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The top vital workshop tools 2017

15 March 2019

The workshop environment is perfect for inspiring creativity and executing any project you might have in mind, from carpentry to metal work and everything in between. But a workshop is only its walls and the workshop tools it contains. Apart from the typically adjustable wrenches, saws, and hand riveters, workshops can be filled with some more sophisticated and heavy-duty items, such as air tools—otherwise known as pneumatic tools—bench grinders, Welders, Tube & Pipe Benders or drill presses. So, what are some of these tools, what are their specific purposes, and how can they be used to aid you in your creative endeavours and earn a spot in your workshop?

Air tools and air compressors

Air tools, as the name suggests, are air-powered tools that function by means of compressed air, or compressed carbon dioxide (CO2), provided by an air compressor or portable cylinders, respectively. These tools have a number of different advantages over their electric counterparts. Firstly, of course, all of the risks associated with the electric aspect of power tools are eliminated, such as electrocution, short-circuiting, sparks, and so on, making air tools overall safer to operate. Their power-to-weight ratio is also higher than that of electric power tools, meaning that the same task can be achieved with a lighter and smaller tool. Air tools are also generally cheaper than power tools, however, the price range of air tools reflects the quality, with the general grade being used in a disposable manner and industrial grade air tools providing a longer lifespan. Despite all these advantages, air tools do require an air compressor or equivalent, as well as pneumatic couplings and pneumatic tubing, to operate. Their applications are endless and vary in accordance with the tool itself.

For example, the Steinel HL Stick Compact Hot Air Tool, available from Mektronics, is compact, as the name suggests, lightweight, ergonomic, easy to use, and ideal for work that requires a high level of precision and detail in heat application, such as model making and crafting.

Bench grinders for better sharpening

Bench grinders are a staple in any serious workshop. They are grinding machines that are fastened to a bench—also known as benchtop tools or machines—that drive abrasive wheels for the purpose of sharpening chisels, drill bits, gouges, and other cutting tools to maximize their efficiency and extend their lifespan. It can also be used to roughly shape metal in preparation for further manipulation, or polish edges and surfaces.

An example of a good bench grinder is the Linishall Heavy-Duty Bench Grinder 250MM, available with optional additions such as a belt and disc grinding attachment, a pedestal stand, and a mitre table.

Drill presses for safe handling

Drill presses are drills that are mounted to a workshop table to provide stability and safety, improve accuracy, increase the speed, and facilitate an increase in the size of the objects with which you may be working. It is an essential item for any workshop, especially for frequent or lengthy projects, as it is easier and less tiring to use than handheld drills, additionally to the aforementioned accuracy and consistency that is provided due to the mounting.

Mektronic’s Garrick Industrial Drill Press 20MM is an excellent choice for anyone wishing to incorporate this indispensable tool into their workshop tools inventory.

Among the countless other tools comprising workshops around the world, these are some of the essentials that will help you achieve your crafting goals.

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