In the next part of this series Kevin Brannigan, Marketing Manager at Makita looks at three XGT power-tools that have been specifically designed for high-demand tasks, and how together they can offer a solution for major renovation or demolition tasks.
When working on renovation or refurbishment projects, one of the most labour-intensive elements can be removing walls, fixtures, and fittings. A combination of a high-quality, powerful demolition hammer and reciprocating saw can help make work quicker and easier.
Historically, corded products have been the go-to solution to tackle such arduous jobs, however developments in battery technology mean that cordless products are now a viable, alternative solution for even the most demanding tasks. For example, the tools in the Makita 40VMax XGT range have been designed to deliver both high-performance and superior run times. Furthermore, selecting cordless tools with high efficiency brushless motors can improve productivity by increasing run times by up to 50% per battery charge.
Utilising cordless tools has added benefits including improved safety and flexibility. The removal of power cables improves user safety by eliminating a potential trip hazard as well as offering greater flexibility. In addition, using tools that have been designed to operate within the same battery platform also means that batteries can be switched between tools as required, making it simpler for the user.
When removing partition wall sections, a tool that can cut many different materials with minimal effort will help improve productivity. For example, with an orbital cutting action and speed of up to 3,000 strokes per minute, the Makita JR002G XGT 40VMax Brushless Reciprocating Saw is ideal for cutting through wood, metal, plastic and many other materials thanks to a wide choice of demolition blades. The machine also has a constant speed control that maintains the blade speed under load for more efficient cutting.
https://makitauk.com/products/40vmax-reciprocating-saws
When breaking up concrete or demolishing walls and floors, a powerful demolition hammer can help streamline the work. The Makita HM001G XGT 40VMax Brushless Demolition Hammer delivers up to an impressive 2,650 blows per minute (bpm) and 9.4 Joules (J) of impact energy per stroke. For heavier duty tasks there are also more powerful cordless tools such as the HM002G 80VMax (40VMax x2) that offers up to 1,900 bpm and an impact energy of 20.9 Joules.
https://makitauk.com/products/demolition-hammers-1
With hand-arm vibration being a serious issue in the construction industry, it is important for professionals to minimise their exposure wherever possible to prevent the harmful long-term effects on joints and muscles. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has set a maximum vibration exposure level per day and when this is reached, work must stop. To reduce the risk and maximise productivity, professionals should opt for power tools that include features to minimise vibration levels, such as those that include Makita’s Anti-Vibration Technology (AVT). This is a combination of measures designed to reduce the vibration transferred from the tool to the user’s hands and arms. This extends the length of time that users can safely and comfortably operate the tools.
https://makitauk.com/anti-vibration-technology
Finally, dust management is also a key health and safety concern. The HSE advises that a M-Class dust extractor is the minimal legal requirement for tasks that produce concrete, brick and mortar dust. The Makita Auto-start Wireless System (AWS), included on the HM001G and HM002G, makes this simple. It allows the tool to connect via Bluetooth to compatible dust extractors to automatically run the extractor whilst the tool is in use – providing a cleaner and healthier work environment. For cordless tools that feature Makita’s AWS Bluetooth functionality, these can also be connected wirelessly to any mains powered M-Class extractor that has a power take-off facility, by using one of the Makita wireless adaptor units (wireless adaptor for 110v extractors – 191A40-6, or for 240v extractors – 199804-6).
https://makitauk.com/products/dust-management
For demolition and refurbishment work it is important to invest in high-quality tools that can deliver the required performance to improve productivity and efficiency. However, it is also fundamental to consider the safety features that will help to avoid long-term health effects. Choosing tools from the same battery platform will also allow batteries to be switched between tools, providing greater flexibility.
To find out more about the Makita range of high-performance tools and accessories, visit www.makitauk.com
