Power tools are undergoing major changes. Many exciting trends and innovations are emerging, from improvements in battery technology, connectivity, ergonomics, and dust control to new built-in features.
FREMONT, CA: Significant shifts are occurring in power tools. New trends and developments are emerging, including improved battery technology, connection, and ergonomics, as well as new built-in functions such as improved dust management. Tool manufacturers are concentrating on creating intuitive instruments with intelligent technologies for enhanced performance and safety. Here are some trends now influencing the power tool market.
Advancement in cordless battery technology
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The switch from nickel-based to lithium-ion batteries significantly enhanced the performance of cordless battery packs. It brought crucial benefits such as lighter, more compact designs and longer-lasting charges. Historically, the cost of lithium-ion batteries has restricted their use to more expensive cordless tools. Nevertheless, lithium-ion battery prices have dropped dramatically during the past decade, resulting in the broader acceptance of cordless tools. Due to their usage of metals with low toxicity, increased energy density, and low self-discharge rates, lithium-ion batteries are presently the most popular source of power for a range of power equipment. As lithium-ion battery technology progresses, stacked battery cells are an emerging novelty. Compared to conventional lithium-ion batteries, stacked pouches provide greater power, faster charging rates, and longer run times.
Enhancing Safety and Ergonomics
According to FacilitiesNet, manufacturers emphasize ergonomic improvements such as anti-vibration technology, user-friendly controls, comfort handles, and more compact and lightweight designs to make power tools safer, easier, and more comfortable. Safety innovations such as onboard dust reduction (DR) systems and active torque control (ATC) systems assist in collecting dust containing hazardous silica. At the same time, ATC prevents injuries by stopping drill rotation when a bit jams. Additional safety features on tools include immediately shutting down equipment, such as grinders, if the user moves out of position in any direction.
Sustainability
Nationally, manufacturers continue to enhance their environmental initiatives. Some manufacturers of power tools now provide programs to collect customer batteries at the end of their useful lives to prevent their disposal in landfills and ensure they are recycled appropriately. In 2021, Stanley Black & Decker and Eastman will launch a new line of environmentally friendly power tools produced from recycled single-use plastic bottles and packaged in totally recyclable materials.
Improved Connections
Due to more significant interaction with the Internet of Things, power tools are becoming more sophisticated. Modern power tools are equipped with intelligent technologies, such as Bluetooth connectivity and the ability to connect to smartphone apps for equipment tracking. Tool tracking with tracking tags can aid in the recovery of lost or stolen tools and inventory management. The connection enables the collection of usage statistics and the management of settings via a smartphone application.
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