Redefining commitment to plumbing contractors Zurn Industries, LLC is pleased to announce the PRO Partner Program. This exclusive service connects certified plumbing and installation contractors with wide-ranging commercial businesses. Zurn PRO Partners will gain member-only access to resources, training, and tools, on top of Zurn co-branded marketing materials to reach current and prospective customers. “Many Read more
tools
Redefining commitment to plumbing contractors
Zurn Industries, LLC is pleased to announce the PRO Partner Program. This exclusive service connects certified plumbing and installation contractors with wide-ranging commercial businesses. Zurn PRO Partners will gain member-only access to resources, training, and tools, on top of Zurn co-branded marketing materials to reach current and prospective customers.
“Many businesses are looking to update their restrooms to a touchless experience,” says Richard Bledsoe, Zurn Vice President of Sales and Marketing. “Yet, they often don’t know where to start or what solutions would work best for their environments. The PRO Partner Program simplifies every decision and step along the way. Building owners and facility managers are matched with a qualified plumbing contractor in their area. They’re ensured expert advice and installation, on top of Zurn’s industry-leading products and support.”
Plumbing contractors who enroll in the PRO Partner Program will receive product training and education, as well as dedicated sales representatives, customer care team associates, will-call, and product experts. There is no charge or minimum purchase requirements to gain access to the program. Plumbing and installer professionals interested in becoming a PRO Partner can learn more about the program by emailing ProPartner@Zurn.com.
One tool. Any material. Every size. Those are the capabilities of the new RIDGID® RP 342-XL Press Tool. No two jobs are created equal, but the RIDGID RP 342-XL Press Tool is built for them all: Its lightweight design packs major power and boasts the widest range of applications of any press tool. Now you Read more
One tool. Any material. Every size. Those are the capabilities of the new RIDGID® RP 342-XL Press Tool.
No two jobs are created equal, but the RIDGID RP 342-XL Press Tool is built for them all: Its lightweight design packs major power and boasts the widest range of applications of any press tool. Now you can press 1⁄2” to 4” copper, stainless steel and carbon steel pipe, and 1⁄2” to 2” PEX pipe – in under 12 seconds and all with one tool.
The lightweight RP 342-XL features QuickSwitchTM technology to quickly switch from Standard to Extended 32kN applications to press 2 1⁄2” to 4” carbon steel. Adding to the tool’s versatility and usefulness on the job, the lightweight RP 342-XL is compatible with the RIDGID full line of Standard 32kN Press Tool accessories, including the StrutSlayrTM Strut Shear Head, Press SnapTM Soil Pipe Cutter and all MegaPress jaws.
“RIDGID has been the industry leader in press technology for decades and our latest innovation, the RP 342- XL Press Tool, continues to set us apart,” said Michael Provenzano, Global Product Manager for Press Connections at RIDGID. “The RP 342-XL offers maximum versatility in all types of materials and sizes that can be pressed with one tool.”
The RP 342-XL is backed by the industry’s leading warranty, and also offers the lowest initial investment for contractors whose goal is to press up to 4” copper, stainless steel and carbon steel pipe.
Emerson’s professional tools business, which includes RIDGID as well as the Greenlee and Klauke brands, provides the industry’s broadest portfolio of advanced, reliable tools and technologies for the mechanical, electrical and plumbing trades globally. Visit emerson.com/professionaltools for more information.
Now Clean 3 to 6-inch Pipe Up to 125 Feet; Wall-to-wall clean with capabilities of simultaneous pipe inspection RIDGID® is giving plumbers even more cleaning power and diagnostic capabilities in large-scale commercial or residential jobs with the addition of the K9-306 to its line of FlexShaftTM Drain Cleaning Machines. Designed to clean 3 to 6-inch diameter Read more
Now Clean 3 to 6-inch Pipe Up to 125 Feet; Wall-to-wall clean with capabilities of simultaneous pipe inspection
RIDGID® is giving plumbers even more cleaning power and diagnostic capabilities in large-scale commercial or residential jobs with the addition of the K9-306 to its line of FlexShaftTM Drain Cleaning Machines. Designed to clean 3 to 6-inch diameter drain lines up to 125 feet, the K9-306 clears blockages with astonishing speed, while the ability to inspect with a camera simultaneously maximizes efficiency and lets you literally complete two jobs at once.
Purpose-built for the professional, the K9-306 quickly clears grease buildup, roots and heavy scale in larger pipes. It features a professional 1.5 HP internal universal motor for maximum power and longevity; a fully enclosed drum to minimize setup and cleanup time; and a retractable handle with multiple wheels and grab points to make loading, unloading, transporting and storage easy.
“The positive response to our first two RIDGID FlexShaft Drain Cleaning Machines last year was overwhelming, with contractors wanting a similar product to clear wider and longer lines. The RIDGID K9-306 FlexShaft Drain Cleaning Machine is the answer to that request,” said Tim Dunphy, marketing director, Global Underground Technologies, RIDGID. “With the K9-306’s ability to clean wider pipes and reach up to 125 feet, it lets contractors clean larger lines all the way out to the main.”
The K9-306 has the highest capacity of the RIDGID FlexShaft machine models; each utilizes various chain knockers that are spun at high speeds and expand to quickly clear the entire circumference of a pipe for a more thorough and longer lasting wall-to-wall clean. The flexible, fully enclosed nylon-sheathed cable can be easily wiped clean as it is pulled from the line. It also eliminates splatter, cutting down on jobsite cross- contamination.
“Our range of plain and carbide tipped chain knockers for the K9-102 and K9-204 models have proven their worth in the field, and pros have told us how much they value the cleaning power they offer, particularly when getting into grease and scale,” Dunphy said. “When designing the K9-306, we also continued to innovate and expand our chain knocker lineup, adding a new option featuring a carbide tipped penetrating head. These new chain knockers will be available for all FlexShaft models and will help the pro more efficiently engage and clear tough full line blockages.”
“As municipalities deal with older pipe lines and the tough roots of established vegetation, the K9-306’s ability to power through 3 to 6-inch diameter pipes will be a must-have for contractors today. Alongside the proven performance of our K9-102 and K9-204 models, it’s a great addition to our FlexShaft machine line,” said Wyatt Kilmartin, vice president and general manager, Global Underground Technologies, RIDGID.
FlexShaft machines are backed by the RIDGID Full Lifetime Warranty.
To purchase or learn more about FlexShaft machines or other drain cleaning solutions, contact your local
distributor for an in-person demo, visit RIDGID.com, or call toll-free: 1-800-4RIDGID.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-jmEAKTY4VY It has to be one of the best kept secrets in the tool industry. Way back in June at its annual NPS event, Milwaukee Tool announced its game-changing MX Fuel Equipment System tool platform. Attendees were introduced to these innovative tools in setting that would make AREA 51 people jealous. Fast-forward six months Read more
It has to be one of the best kept secrets in the tool industry. Way back in June at its annual NPS event, Milwaukee Tool announced its game-changing MX Fuel Equipment System tool platform. Attendees were introduced to these innovative tools in setting that would make AREA 51 people jealous. Fast-forward six months and the company is excited—as are we—to announce the launch of these new tools. The MX Fuel line is just another addition to its already kick ass suite of tools, providing end user solutions on the jobsite.
Mechanical Hub recently talked with Andrew Plowman, VP of Product Management, Milwaukee Tool, to get the scoop on these revolutionary new products.
MECHANICAL HUB: What was the impetus for this new tool line, and how long did this process take from design to launch?
MX FUEL™ Carry-On Power Supply
PLOWMAN: Like everything that Milwaukee does, we started in the field, with users, learning their applications and environments. We spent more than 10,000 hours with users on thousands of jobsites globally and found considerable safety and productivity challenges with some product categories – like gas-powered and AC equipment–due to very limited innovation. From gas headaches to design features that were causing stress on users’ bodies over time, it was clear that today’s equipment wasn’t delivering on user needs. By dramatically reducing the hazards and frustrations of the light equipment that has dominated the marketplace for years, MX FUEL™ will fundamentally change jobsites everywhere.
MECHANICAL HUB: Is the entire suite of tools launching on the same day or are they segmented?
PLOWMAN: The MX FUEL Cut-Off Saw, Breaker, Handheld Core Drill, and Drum Machine will start shipping in February of 2020 in North America. The MX FUEL™ Tower Light will start shipping in Q2 2020 and the MX FUEL™ Carry-On Power Supply will start shipping in Q3 2020. For more up-to-date information, please sign up to receive the latest on MX FUEL™ through our email newsletters. You can sign up here: https://www.milwaukeetool.com/innovations/mx-fuel
The MX FUEL Cut-Off Saw
The MX FUEL™ Equipment System is the output of years of that tireless research and investment in new technology, ground-up development of new batteries, motors, and electronics – all simultaneously created under one roof. Designed to take on the very same gas and AC equipment that contractors have depended on for years, this system eliminates the emissions, and reduces the overall noise, vibration, and frustrations of gas maintenance that have been deemed acceptable on jobsites for decades – and additionally eliminates tripping breakers, voltage drops, and trip hazards. In order to achieve this level of cordless capability, they needed to simultaneously drive ground-up development of all three cordless technologies at once:
The largest and most powerful POWERSTATE Brushless Motor Milwaukee has delivered to-date
Handheld Core Drill
A new realm of REDLINK PLUS electronics design to achieve and manage extremely high power levels for long application durations
MX FUEL™ REDLITHIUM battery packs that utilize the best cells, electronics, and pack construction to support equipment of this size and capability
Much like our M18™ System, which will continue to deliver power tool solutions for contractors, each of the solutions on the MX FUEL™ System are all tied together on a single, compatible platform that will grow with additional solutions over the years to come.
MECHANICAL HUB: I assume part of the impetus was listening to users in the field. Were these tools field tested?
The Hubs’ Eric Aune tests the MX FUEL Handheld Core Drill
PLOWMAN: We are committed to working alongside trade professionals to identify challenges and provide solutions that are unparalleled in enhancing jobsite safety and productivity. Everything we do – every decision we make, every solution we develop – is driven by the user and our proactive research with them to identify their biggest frustrations and provide true solutions. MX FUEL™ went through years of extensive field testing with users.
MECHANICAL HUB: What was your biggest challenge with this overall project?
PLOWMAN: When we determined we could offer true productivity and safety enhancements in the light equipment market, we knew we had immense strengths – such as our leadership in cordless technology and advanced engineering. However, we also couldn’t be cocky. We couldn’t use the same approach here that we do with power tools. Equipment like this is a whole new game with different rules. We had to take the time and years on thousands of jobsites to work with users and understand everything we were getting into. Additionally, life-testing was critical. These equipment solutions must live in the most extreme environments for the long haul. We spent thousands of hours in testing to ensure the MX FUEL™ System stands the test of time.
MECHANICAL HUB: Can you explain how these tools perform under extreme conditions — cold, rain, etc.?
PLOWMAN: As mentioned above, these tools went through extensive life-testing to ensure they can withstand the most extreme jobsite environments for the long haul.
MX FUEL Sewer Drum Machine with POWERTREDZ™
MECHANICAL HUB: Do all tools implement One-Key? How important is data and interconnectivity with tools?
PLOWMAN: Yes. All MX FUEL equipment solutions are equipped with One-Key capability to provide benefits such as tracking, security, and inventory management. As we face an evolving jobsite, it’s important to rethink processes that, while ‘tried and true’ are quickly being eclipsed by more productive digital experiences. Programs like One-Key build visibility into jobs and eliminate the downtime and cost associated with lost or stolen tools and equipment.
MECHANICAL HUB: What’s inside the batteries? Can you talk a bit about the technology?
PLOWMAN:
Voltage:
While the construction industry has traditionally used voltage to communicate the power and capability of cordless power tool platforms, voltage alone is not a good indicator of capability when it comes to light equipment. For example, most would agree that a fork lift has more “power” than a hand-held power tool, but what many people do not realize is that most battery-powered forklifts operate at 48V while there are some handheld power tools at much higher voltages.
Technically, MX FUEL™ runs at 72v, but for the MX FUEL™ Equipment System to deliver on the performance, run-time, and durability needs of the trades, we had to simultaneously develop three Milwaukee-exclusive innovations from the ground-up – the POWERSTATE™ Brushless Motor, REDLINK PLUS™ Intelligence, and the MX FUEL™ REDLITHIUM™ Battery Pack.
These exclusive technologies deliver extreme performance and capability. Here are a few examples:
- The Power to Cut Up To 5” Depth in Reinforced Concrete
- The Power to Break Up To 2 Tons of Concrete
- The Power to Core 6” Holes Through Reinforced Concrete
- The Power to Clear Roots at 200ft
- The Power to Run Aggressive 15A Tools & Equipment
Battery Walkaround:
Patented Connection Interface — Elongated slide-rail design ensures the battery remains securely mounted, withstanding the extreme demands of the toughest equipment applications
MX FUEL™ Breaker
REDLINK™ Intelligence – provides industry-leading communication between the battery, equipment, and chargers ensuring optimum equipment performance, compatibility, and battery life
One-Key compatible
Fully enclosed cell carrier
On-board battery fuel gauge
Water Protection barrier – routes water away from electronics and out of the battery through weep holes
Electronics coatings – protects electronics from water and condensation
Flexible circuitry – increased durability against impacts and vibration
REDLITHIUM Cells – 21700 power cells
5X more rubber overmold – increased rubber in impact zones absorbs shock when the pack is dropped, even while attached to equipment.
Integrated carry handle
MX FUEL™ ROCKET™ Tower Light/Charger
MECHANICAL HUB: How will you be going to market with these tools?
PLOWMAN: MX FUEL™ solutions will be available through our existing Milwaukee distributors. Go to Milwaukeetool.com to find your local dealer.
MECHANICAL HUB: Why these particular set of tools under this platform? And do you expect more tools under the MX platform to be announced?
PLOWMAN: During our jobsite research, we searched for the biggest improvements we could make to overall user safety and productivity. After analyzing the most prevalent pain points, we chose 6 product focuses for the initial launch of MX FUEL™. Each of these products represent applications that have historically been challenging experiences for users due to stagnant equipment innovation and are the first battery-powered solutions of their kind.
Meadville, Pa.—Channellock, Inc. announced the launch of SpeedGrip™, an all-new family of American-made tongue & groove pliers that include a fast-adjusting feature and patent-pending crosshatch teeth. This is the newest product line from CHANNELLOCK. The line of push-button tongue & groove pliers are 100% made and manufactured in the USA with die-forged high carbon U.S Read more
Meadville, Pa.—Channellock, Inc. announced the launch of SpeedGrip™, an all-new family of American-made tongue & groove pliers that include a fast-adjusting feature and patent-pending crosshatch teeth. This is the newest product line from CHANNELLOCK. The line of push-button tongue & groove pliers are 100% made and manufactured in the USA with die-forged high carbon U.S. steel to stand the test of time.
“We heard from our core tradesmen that they wanted fast-action, push-button style pliers from CHANNELLOCK, their trusted brand for pliers,” said Ryan DeArment, vice president of sales and marketing at Channellock, Inc. “We are excited to provide something new and improved for our tradesmen. The adjustment feature on our SpeedGrip™ is unique and brings fresh innovation to our iconic, American-made line of pliers.”
SpeedGrip™ prevents adjustment slippage by locking into strong channels at the push of a button, making it twice as fast with more adjustments than standard tongue & groove pliers. This tool is designed to stay in place until the adjustment button is engaged, preventing the need for constant re-adjustments. Precise, robotic laser heat-treating makes the patent-pending crosshatch teeth more durable, and provides a stronger grip with more points of contact for superior job performance, and the reaming feature on the top of the tool is made for deburring pipes easily. With CHANNELLOCK BLUE no-slip comfort grips, these pliers are designed for ultimate control and ease hand fatigue.
“Our research shows that professional tradesmen value durability and innovation, and are proud to carry tools that are made in America,” added DeArment. “In fact, 60% of consumers say they prefer hand tools made in the USA, but approximately 11% of hand tools at top retailers are actually manufactured in the U.S. We designed SpeedGrip™ to give plumbers, electricians, HVAC specialists and auto mechanics another quality option in their toolbox that adds to their ability to get the job done right.”
SpeedGrip™ is available in three sizes and a combo pack.
• 428X (8”)
• 430®X (10”)
• 440®X (12”)
• GS-IX featuring the 428X (8”) and 430®X (10”)
Available at select retailers nationwide, the SpeedGrip line of pliers is 100% made in the USA and features a limited lifetime warranty.
For more information on CHANNELLOCK products, visit www.channellock.com.