Products & Materials : Tools & Equipment News
Scaffolding Giant Invests in New Generation Cranes

Scaffolding Giant Invests in New Generation Cranes

One the UK’s largest scaffolding suppliers has invested in two Hiab 188B-2 Hi Duo Cranes on a Scania chassis to boost its 70-strong fleet. Generation UK, part of global Altrad Group, has 17 locations across the UK and supplies commercial scaffolding and access solutions to major construction developments. The brand-new

Read More »

Top 3 Uses Of Industrial Protective Coatings and Sealants

Various industries around the globe continue to be affected by the ongoing pandemic. This is why companies are doing their best to survive or at least manage the coronavirus’ impact on their business operation. At this point, organizations need to adapt to change. One of the ways is to transform

Read More »

Atlas Copco takes the factory into the field with smart battery nutrunner range

Delivering safer, faster, more cost-efficient and traceable high torque bolt tightening for critical applications in the energy sector are the key objectives of a new range of cordless smart battery nutrunners, launched by Atlas Copco Tools and Industrial Assembly Solutions. Previously expensive and time-consuming installation and maintenance processes carried out

Read More »

Steps in Working with a Scaffolding for Home Projects

If you are an avid “do-it-yourselfer,” you enjoy working on different home projects and repairs without needing to hire professionals. However, some projects may require you to rent or purchase equipment, such as a Scaffold, to complete your project safely. Here are the steps in making sure that you use the

Read More »

Notable Industry Trends For 60V Power Tools

As is the case in many other industries, the power tools industry is experiencing profound changes owing to the development and advancement of power tool technology. With competition always strong among the industry players in the power tool sector, the onus has been on power tool manufacturers to stay ahead

Read More »

Construction, Innovation and COVID-19

The construction industry in the UK is facing some unprecedented challenges. Whilst that might not be surprising given the global health pandemic that has consumed the planet in recent months, for the UK’s construction industry COVID-19 is just one more burden to bear. With a shrinking skills base, increasingly older

Read More »

What Does An MIG Welder Do?

MIG stands for (metal inert gas) it is also the same when one says GMAW (Gas Metal Arc welding). It is a process in which an electric arc forms between a consumable wire electrode and the workpiece metal, which heats the workpiece metal, causing them to melt and join. You

Read More »

We need your help in the fight against Covid-19

With construction works coming to an end as part of the process to limit the spread of Covid-19, all of us in the demolition and construction sectors have a duty and obligation to the communities that we serve. While the Government is mobilising resources, there are significant shortages for frontline

Read More »
Great Reasons To Get A Cordless Drill

Great Reasons To Get A Cordless Drill

Working in the building design or construction industry requires you to invest in the right tools. Building infrastructures from the ground up is taxing, and doing everything with your bare hands can delay progress, lessen the structural integrity of the building, and even lead to injuries. For people who want

Read More »
Latest Issue
Issue 327 : Apr 2025

Products & Materials : Tools & Equipment News

Transformation unveiled as scaffolding comes down on £5.4m Gosforth Regent Centre apartments

A new look has been unveiled for a Newcastle former office block as scaffolding is removed by Kapex Construction. Eldon House at Gosforth’s Regent Centre is undergoing a £5.37million transformation to redevelop the former vacant office building into 66 luxury apartments. Construction work is three months ahead of schedule and is due to complete in early 2021. Kapex Construction, part of Newcastle-based Morton Group, was appointed by Regent Centre owners Omnia Property Group to deliver its 2nd phase of its residential scheme, with Broadfield Project Management acting as client representative. Construction work started on the Eldon House development, which will create a mix of one- and two-bedroom apartments over 8 floors, in March 2020. The extensive redevelopment project was originally due to complete in Spring 2021 but despite lockdown it is scheduled for completion in early 2021. Work on the scheme involves the complete removal of the existing façade, new cladding of the existing structure, along with thermal upgrades, a complete new MEP installation and internal fit out. It will be the second ‘office to residential’ conversion at the Regent Centre – the first being Northumbria House – and will be available to rent through Omnia Space. The area is known to be popular with students and employees based within the business park. Gary Morton, CEO of The Morton Group, said: “It’s fantastic to see the scaffolding come down on Eldon House and I hope people are pleased with the transformation so far. Work will continue on the development and we’re pleased to be able to deliver this office to residential development three months ahead of schedule. “Our track record in converting concrete frame office blocks into sleek, high quality living spaces is second to none, and we have drawn on our experience gained through the conversion of Eagle Star House into Regents Plaza apartments just 300 metres away.” Dave Lovatt, Commercial Director at Kapex Construction, said: “It’s exciting to see the progress starting to take shape at Eldon House, which will breathe new life into the 1970s office building and provide much needed housing in a highly sought after residential location. “In the past, Eldon House has been home to tenants such as Rolls Royce so it’s exciting to prepare the building for a fresh wave of tenants who will benefit from the close proximity to Gosforth High Street and bus and Metro transport links into Newcastle. It will be a thriving space tailored to modern, active lifestyles.”

Read More »
Scaffolding Giant Invests in New Generation Cranes

Scaffolding Giant Invests in New Generation Cranes

One the UK’s largest scaffolding suppliers has invested in two Hiab 188B-2 Hi Duo Cranes on a Scania chassis to boost its 70-strong fleet. Generation UK, part of global Altrad Group, has 17 locations across the UK and supplies commercial scaffolding and access solutions to major construction developments. The brand-new hi-tech cranes are operated by remote control and are connected with Hiab’s HiConnect technology which tracks real-time data on crane usage and operator performance.  Jamie Whale, national fleet and transport manager for Generation UK said the investment would help the business retain its Silver Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme (FORS) accreditation. “As the UK’s largest supplier of scaffolding we deliver materials to some of the biggest construction sites which have stringent requirements around site safety,” he explained. “Commercial sites require lifting plans from delivery suppliers like us and we often have site-specific guidelines to adhere to, which helps to manage risk and improve health and safety.  “Space can be challenging and we often have a small window to deliver, so we need to make sure we can deliver safely and swiftly; investing in the right equipment helps us to do that. “Our business needs to evidence year on year reductions in our carbon footprint to maintain our Silver FORS accreditation. The HiConnect software which monitors crane usage will play a major role in that.  “The Silver FORS accreditation is a requirement for several of our customers, so I’m really pleased we have a tool which makes it easier for us to evidence our sustainable credentials and continue operating on those sites.  “The platform gives us real-time insights on operator performance and actual crane usage, we fully expect to reduce our fuel emissions over time.” David McDonald, northern key account manager and area sales manager said: “These two cranes are perfectly-suited to Generation UK’s needs. The remote-control operations combined with HiConnect software gives incredible visibility for the operator and the fleet manager. “Jamie explained to us that reducing downtime was a priority for Generation UK. Our ProCare essential service contract combined with HiConnect will make sure trucks and cranes are on the roads for as long as possible.   “HiConnect’s real-time operational data pin points when maintenance is due and our engineers can connect to the crane to trouble shoot any issues ahead of a call out, giving us the opportunity to respond quicker to maintenance and repair needs.  “We know it’s possible that HiConnect can calculate productivity cost savings of over £1,000 per crane for one year based on idling time alone, which I’m confident Generation UK will benefit from.”

Read More »

Top 3 Uses Of Industrial Protective Coatings and Sealants

Various industries around the globe continue to be affected by the ongoing pandemic. This is why companies are doing their best to survive or at least manage the coronavirus’ impact on their business operation. At this point, organizations need to adapt to change. One of the ways is to transform the suite of goods and services they offer to their customers. By adopting technology during these difficult times, many businesses have seen a growth in online sales for their products. However, to ensure quality for the different industries they serve, industrial companies continue to utilize both traditional and modern processes. Industrial Coatings And Sealants For Various Industries For many decades, diverse industries have utilized protective coatings and sealants. Despite the changing requirements and standards, there will always be a use for these industrial products. Here are some of the numerous industries that benefit from high-quality industrial sealants and coatings: Aerospace: Protect the surfaces of aerospace vessels from wear and degradation. Architecture: Fixtures and windows get decorative protection from reflective coatings and paint. Automobile: Cars’ body panels are applied with sealant and coatings to protect against wear and exposure. Construction: Coatings and sealants protect the materials of various structures from improving their durability. Engineering: To enhance durability and performance, mechanical and electronic parts may be coated with protective material. Furniture: Sealants are used to make furniture more stable while coatings add a layer of protection to the surfaces. Industrial: Most coatings, adhesives, sealants, and elastomers are used for industrial and manufacturing operations Marine: In addition to blocking water from seeping inside the ship, industrial sealants prevent leaks and rust on the surfaces of water vessels. Printing: Coatings and sealants are used in the printing industry as well as in the paints and coatings industry Textile: Coatings are utilized to produce patterned fabrics and clothing Protective coatings and sealants fall under the category of CASE materials (coatings, adhesives, sealants, and elastomers). These materials aim to improve the appearance, durability, performance, and resistance of various products, tools, and equipment. Top 3 Uses Of Protective Coatings and Sealants Businesses and organizations that utilize protective coatings and sealants know that these materials are essential in creating top-quality, industry-standard products. These are the top 3 ways industries use coating and sealants: Enhance Performance And Durability One of the most important purposes of coatings and sealants is to improve the material’s performance. A common use for industrial protective coatings is in the manufacturing industry. Manufacturers that utilize metals overcome the disadvantage of working with the material by using protective coatings to prevent rust. It also protects against harsh conditions, corrosion, and impact. The lifespan of products, tools, and machinery pieces is also extended with industrial protective coatings and sealants. The choice of protective coating ultimately depends on the type of surface it’s being applied to. On the other hand, industrial protective sealants are used to effectively bind materials because of their gluey properties. Adhesives typically have greater strength and flexibility than sealants. So, the primary application purpose for both may differ. 2. Add Waterproof Protection In most construction-related applications, sealants’ function is to block sound, heat, or dust from passing through surfaces. Industrial protective sealants also work by preventing fluids and moisture from seeping through various surfaces’ joints or openings. Industrial coatings, on the other hand, are used to protect or enhance the substrate. Sometimes, these chemicals or substances are used as a decorative and protective coating for substrates–the underlying layer where the coating or sealant is applied. Examples of industrial protective coating are those applied to wooden decks and machine parts. Coatings not only protect the surface of various substrates, but it can also change the product’s surface properties. 3. Boost Aesthetic Appeal Aside from the functional purposes of industrial protective coatings, these materials are also used to enhance the products’ aesthetic appeal. For example, lacquers and paints are coatings that enhance the physical appearance of various substrates, like wood, paper, metals, foil, and film. Industrial sealants and coatings protect and improve the performance of materials, making the end-product more appealing, which is very important. Manufacturers should aim to produce durable but aesthetically appealing items. This is where protective coatings and sealants can help. Takeaway No matter how technology or time may change industries’ requirements or processes, protective sealants and coatings continue to be essential materials for the manufacturing or finishing of products. Since coatings and sealants come in many forms, choosing the best one will depend on the application’s purpose and the composition of the substrate.

Read More »

Atlas Copco takes the factory into the field with smart battery nutrunner range

Delivering safer, faster, more cost-efficient and traceable high torque bolt tightening for critical applications in the energy sector are the key objectives of a new range of cordless smart battery nutrunners, launched by Atlas Copco Tools and Industrial Assembly Solutions. Previously expensive and time-consuming installation and maintenance processes carried out using hydraulic wrench methods, on wind turbines for example, have been made much faster and more cost-effective, as a result of Atlas Copco’s proven tensor motor technology, which delivers the world’s most productive output. Enhancing safety and comfort further, the ergonomically optimised SRB HA smart battery nutrunner is the only product of its type on the market equipped with a dual trigger, designed to minimise the risk of finger pinch injury.  The single operator tool has a torque rating of up to 4000Nm and an internal torque transducer for maximum control and reliability.  Clear operator feedback is provided with multi-functional LEDs, displaying OK/NOK status messages based on torque and angle readings. With three models available, the entry level SRB HA Digital version has a ‘Set and Go’ function, so it’s ready for use straight out of the box.  The Smart and Connected models feature an internal WIFI server, allowing the tools to be linked to any mobile device.  This enables torque, angle and batch data collection without the need for additional software.  For the ultimate in functionality and process control, the SRB HA features an accessory bus for a barcode scanner and can also be integrated into overlying systems for live data feed and analysis. Commenting on the launch of its new smart nutrunner range, powered by Lithium-Ion 36V battery technology with charging and health indicators, James McAllister, General Manager, Atlas Copco Tools and Industrial Assembly Solutions, said: “By combining market-leading safety and performance with mobile connectivity, the SRB HA enables operators to take the smart factory into the field, making it the world’s most advanced and productive battery nutrunner.  Being able to control and measure torque in real time with precise accuracy adds significant value to customers operating in challenging environments, as it not only improves safety but also reduces time spent on tasks and saves money.  This frees up operators to work on different applications and we believe some companies could save over £40,000 per year in direct costs alone. “Atlas Copco’s launch of the SRB HA range represents an innovative addition to our portfolio of smart tooling solutions, in pursuit of zero defect assembly and maintenance.  This superior level of traceability and data-driven insight is a real asset in helping companies improve both human and business performance, which is all the more compelling in the current economic climate.”

Read More »

Steps in Working with a Scaffolding for Home Projects

If you are an avid “do-it-yourselfer,” you enjoy working on different home projects and repairs without needing to hire professionals. However, some projects may require you to rent or purchase equipment, such as a Scaffold, to complete your project safely. Here are the steps in making sure that you use the scaffold correctly.  Step 1: Realize the Need to Use Scaffolding When planning to work on home projects that are too high for you to reach, consider using scaffolding instead of ladders. Scaffoldings will give you a stable and wide platform where you can work on. This platform will also allow you to place your tools safely without them falling to the ground. Scaffolding can also save you a lot of time and energy since you do not need to constantly move a ladder when the area you need to work on is already out of reach.  Scaffoldings also have guardrails that prevent you from falling over. However, it is still important not to rely on the guardrail by leaning your full body weight against them. When using scaffoldings, it is better to give an allowance from the guardrail and your body.  The most common Scaffold that you can purchase or hire for home projects consists of 5 ft by 5 ft standard end frames and cross braces, which will make a 7 ft long Scaffold with a working height of 4 to 6 feet. If you need to work at much higher heights, you can combine two scaffolding sets. However, when working on a DIY home project, limit your height to two combined scaffolding heights to ensure stability.  Step 2: Assembling the Frame and Base The most important part of assembling the scaffolding is to set up a solid foundation. The best way to do this is to assemble the base on solid and flat ground. If you need to set up your scaffolding on grass, gravel, or soft material, assemble them on top of 2×10 lumber to prevent the base from sinking. Never use bricks or scrap woods to level your scaffolding base since they may slip and cause accidents. Most scaffolding sets have adjusting screws to level the foundation.  Step 3: Adding the Planks and Guardrails Do not cut costs on your scaffolding purchase or rental by not including the special planks and guardrails that come with the set. Specialized planks have hooks that secure your working platform in place. Please do not attempt to use ordinary wood planks as a working surface since they may not be strong enough or may slip when stepped on. Guard rails may be installed only on the outward-facing side of the Scaffold as long as the side facing the building is within 14 inches away from the wall.  Step 4: Create Your Workstation Become more efficient by setting up a workstation on your scaffolding platform. Please put all your materials and tools in a bucket and raise them using a rope once you are on top of your platform.  Step 5: Scaffolding Accessories and Safety Tips Most scaffolding sets may come with different types of casters that allow you to move the scaffolding without taking it. However, when using casters, it is important to install a horizontal brace between the two outside frames to make the scaffolding sturdier. Never attempt to roll the scaffolding with workers or materials still on top of the planks. Make sure also to lock the casters before climbing the scaffolding. 

Read More »

Notable Industry Trends For 60V Power Tools

As is the case in many other industries, the power tools industry is experiencing profound changes owing to the development and advancement of power tool technology. With competition always strong among the industry players in the power tool sector, the onus has been on power tool manufacturers to stay ahead of the curve in their industry. The introduction of the Durofix 60V DXP range of power tools ensures Durofix stays at the forefront of the various industry-wide trends in the power tools industry. Some of the trends in the power tools industry include: Innovations In Battery Technology The past decade has seen a shift to cordless power tools. Tools such as circular saws, impact drivers, hammer drills, impact wrenches, band saws, and crimpers now have an integrated battery system that powers the tool. This does away with the need for power cords and in the case of pneumatic tools, air cords as well. Consequently, workers in the construction, industrial, automotive, and many other industries can now enjoy a cordless (and safer) work environment. However, the current trend is to go beyond the basic integration of battery packs into power tools. There is a push to improve the power density of the battery packs and enhance the battery management systems, all the while trying to reign in on the notoriously heavy weight of the battery packs without compromising performance and endurance. In the past, improvements on the battery pack front have been driven by changing from nickel-based batteries to lithium-based batteries. However, power tools makers are now forced to innovate further and improve lithium batteries as well. Durofix 60V DXP has been engineered to offer 35% more run time by using advanced Li-ion batteries. The tools draw less current, thereby generating less heat leading to longer run times and longer battery life. Improvements In The Efficiency Of Power Tools While improving the efficiency of the battery pack has taken precedence in the power tools development race, more and more power tool manufacturers have realized there is a benefit to optimizing other areas of their tools. Manufacturers are now engineering power tools that not only last long but perform their function with maximum efficiency. This improves the run time of the power tool while maximizing the power delivery of the tools. Lower Maintenance Cost The maintenance cost of power tools has always been an Achilles heel for the tools. Power tools need regular recalibration, oiling, part replacements, and other repairs. There is a push among power tool manufacturers to design products that are cost-efficient on the maintenance front, thereby lowering the cost of ownership. Improved User Experience Finally, there is a push to improve the user experience of power tools, especially among the new generation of cordless power tools. Naturally, some of the efforts have gone to reducing the weight of the tools. However, there many other areas of improvement that the tools have experienced. These include improving the cooling of the tools, integration of better torque output control units, compacting the tool design, and much more. There has also a push to improve the safety of the tools with a focus on reducing the noise and vibrations generated by the tools. The Durofix 60V DXP range of power tools has taken giant leaps in improving the user experience. The tools feature a compact design, enhanced cooling, and advanced Patented Electronic Torque Control for precise torque control, and many other improvements to the ultimate user experience.

Read More »

Construction, Innovation and COVID-19

The construction industry in the UK is facing some unprecedented challenges. Whilst that might not be surprising given the global health pandemic that has consumed the planet in recent months, for the UK’s construction industry COVID-19 is just one more burden to bear. With a shrinking skills base, increasingly older workers and the ongoing uncertainty surrounding Brexit, is it really any wonder that the construction industry is weathering out its worst slump in living memory? Coronavirus is not going to disappear anytime soon and it is yet another invisible risk to front line workers in the building trade. Whilst the physical risks of the job are often abundantly clear, other personal and mental risks can be harder to spot. For example, suicide rates in the UK construction industry are an astonishing ten times higher than the national average, with the pressures of COVID-19 presenting additional dangers and further worsening the crisis. In these somewhat tumultuous times, the UK government has reiterated on multiple occasions how keen they are to reignite the construction, housing and infrastructure industries as soon as practically possible. However, it would be nonsensical and indeed dangerous for the government to overlook the fact that workers in the construction industry are among those worst affected by the virus and all of its implications. According to the Office of National Statistics, in a study of 2,500 deaths, builders were identified as most at risk of death from COVID-19, alongside taxi drivers, security guards and public transport drivers. Whilst the construction industry needs to get back on its feet sooner rather than later, that revival simply cannot come at the cost of so many lives. Well accustomed to spearheading pioneering solutions under pressure, the construction industry is one of the most innovative employment sectors in the UK. With worker safety consistently paramount anyway, Coronavirus is further complicating matters by limiting levels of interaction between workers on site. One of the key methods in tackling COVID-19 head on is through tracking technologies. In addition to this, Bluetooth device tags could also be making their way onto construction sites across the country, attached to ID badges or pieces of equipment. The hope being that these tags and trackers would be able to alert workers and trigger warnings when too many people were in one vicinity at a time, as well as monitoring worker interactions. Understanding these interactions could play a pivotal part in reducing the level of face to face contact actually required on each construction project. A number of existing innovations in the construction sector could be advantageous in tackling COVID-19 and its associated risks. Off site and modular construction techniques could help to facilitate the deployment of prefabricated critical care facilities. This would, in turn, increase the capacity of the healthcare industry, which has been under immense additional pressures; one of the largest challenges the pandemic has inflicted upon the UK and many other countries thus far.  It is important to note that in order for something to be an innovative solution, it does not necessarily need to be newly invented. Often, research and developmental work focuses on progressing existing ideologies and procedures. Establishing ways for employees to interact with one another safely, or limiting their need to do so entirely could be highly beneficial long after the threat of COVID-19 dissipates. New processes and procedures to ensure all surfaces and tools are safe for workers are key in minimizing the risks facing people in the construction sector on a daily basis. In addition to this, access to Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is also essential, raising additional challenges to be solved with provision and distribution. “Innovative ideas always present some sort of risk, which is why it is vital to understand and utilise all of the support available,” says Sarah Collins, Head of R&D at RIFT Research & Development. “About more than just problem solving, financial incentives such as R&D tax credits work to encourage long term success, rather than merely surviving a business issue or challenge. The main objective is to make innovation less of a risk and more productive, with the hope that benefits of such actions will extend beyond any one sector or individual firm. Innovation can help everyone, and that is only becoming more apparent in the wake of COVID-19, which is why an emphasis on R&D financials in sectors like construction or engineering is more important now than ever.”

Read More »

What Does An MIG Welder Do?

MIG stands for (metal inert gas) it is also the same when one says GMAW (Gas Metal Arc welding). It is a process in which an electric arc forms between a consumable wire electrode and the workpiece metal, which heats the workpiece metal, causing them to melt and join. You can read more about this here.  Method of metal transfer does not just include one but there are four primary methods. One is the GMAW or MIG called globular, short-circuiting, pulsed-spray and spray. Each one has its advantages and limitations when used.  MIG, on the other hand, is a technique that is versatile and suitable for both thick and thin sheets. Most welders use this process as it is very flexible working on different sheets. It is widely used in different industries and sectors as it accounts for more than 50% of almost all weld metal that is deposited. Its flexibility, suitability, and deposition rates have more advantage for various mental tasks. 4 Types of Welding Processes MIG/Metal Inert Gas Welding This machine works to fill in the spot that joins two metals together. Using this process, the welder doesn’t need to change the electrodes in between their welding tasks. The welder just fills in the joint that is being welded and continue to the next.  There are four main parts of a MIG welding machine. First, the MIG welding power supply that provides the electricity to generate heat. Next, is the wire feed system that usually feeds the wire from the spool to the weld joint. There’s also this handle with a trigger that controls the wire feeder that is feeding the wire on the spool into the weld joint. Lastly, is the shielding gas-guards which are the welder’s weld from the air. MIG works best with sheet metals.  TIG Welding-Tungsten Inert Gas Welding  This is also known as Heliarc welding for retired or older welders as this is a manual welding process that is used before. They differ in the way the arc is generated and how the filler metal is filled in or brought in. This is a tougher process to learn but this is also versatile when a welder is dealing with different materials. Based on the noted site, the welder needs to use one hand to hold the torch that generates the arc and their other hand to add the filler metal towards the weld joint. This process is effective and will produce high-quality results as it takes time and can be used for smaller welds since it is more precise.  Stick Welding: Shielded Metal Arc Welding  This process includes, of course, an item in stick form. The electrode on this process that uses the metal comes in a stick form. Electricity is used here to melt a rod, filler or stick that can melt both the metal joint and electrode at one time to bring these 2 metal pieces together while filling the joint with the metal filler simultaneously. Usually used for pipelines, auto repairs, steel construction, and most home steelworks since it is low cost.  Flux Cored Arc Welding This one uses an arc between the consumable electrode and the weld pool with the shielding from the flux that is usually found inside the tubular electrode. An extra shield may or may not be used from a gas supply. This process penetrates well into the base of your works. This is can also be used in indoor and outdoor applications. Mostly for maintenance work, production/fabrication and construction work.  Whatever process is chosen is up to the welder and will be decided depending on what work needs to be done. You can explore websites like http://www.weldingmachinereviews.com to find out more information. Top 5 Skills of a Welder First and foremost is attention to detail, welding steelworks and the like needs to have good eyes for their work. To achieve the design and framing of each work, a welder should be skilled in making clean, accurate lines and cuts. Welders should always maintain focus and a good eye towards what they are working on to achieve their goals or final result. Next is dexterity, not everyone has been gifted with skilled hands. Each person is always good at something but not all the time one has a skillful hand. Good dexterity is being able to coordinate with your fingers and hands as well as one’s hand-eye coordination to finish a single welding task. Third, physically fit and good physical abilities. Of course, a welder should be physically healthy in performing welding tasks. Good eyesight, not too skinny and not too fast so you can hang on buildings, carry or lift steel (as you know metal pieces are very heavy), move freely and with accuracy. Quick or fast Learner, welders should always know the do’s and don’t of their job. They also need to keep up with the latest machines and be able to learn how to use them in a very effective and skilled way. They ought to have a sound understanding of their safety and others when performing the said task. Lastly, stamina and strength. Yes, this is very important as well because welders are always under heat and pressure from their machines as well as the surrounding areas where they usually work. A welder does not work in an office where there is air conditioning, instead, they work while hanging at the side of the building, on the rooftop, outside an establishment, or even hanging down by a bridge. One can never tell where and what they need to be prepared for when welding. They even have to carry and lift heavy machines or steel materials while they work. 

Read More »

We need your help in the fight against Covid-19

With construction works coming to an end as part of the process to limit the spread of Covid-19, all of us in the demolition and construction sectors have a duty and obligation to the communities that we serve. While the Government is mobilising resources, there are significant shortages for frontline staff in the NHS, GP practices and social care sectors. We are therefore encouraging the demolition and wider construction sector to retain a base stock of PPE, and make the rest available to those frontline services who need it far more than we do. You have the ability to save lives by doing so, no donation is too small! Cantillon and DeGroup are pulling together their resources to reach out to our competitors, peers and partners to seek quantities of excess masks, overalls, glasses and gloves. We have contacts within the NHS and Emergency Services who have already said this equipment would be gratefully received. They may use it themselves or indeed direct us to the Vulnerable Groups. The fact is, it can do a lot of good, but not while it sits on our shelves gathering dust. This is a free-of-charge donation, it’s giving back in an hour of real need. We can manage collection and distribution and your contribution will make a huge difference and potentially save many lives. – Paul Cluskey, Managing Director, Cantillon Please visit our Contractors Appeal Website for more information.  You can also donate money via our JustGiving page

Read More »
Great Reasons To Get A Cordless Drill

Great Reasons To Get A Cordless Drill

Working in the building design or construction industry requires you to invest in the right tools. Building infrastructures from the ground up is taxing, and doing everything with your bare hands can delay progress, lessen the structural integrity of the building, and even lead to injuries. For people who want to create a career in this industry or engage in more DIY activities at home, is a must-have. A cordless drill, as highlighted in this website https://cordlessdrillguide.com, is a smart investment because it can make your life easier as a handyman. This tool can also improve the quality of your projects and lessen your work time. A cordless drill is important for different purposes. Here are some great reasons why you should get one as soon as possible: 1. Convenience Completing projects at home or construction will require time and effort. The more extensive the project is, the more resources you’ll have to invest in it. Fortunately, owning a cordless drill can make tasks lighter. This equipment is more lightweight than corded drills, making it easier for you to carry it around. Cordless drills are also very convenient because you won’t have to look for power outlets just to use it. This will give you the ability to use the equipment in different locations. Since it’s cordless, you also don’t have to worry about its wires and how these can tangle up with your other equipment. Cordless drills are more compact and now come in a wide variety of comfortable designs. Having these options allows you to choose a cordless drill that perfectly suits your grip and desired level of comfort. A tool that meets all of your preferences will help you work faster. This is especially important for new or inexperienced handymen. 2. Safety Working on construction or DIY projects at home can be very rewarding, but at the same time, it can also pose serious safety risks. Major home renovation projects, like turning your shed into a home office, can be dangerous as you’ll use different kinds of equipment. You can complete bigger projects without compromising your safety when you use a cordless drill. Because this equipment works using lithium batteries, you won’t have to worry about suffering from accidents and injuries from tripping over the cables. The absence of these cables will also decrease your susceptibility to any electrical problems, as well. 3. Power You’ll have to work with different materials in order to complete projects. While some of these materials are easy to work with, some can be very challenging and will require very specific tools to get the job done, like working with concrete, which is a hard material that resembles the durability of stones. Cordless drills are very powerful tools that can help you work with concrete. This tool utilizes slight vibrations and a strong rotating action so you can easily drive bolts into concrete. With this feature, you can bolt down any type of furniture or screw into concrete without worrying about getting injured or spending hours just to complete a minor task. 4. Replaces Screwdrivers Although small, a screwdriver is one of the most essential tools every handyman should have. A screwdriver is a versatile tool because it allows you to install and remove different types of screws. However, because a screwdriver is a manual tool, using it for big projects can take up a lot of time and energy. You’ll have to manually turn its handle for the tool to serve its purpose. If you want to enjoy the features of a screwdriver minus the manual turning, you should definitely get a cordless drill. By using a screw tip, you can use a cordless drill to attach and assemble a screw into another material. You just have to flip the switch and let the cordless drill do all the work for you. With a cordless drill, you can install and remove more screws in less time and minimal effort! Know What To Buy A lot of people use cordless drills, which is why you can expect to find this tool in different makes and models today. For you to avoid making costly mistakes when buying a cordless drill, determine how you’re going to use the tool and how you want it to feel in your grip. The brand and any additional features are also important considerations. When you know what to look for in a cordless drill, you can easily narrow down your options and buy one that can meet your expectations. 

Read More »