give out quickly. You'll soon realize that it's costing you more money to buy lower-quality, less inexpensive power tools. It just isn't worth the immediate little savings.

When someone is heading to the hardware or online store to buy their first power tool, they can be ahead of the game by remembering one thing: never, ever skimp when buying power tools.

How much is your safety worth? Lower-quality power tools might be less expensive, but they are also less safe. Yes, all power tools aren't created equal in the safety department. I don't know about you, but my safety is worth much more than a few dollars savings. Again, this is another reason why the small discount isn't worth it.

When buying a power tool try to think of the job at hand and what you're likely to do with it. For instance, if you plan on doing just light jobs, you wouldn't need to buy the industrial-strength drill. However, if you're on the worksite, quality, durability, safety and power count.

In the market for some saws? Before you leap, look at portable jigsaws. They are multi-taskers-get more for your power tool dollar. A jigsaw is able to do the job of many other saws, such as scroll saws, bandsaws and circular saws. It's also more versatile. Take a look at any basic workshop or worksite with a knowledgeable person at the helm and you'll find at least one jigsaw.

From drills and saws to sanders and routers, power tools make projects easier to complete. They also help us do things that look more professionally. As with any job, make sure you always wear the proper safety equipment and operate the power tools according to their manuals. Good-quality power tools are affordable and they can be found at prices that will make you very happy.

I hope you enjoy your power tools as much as I enjoy mine. Remember, buy quality tools for durability, safety and long-term savings. Never, ever skimp when buying power tools and you'll be just fine.

For high-quality, but dirt cheap, reconditioned power tools, click the power tools link.

You can find other air power tools at a deep discount at Air-Power-Tools.com.

Liven up the worksite by getting a worksite radio at a cheap price from WorksiteRadios.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jake_Strong

Building a Sawhorse - Wood Plans Are Better Than Plastic

2008-04-04T03:39:00.000-07:00

My friends don't think much about my plans to build a sawhorse. Maybe they remember their dads all bent over cutting boards with a handsaw. They probably think power tools have made the sawhorse obsolete. Maybe they think the plastic kind work fine. I say that a wood sawhorse may be one of the most valuable (and forgotten) shop accessories I will own. Here are a few reasons why.

Workbench vs Sawhorse: Which is Stronger?
Unlike the straight legs on a workbench, sawhorse legs tilt outwards from the top (splayed). Mechanical engineers know that this immediately adds strength to any kind of structure. Add to that a couple of side braces (gussets) and it becomes an indestructible frame that can effortlessly hold hundreds of pounds. A workbench, on the other hand, is more likely to wobble over time, and will need to have its joinery tightened up periodically.

Get Up Close to Your Project
My biggest complaint with most shop work tables is that one side of my project always seems to be unreachable. Using a sawhorse can solve this problem quite nicely. The open-frame design lets me easily move around a project during construction, and move in close to sections that would otherwise be hard to reach.

Using a Sawhorse as a Clamping Station
Seems like I'm always searching for someplace to clamp a board. I try to use the work tables in my shop, but sometimes my clamps don't fit over the edge of the table top very well, and I end up with lose, floppy boards. Now I'm convinced that the best place to clamp boards in on a sawhorse. The 2x6s and 2x4s that most sawhorses are built from make perfect surfaces for clamping. And 2x lumber is thin enough that I can get by using smaller clamps. That definitely saves me a few bucks at the home center.

Using a Sawhorse to Cut Large Panels
Cutting down large sheets of plywood can be a pain. If I'm not down on my hands and knees in the garage, then I'm precariously trying to balance a 4 x8 sheet on the edge of a table. If I can get a couple sawhorses built, I will instantly have one of the best panel cutting stations I've seen. Simply add a 1x4 board across the bottom of each sawhorse to serve as a support for the plywood sheet. Then position a sawhorse at each end of the panel and lift the plywood up onto the supports. Be sure to clamp both sides of the plywood to the sawhorses. You can then use a circular saw and a ripping guide to safely cut down a plywood panel into any size you need - without ever having to get down on the floor.

See Sawhorse Plans

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Andy_Duframe

Screw Sizes - How Many Do You Really Need for Woodworking?

2008-04-04T03:38:00.000-07:00

You can always find large, expansive charts of screw sizes, but do you really need that many choices? My list for woodworking is now down to four, and I rarely have a project that needs anything more than that.

All-Purpose Wood screw - #8 x 1 - 1/4"
This is the real workhorse in my shop. Most of my projects use 3/4 inch plywood mounted to a piece of 3/4 inch solid wood. This #8 screw is the perfect length for bonding these two pieces together - without it poking through the other side. I also like the size of the shank, which is just large enough to resist breaking, but not too large that it splits the wood.

Perfect for Thin Wood - #6 x 3/4"
With thinner pieces of wood (like 1/2 inch), I need a shorter wood screw to hold everything together. A #6 x 3/4 inch screw is perfect for the job. The length is just right for bonding 1/2 inch stock, and since the wood is a little thinner than what I normally use, I can go with a smaller shank.

Going into End Grain - #8 x 2"
Putting screws into end grain creates a few problems. The edge of a board just isn't as durable as the face, and wood fibers easily crumble when you try to drive in a woodscrew, not to mention that this is an easy way to split the board. The only way to avoid these problems is to drill a deep pilot hole, include countersinking for the shank and head, and then use a longer screw.

The Big-Job Wood screw - #10 x 3"
I'm always finding some occasion where I need to mount things to the 2x4 studs in my basement. All of the screw sizes I've mentioned so far just won't do the job when it comes to putting up shelves, cabinets, and other heavy items in my shop. I don't use this large of a woodscrew very often, but when the need arises, I'm always glad I have a small supply on hand.

More woodworking screw sizes

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Andy_Duframe

Air Tools Beginner's Guide

2008-04-04T03:37:00.000-07:00

Buying air power tools for the first time can be a daunting task-as can finding the right tool anytime. In an effort to make your eventual purchase more enjoyable and rewarding, I'm presenting you with this air power tools buying guide. I'd recommend printing it out or bookmarking this article as a guide.

The first thing you need to know is that there's an air power tool for virtually any job out there-and I mean any job. And the second crucial point to remember is that all air power tools require a separate air compressor. Many first-time tool buyers don't realize this or forget. Keep that in the back of your mind always.

Let's talk about air compressors for a moment. They are not all the same. When you buy an air power tool, it will have a PSI (pressure per square inch) rating. You need a air compressor with the same PSI capability. It should go without saying that your air hoses and connections must match perfectly. You want a tight fit.

Two main types of air compressors are: compact and piston-type.

Compact compressors don't use a tank to store compressed air. As such, the compact compressor runs while giving your tool the air it requires. The benefit of compact compressors are the ability to take them anywhere with ease, because they are small and light. However, this is a tradeoff. While being small and light, they lack power. If you're going to doing any power painting, for instance, a compact compressor will most likely be inadequate.

Piston-type compressors, on the other hand, are more powerful. They have a tank that stores the compressed air. The compressor doesn't need to run constantly like the compact compressors do. Instead, it only runs when the air needs to be adjusted back to a certain pressure. The piston-type compressors have two stage models-single and double. If you're doing a heady-duty job, it's best to get a double-stage compressor.

Perhaps one of the most common air power tool bought is a nail gun, so let's go over some quick basics about them.

Nail guns come in two main varieties: coil and stick. A coil-based nail gun holds the nails in a drum-like container. Typically, these guns will hold a few hundred nails. The stick-based nail guns are for your smaller, general jobs. They usually hold a couple dozen or so nails. Unless you're doing some construction or a very large project, a stick-based gun will do the job.

When buying an air-powered nail gun, think about what you intend to use it for. Many nail guns are built with a specific task in mind. Some examples of task-based nail guns are: framing nail guns, finishing nail guns, roofing nail guns, etc.

Finishing nail guns are more for your light work, while framing nail guns are for heavy-duty work.

Just like anything great in life, air power tools come in a variety of sizes and loaded features. As to brands, that's really a personal question. Some people become loyal to specific brands. If you're not sure what to look for, try Bostitch, Craftsman, DeWalt, Milwaukee, and Porter-Cable first.

You can find other air power tools at a deep discount at Air-Power-Tools.com.

For high-quality, but dirt cheap, reconditioned power tools, click the power tools link.

Liven up the work place by getting a worksite radio at a cheap price from WorksiteRadios.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jake_Strong

Tools You May Need When Installing Bamboo Flooring

2008-04-03T06:49:00.000-07:00

If you've decided to install new bamboo flooring in your home and don't intend to pay someone else to do the installation, you'll want to be sure you have all the right tools to get the job done right. Here's a list of the basic you'll need to have handy. Write down this list and check them off as you put them in the tool box.

Circular Saw - This is the round saw that's used for cutting the floor boards themselves.

Screwdriver - for removing and tightening screws.

Electric Drill and drill bits - This is for drilling starter holes for nails and screws. If using a hand screwdriver is too time consuming you can also get screwdriver bit attachments for your drill.

Hammer - For general nailing.

Prybar - For removing any damaged pieces but also used for holding the final board in position while nailing it down.

Butt Chisel - Great for removing the baseboards along the walls.

Putty Knife - Useful if you need to use wood putty or any adhesives.

Nailset - This has a smaller point on the end. You hit it with a hammer to drive the nail deeper than the wood surface. You would then fill in those holes and stain or paint to match. Sometimes they are left open if it's a deliberate part of the design.

Tape Measure - For measuring the length of rooms, boards, anything. Essential in the initial design, also helpful when cutting boards to be sure they are the appropriate length. Remember to measure twice, cut once.

Chalk Line or Laser Line - this marks the line against which you are working or aligning boards. A chalk line actually snaps down a line of true chalk. If you don't want the mess of that you can upgrade to a laser line which shoots a beam of light along your chosen path.

Carpenter's Square - this is for general use to make sure edges are square and line up with each other. Also useful in the initial design.

For more information about installing bamboo flooring or on purchasing discount bamboo flooring please visit our website.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alana_Tanner

Air Cleaner Reviews - What the Terms Mean and What They Mean To You

2008-04-03T06:47:00.000-07:00

If you are in the market for an air cleaner, you have probably looked at air cleaner reviews to compare features such as cost, square footage, filter make-up and more. Wading through the information can sometimes be daunting as there are so many abbreviations and undefined terms leaving you unsure about what the real advantages are for any of the cleaners. Below are 5 of the most common terms found in air cleaner reviews; what they mean, and how they benefit you.

dB Decibels of Sound

A decibel is to sound as an inch is to size. Decibels are the units of measurement used for sound. Silence is measured at 0 dB, a whisper is measured at 15 dB, and conversation is measured at 60 dB. How much sound you want your air cleaner to emit is a personal preference. Some like a cleaner that gives off white noise, particularly in the bedroom, because for some it facilitates sleep. Others, prefer an almost silent cleaner. These ranges should help you determine how the air cleaner you choose will sound.

CFM Cubic Feet per Minute

Cubic feet per minute measures air flow, specifically how much air passes a stationary point every 60 seconds. The greater the air flow an air cleaner is able to produce, the more room air changes your cleaner is able to make, resulting in less pollutant build up.

AHAM Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers

This organization verifies the testing results of home appliances such as refrigerators, room air conditioners, humidifiers and room air cleaners. As a member of this organization, a manufacturer has allowed their air cleaners to be tested by an independent third party laboratory to give the consumer an unbiased overview of product effectiveness.

CADR Clean Air Delivery Rate

If the manufacturer of your air cleaner is a member of the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM), The AHAM seal will appear on the back of the box and will always list three CADR numbers - one for tobacco smoke, one for pollen and one for dust. The CADR indicates volume of filtered air delivered by an air cleaner. The higher the tobacco smoke, pollen and dust numbers, the faster the unit filters the air, making them more effective in literally clearing the air.

CADR 2/3 Rule for Tobacco Smoke

According to the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers, choose an air cleaner with a clean air delivery rate that is at 2/3 the size of your room. So a room measuring 120 square feet would require an air cleaner with a clean air delivery rate of at least 80. Placing this cleaner in a smaller room would mean the air would be cleaned more often and faster.

Understanding these terms, and the benefits they afford you will help insure that you find the best air cleaner for you, your family, and your lifestyle.

Take good care,
Debbie Davis

Debbie Davis is President of PurerAir.com which offers HEPA air purifiers for the improvement of indoor air quality. Visit us now and see the Blueair 402 Air Cleaner with Smokestop filter and CADR of 240, or call our 24 hour customer support line at (800) 997-2989 for expert advice.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Debbie_Davis

Safety Training In Power Tool Use Will Ensure Employee Safety

2008-04-03T06:45:00.000-07:00

Training is the first step in tool safety. Initial training includes two components one of general awareness training and two, operational training. General awareness training is can be in the form of reading the information included with the tool. Operational training can be done by taking a class on the tool's use and safety factors needing to be addressed; this class should include information and operational (hands-on) training, pre-operational procedures, basic maintenance procedures, and what appropriate personal protective equipment is required.

Before using a tool:

Locate and put on necessary and appropriate personal protective equipment.

Check for loose fitting clothing and jewelry and remove if they can entangle with the use of the tool.

Look at the work area and make sure it is well lit, dry, and clean before beginning work.

Tools must be inspected prior to use to ensure that that it is in good working order. If there are defects, don't use and make the necessary repairs. Next check the guards if applicable. Tools with guards must meet these minimum general requirements:

Be secure - Removable guards are in place on the machine or equipment before use.

Prevent contact - Guards prevent any part of any employee's body and clothing from making contact with dangerous moving parts.

Protect from falling objects - Guards ensure that no objects can fall into moving parts.

If a guard is defective or damaged, the tool is defective and needs to be repaired. Do not defeat these guards.

For operation of the tool:

Always use the proper tool for the right job.

Do not remove a guard for any reason while operating tools.

Electric cables and cords must be kept clean and free from kinks.

Do not carry the tool by its cord.

All necessary personal protective equipment is worn while using the tool.

If you are distracted while using the tool, stop work with the tool.

When done with a tool, basic maintenance must be performed, for example the tool should be kept sharp, oiled, and stored properly, as appropriate.

By following these pointers, working with power tools will be safe and the tools will also have a longer.

Brent Bowlin is a health and safety researcher who has helped businesses in implementing safety programs. For help contact him at abbsafetynet@gmail.com and for safety supplies go to http://www.safetysuppliescanada.com, they deliver anywhere.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Brent_A_Bowlin

Do You Know How To Measure A Chain Saw Blade And Chain?

2008-04-02T06:09:00.001-07:00

Is your chainsaw starting to seem dull and not perform as well? Looks like it's time to replace the chain. In order to do this, you will need to know the length of both the chainsaw blade as well as the length and size of your chain. If you've checked out the manufacturers' charts, they might seem a little overwhelming. But it really is pretty simple once you understand what's involved in the length of the blade and chainsaw chain.

When you're ready to replace your chain, the first thing to do is determine the size of your chainsaw bar. If you happen to have an Oregon chainsaw, this should be easy. Just check the first two numbers of the ten-digit model number that is stamped on the motor end of the blade. That's your chainsaw bar length.

Don't have an Oregon chainsaw that easily shows you the length of the blade? Then here are some tips for figuring it out yourself.

What's The Best Way To Measure A Chain Saw Blade?

To measure the chainsaw blade itself is simple enough to do. Just put your measuring tape at the end of the bar up against the casing and measure straight down the bar all the way to the tip of the blade.

Blade and bar are two terms that are both used to indicate the same item. This is the blade that extends from the casing of the motor and carries the chain which is what does the sawing for you.

Manufacturers were kind enough to standardize the chainsaw blade lengths into two-inch increments. The most common sizes are 16, 18, and 20 inches although the full range goes from 10 to 42 inches! When you measure your blade, round up to the nearest 2-inch measurement if needed.

Measuring A Chainsaw Chain

To measure the chain on your chainsaw, there are two things you will need to know ... the number of drive links and the pitch of the chain.

A drive link is simply a tooth on the chain and your chain's length is determined by the number of drive links (or teeth). The pitch of the chain also affects the size of the drive links.

The pitch of the chain is important to know as it must match the pitch of both the drive sprocket as well as the bar nose sprocket. This should be stamped on the drive link but if you need to measure the pitch yourself, take the distance between any 3 rivets of the chain and divide by 2.

As an example, a 1/4" pitch chain might have 52 drive links and be 2.17 feet in length, while a 3/8" pitch with 52 drive links would be 3.18 feet in length. So the pitch affects the drive link size which affects your blade's length.

Still unsure? Just check with your chain saw's manufacturer or anyone who makes chains and they will be able to clear up any confusion you may have.

So now that you know how to measure a chainsaw chain and chainsaw blade and are ready to buy your replacement, check out the deals that update daily at ChainsawDeals.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Cullen_Blakeman

Cordless Power Tools

2008-04-02T06:07:00.000-07:00

Last fall while exploring some interesting trails around our rural property I noticed how some brush had been quickly growing in around the trails I liked to hike.

I didn't have my chainsaw with me having just come from work. I did however, have all of my contractor tools including my cordless power tools out in the truck. Maybe the cordless reciprocating saw would work in a pinch to clear some of the brush. We call it the 'saws-all' on the job site because it will cut nearly anything from shingles or 2x6 to nails. I was just looking around when a real nice deer scampered away. He had obviously been watching me.

After the six-pointer scampered away I hurried to the truck and retrieved the De Walt 18 volt reciprocating saw. I put in a new blade specially designed for cutting wood and quickly trimmed the trails.

THE POSSIBILITIES ARE ENDLESS

Taking a deep breath and relaxing a few minutes I suddenly realized I could use my cordless tools for more than just building houses. The reciprocating saw had made short work of that brush. It was quiet and much lighter than my chainsaw. So I took a fresh look at possible uses of all of my cordless power tools.

The next week we were heading off to our remote moose camp and I decided to pack the cordless tools as well. The old camp was in need of some repairs and I figured the cordless drill and trim saw would work fine for what I needed. The guys kind of razzed me about not leaving work at home but after fixing the plumbing and putting in a new set of front steps all in about an hour they quickly changed their tune about my cordless power tools.

With one day left in our moose hunt Mike finally shot a small bull. It was behind a small pond quite a distance from the road and a discussion ensued on how to get the animal back to camp. Finally it was decided we would have to cut a trail to the downed bull. For an hour we took turns with the chainsaw to clear a path and then the saw blew a piston ring about 100 yards from the bull. What now?

I remembered the cordless power tools, in particular the saws-all and ran back to camp to fetch it. Although it was a little slower, it did the job.

We have since used our cordless power tools for such varied jobs as building a firewood drier and cutting holes for ice fishing. The possibilities are truly endless.

WHAT TO BUY?

As a contractor I buy the very best tools I can. My 18 volt DeWalt Cordless kit cost $600 cdn. but was well worth it. It came with a charger, 4 batteries, light, trim saw, drill, and reciprocating saw. All of these cordless power tools are rechargeable and durable.

For the weekend outdoor enthusiast I have seen cordless drills as low as $19 and kits for $119. Decide how often you will use it and buy accordingly. One word of caution though- try and buy the higher voltage tools (18 volts) as the extra power always is worth the extra dollars.

Only a few short years ago cordless power tools were only 12 volts and pretty wimpy compared to their 110 volt AC counterparts. Not anymore. 18 Volt cordless power tools are powerful and resilient- perfect for the outdoorsman or do it yourselfer.

SAFTEY CONCERNS

I do a lot of hunting from tree stands and trimming up impeding tree limbs is all part of successful bow hunting. Chainsaws can be extremely dangerous so I always wear protective clothing and a hard hat, just as I was taught in the chainsaw operator's course. I do it- but I don't like it. Hanging from a branch, tied off to a limb above my head just wasn't fun. When I started packing the cordless saw instead the job got a whole lot safer and a whole lot more fun. I could concentrate on trimming only the necessary branches instead of making the safest cuts. It really helped using cordless power tools.

GO CORDLESS! WHY?

The more we started using our cordless power tools the more benefits became apparent. Not only could we use them at work but at any site without power lines.

Our family have been living off the grid for 14 years now. We have tried to make renewable energy a part of our life's work. Rechargeable batteries are a socially responsible alternative to fossil fuel power. There are no toxic fumes involved operating cordless power tools and the batteries can be repaired if they ever fail.

As publishers of Living Off The Grid online magazine every decision we make in our own lifestyle has to be in tune with our renewable energy focus. With a solar charger, ATV battery and small inverter power tools are always at your fingertips awaiting any project you set your mind to. Not only are cordless power tools socially and environmentally more responsible - they are quiet.

Are you looking for other uses for Cordless Power Tools, How about for Cordless Power Tools for Off Grid Living

I hear. The snort of a big bull moose, the 'woof' of a bear as he catches your scent or even the chatter of a chipmunk all enhance my outdoor experience. Any mechanical aid that we use to enhance our outdoor experience should fit this focus as much as possible. The drone of a chainsaw is a foreign sound in the wilderness.

Use your cordless power tools whenever possible.

Are you looking for Cordless Power Tools.

Our family has been living off the grid since last year, and loving every minute of it.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bill_Temple

How To Match The Rope To The Job

2008-03-23T00:00:00.000-07:00

Searching for the right rope for your job can be overwhelming. Over the years, manufacturers have produced a variety of ropes for a variety of jobs. Each rope has unique strengths and weaknesses. Particular ropes are well suited for certain jobs and not others. Some ropes have a wide range of capabilities, but there is no "one size fits all" rope. Don't let the variety scare you. You need the right rope for your job. Here is a guide to some of the most common ropes including their strengths, weaknesses and which one will be right for your situation.

Manila Rope

The natural strength and all around utility of manila rope has made it the standard for quality rope. Manila rope consists of all-natural hemp fibers. This creates aesthetic appeal commonly used for decorative fences or other landscaping purposes.

Because of susceptibility to liquid absorption and UV decay, the user should be careful of sustained tension on the rope especially when exposed to the elements. Manila's absorbing quality makes it the first choice for many physical activities that require direct handling of the rope. For such purposes as tug of war, climbing, obstacle courses or stage rigging, manila rope absorbs perspiration providing better grip. This rope will not hazardously snap back when broken as other synthetic ropes may. For a quality natural rope that is aesthetically appealing and safe for active handling, manila rope is an excellent choice.

Positives: Visually appealing, snap-resistant, low-cost.

Negatives: Not UV or water resistant, may harden or rot over long periods of time.

Most Common Uses: pulling, decoration, landscaping, rigging.

Polypropylene Rope

Polypropylene ropes are synthetic and possess a variety of unique qualities. Polypropylene rope is particularly suited for use around water and will not rot due to water and is resistant to mildew. This rope is also produced in a variety of colors making it a common choice for barriers at golf courses, parks or even power plants. Because polypropylene floats, it is used to designate swimming lanes in pools. Commercial fishermen commonly utilize this rope, especially in crab and lobster lines. It can also be used for buoy moorings, aquaculture and net lines.

Dielectric ability is an important quality of polypropylene rope. Should this rope touch a live electrical wire it will not conduct the electric current. Because polypropylene rope acts as an insulator, electricians and tree workers who work around live electrical wires use polypropylene rope. When using this rope for hauling or hoisting, attention should be given to any abrasions against the rope as it can melt from friction. Polypropylene also lacks stretch memory. When stretched, it will not return to its normal size.

This rope has wide capabilities. If you need a strong rope to be used in or around water, or if you anticipate possible exposure to electricity, then polypropylene rope will be your best choice.

Positives: dielectric/insulator, floats, water resistant, lightweight, low-cost, color variety.

Negatives: not UV resistant, stretches (although this could be a positive), susceptible to friction

Most Common Uses: work around electric lines, marine applications, swimming-lane barriers.

Nylon Rope

For superior strength and remarkable stretching capabilities, nylon is the rope of choice. Stronger than both manila and polypropylene, nylon commonly finds itself pulling the heaviest loads and bearing the most weight. Having superior strength, nylon also maintains a smooth surface and abrasion resistance making it ideal for pulley systems or winches. Also, different fall protection systems or rescue line assemblies are constructed from nylon rope. Within these applications, the strength and elasticity of nylon will be most beneficial.

While both manila and polypropylene are susceptible to UV damage, nylon rope is resistant to UV, chemical exposure or any other form of rot. Despite the fact that water can weaken the strength of nylon, this effect is so slight that nylon is still commonly used for mooring lines and anchor lines. In fact, nylon rope is a great choice for any tie-down because of its strength, stretch and sustenance in any environment. The all-around durability of nylon rope makes it useful for any job in any situation.

Positives: Strong, smooth, stretch resistant, abrasion resistant, UV resistant.

Negatives: Absorbs water, weakens in water.

Most Common Uses: Towing lines, anchor lines, pulleys, winches, tie-downs, fall-protection systems.

Kevlar Rope

Few innovations in the past century have been as remarkable and useful as Kevlar invented in 1965 and produced by DuPont. Among its many uses, Kevlar materials have been used for bullet-proof armor and flame resistant material. Kevlar rope is no less remarkable. Pound for pound, Kevlar rope is far stronger than steel and it will not rust. For this reason, Kevlar rope is used as mooring lines on oil rigs and ships. While nylon rope has certain elastic abilities, Kevlar rope will not stretch at all, making it the best choice when complete stability is needed.

Because of its polymeric properties, Kevlar material is susceptible to UV light and should not be permanently exposed to UV rays. Unlike any other rope, Kevlar rope is flame resistant. This rope can resist temperatures 160° C before it begins to weaken, and Kevlar will only strengthen when exposed to subzero temperatures. One should be aware of any signs of wear on Kevlar rope, as the integrity of the rope can be more seriously compromised than the damage appears. Kevlar's qualities are best demonstrated in extreme temperature conditions, or any time sheer strength is required.

Positives: Strongest rope, freezing resistant, flame resistant, chemical resistant, water resistant, stretch resistant, cut resistant.

Negatives: not UV resistant, not immune to damage.

Most Common Uses: winch lines, mooring lines, helicopter slings , temperature extreme situations.

Styles of Rope

Ropes are not only made with a variety of materials (manila, polypropylene, nylon, Kevlar, etc.), but any given rope can have different styles of braid or twist. Twisted ropes appear in the form of a spiral and are created by twisting at least three strands of yarn in alternate directions. This alternation prevents the rope from unwinding, while also making it easy to splice. Because of the speed of their manufacturing, twisted ropes tend to be less expensive.

Braided ropes take on a rounded form and are generally smooth. This feature allows them to be used in high-friction situations like winches and pulleys. During the longer and more expensive process of braiding, several fibers pass above, below and around each other. This relatively recent innovation provides a rope that will not twist, but cannot be spliced.

Several different ways of braiding provide different qualities. Solid braid ropes are a complex braid that may have a filler core. They have high elongation but less strength. Diamond braids rotate fibers over and under one another in opposing directions. A filler is usually placed in the center of this rope giving it moderate strength. Double braided rope can actually be understood as a rope within a rope. One braid is formed over another braid to share the load evenly. Double braided rope is a favorite for boaters, but should be used with caution in manufacturing situations.

Rarely can you walk in to your local hardware store and find a full selection of rope types and sizes. On line stores like U.S. Rope-Cable not only offer a full selection of all types and diameters of rope, but they will cut to length the rope you need! Matching the right rope to the right job not only will make the job easier and safer, but the job might even be fun!

Paul Galla, President

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kevlar

http://www.iqsdirectory.com/kevlar-rope/

http://www.us-rope-cable.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Paul_Galla

The Cold Heat Tip

2008-02-27T03:03:00.000-08:00

by Tracy V. Wilson

Inside This Article
1.
Introduction to How Cold Heat Works
2.
Joints and Irons: Soldering 101
3.
Resistance and Soldering
4.
Cold Heat Circuitry
5.
The Cold Heat Tip
6.
Lots More Information
7.
See all Materials Science articles
The Cold Heat Tip
The original marketing materials for the Cold Heat tool described its tip as a patented composite material known as Athalite. We suspect it's made from graphite (a form of carbon) or a substance primarily composed of graphite. Here's why:

* It physically resembles graphite.
* Carbon has 2,500 to 7,500 times the resistance of copper, so it can heat up quickly when exposed to electrical current.
* Some resistance soldering systems use graphite for thicker probes.
* The company has declined to identify the material, but it has said that it's natural and used in blast furnaces and the locomotive industry [Source: Seattle Post-Intelligencer]. Coal, which is mostly carbon, fits that description.
* The Cold Heat tool's patents describe its tip as graphite. The patents also identify the insulator between the tip's halves as mica.

If the tip is really made from a patented compound, another company owns the patent for it. Hyperion Innovations, maker of the Cold Heat tool and owner of the patents describing it, does not own a separate patent for a compound material. In addition, the only patents that list Grigore Axinte -- inventor of the Cold Heat soldering iron -- as the inventor describe tools, not compounds.

A broken Cold Heat tip and solder
Solder: burninated. Tip: broken.

Unfortunately, graphite can be brittle. One of the most common complaints in product reviews and message board posts is that the Cold Heat tip breaks during normal use. Unfortunately, using the recommended light pressure on the tip wasn't sufficient to complete a circuit when we tried to use the tool. Just after we successfully completed a circuit and melted some solder, our tip broke.

Broken Cold Heat tip
Our broken Cold Heat tip.

We have heard that some people love their Cold Heat tools. We suspect that they have the knack for using just the right amount of pressure at just the right angle, completing a circuit without shorting out any electrical components being soldered or breaking the tip.

For lots more information about soldering, electronics and related topics, check out the links on the next page.

Cold Heat Circuitry

2008-02-27T02:55:00.000-08:00

We've established that the Cold Heat tool has pretty simple circuitry. The circuit that includes the power switch also includes a small light. A parallel circuit stays broken until both halves of the tip come into contact with a conductive material. A small light on this circuit lights up when it's complete, also.

The Cold Heat tool also has some electronic components beyond basic wiring. A small circuit board is at the end opposite the tip. This circuit board has two diodes, several resistors and a 14-pin integrated circuit. When both halves of the tip come into contact with solder, the chip routes power from the batteries through that branch of the circuit.

Cold Heat circuit board with battery contacts
The Cold Heat tool has a small circuit board next to the
battery contacts.
Cold Heat circuit board reverse
The flip side of the circuit board

So, when you turn the Cold Heat tool on, current flows from the negative pole of the batteries through a wire that leads to a small light. From there, it flows to the circuit board and then to the positive battery terminal. As long as solder isn't in contact with both halves of the tool's tip, that's the end of the process. Once you apply solder, the chip routes lots of power through the portion of the circuit that includes the tip. The electricity moves:

1. From the circuit board to one half of the tip
2. Through that half of the tip
3. Through the solder
4. Through the other half of the tip
5. Back to the circuit board
6. From the circuit board to the positive battery terminal, passing through another small light on the way

Metal contacts for Cold Heat tip
Metal contacts connect the wiring to the halves of the tip.

The tip is as important to the tool's abilities as the circuitry. We'll examine the tip, including what it's made of, next.

Resistance and Soldering

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Resistance is central to traditional soldering irons and to the Cold Heat iron. Electricity moves more easily through substances with lots of free electrons, like copper, than it does through substances with fewer free electrons, like carbon. In other words, substances like carbon have greater resistance. Moving current through substances with high resistance can create heat and sometimes light. This is the same principle that makes light bulbs work -- a light bulb has a resistive filament that gets hot and bright when current flows through it.

Cold Heat tool's wires
The Cold Heat tool's wires

The heart of a Cold Heat tool is a broken circuit that travels from a few AA batteries to a tip that has two halves. The tip can look like one solid piece, but a dark insulating material keeps the two halves electrically isolated from one another.

Cold Heat tip with insulator, broken
A Cold Heat tip. The dark strip down the center is an insulator. Note that one half of the tip has broken.

When you turn the Cold Heat tool on, the switch closes a circuit that also includes a small light. This light lets you know that the tool is on. But a parallel circuit -- the one leading to the tip -- is still broken. This circuit remains broken until you put something conductive, like solder, in contact with both halves of the tip. The solder completes the circuit, also allowing current to pass through a second light.

Because of electrical resistance, both the solder and the tip heat up very quickly, and the solder melts. Dry skin doesn't conduct enough electricity to effectively complete the circuit, so the tip stays cool when you touch it.

We'll look at the circuitry and the tip in more detail in the next two sections.