The Manufacturing Outlook

Alex D'souza

To improve productivity and safety, tool manufacturers design easy-to-use tools with smart technology.

Various innovations and trends are emerging, such as better battery technology, connectivity, ergonomic improvements, and dust control. Manufacturers strive to design tools with easy-to-use technology for increased safety and performance.

 In today's power tools industry, several major trends exist.

Cordless battery technology innovation: The change from nickel-based to lithium-ion batteries enabled cordless batteries to perform better and offer advantages such as being lighter, more compact, and longer lasting. Over the last decade, lithium-ion battery prices have dropped significantly, allowing more cordless tools to be adopted. Several power tools now rely on lithium-ion batteries since they use low-toxicity metals, are more energy dense, and self-discharge at a lower rate. One emerging innovation in lithium-ion battery technology is stacked battery cells. Stackable lithium-ion batteries provide more power, faster-charging rates, and longer run times than traditional lithium-ion batteries.

Improved safety and ergonomics: The industry is investing heavily in ergonomic enhancements, such as anti-vibration technology, user-friendly controls, comfort grips, and compact, lightweight design, according to research. To prevent injuries, active torque control (ATC) systems help collect dust containing harmful silica, while onboard dust reduction systems collect dust containing harmful silica. Tools like grinders can also instantly turn off if the operator quickly moves out of position in any direction. 

Sustainability: Manufacturing companies continue strengthening their sustainability efforts across the country. To avoid sending batteries to landfills and ensure they are properly recycled, some power tool manufacturers have programs that collect battery ends at the end of their lives.

Enhanced connectivity: As Internet of Things integration continues to expand, power tools are becoming smarter. Smart technology in today's power tools includes Bluetooth connectivity and the ability to connect to smartphone apps that help track tools and equipment. Managing inventory or locating missing tools is easier by using tracking tags on tools. Users can collect usage data and manage settings via smartphone applications with connectivity.

Brushless motors and beyond: Many major tool manufacturers have released brushless motor tools in recent years. A capacitor creates a charge by repeatedly contacting the rotor with conductors. This updated technology eliminates friction between the conductors, typically brushes. Motors last longer because of friction and heat, with reduced noise production. Although they are more expensive than traditional brushed motors, users must weigh those costs against the benefits they provide.

It is impossible to predict the future, but by keeping up with the latest advances in power tool technology and materials, you can choose safe, ergonomic, and productive tools.