Woodworker's Journal 2011-35-1, страница 50
rr ^ r'^ / / r* c r- I J. > , x r; ^ !-- Today's Shop The Downsizing Trend Hits Power Tools By A. J. Hamler A/of too big and not too small, the new crop of compact tools brings more power to smaller packages, making for lighter weight and improved control. Cutting the Cord With the advent of lithium-ion batteries, the door opened for brand-new tools that upped the power while lowering the weight and size. "While lithium-ion has been around for a while in laptops, cell phones and PDAs, a different type of cell was needed for power tools that could withstand potential spikes in power requirement, say, when you stall a drill, or even the general usage cycle," says Bosch's Edwin Bender. "Whereas a cell phone drains the battery within a fairly narrow power band, power Cordless power tools were introduced by Black & Decker in 1961. This invention led to an association with the Mational Aeronautics and Space Administration, which hired Black & Decker to develop cordless power tools such as a zero-impact wrench and rotary hammer drill for the Gemini and Apollo missions. For some years now, we woodworkers have been faced with an interesting question: "Should I use a full-size lool or just go for a little toss-in-a-drawer tool?" Of course, for most serious woodworking tasks, the little tool S simply aren't an option. Minimal torque, no versatility and not much power (and that power doesn't last long). They sure are light and easy to use, though. On the other end, full-size tools offer power, speed and stamina, plus lots of versatility with multiple speeds, torque settings, cutter interchangeability and more. But they're heavy. Spend an afternoon holding a big 1/2" corded drill over your head installing ceiling trim, and your arms and shoulders will complain for days. We've all asked: why can't there be serious tools that are "just right?" Finally, there are. And the offerings seem to grow daily in this major downsizing trend. But why now? If you're like me, you've wanted serious tools in this size category for a long lime, so why the sudden explosion? Here's your first clue: Cordless tools started this revolution. 50 February 2011 Woodworker's Journal JMaasa: ii^aVki^ & [Fsmtas© Map^tetoMI |
