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Versatile tools save you time and money on the job. For example, RP 342-XL press tool, shown here with the StrutSlayr Strut Shear Head, works with all of the RIDGID press tool accessories.

CUT DOWN TIME ON YOUR JOBSITE

In today’s high-tech world, when people talk about tool timesavers they tend to focus on the latest Bluetooth technology or the newest gadget. Yet, technology is not the only way to cut down time on a jobsite: tools that allow you to work smarter, not harder, can help any professional get to the next jobsite more effectively and efficiently.
Here are a few questions to consider when evaluating the timesaving merits of a tool.

CAN THE TOOL DO MORE THAN ONE JOB?

Anytime you can rely on a tool to perform more than one task, that is a win – you will reach in your toolbox less and have less to haul onto a jobsite. The best tools seem to help you do more with less: less gear, less time, less looking around. For example, some wrenches provide multiple surface wrench sizes on one side and have an open box-end for line nuts. This type of wrench has you covered for straight stops, appliance legs, shower heads, faucet nuts, stool bolts, and more.

ARE YOU MAXIMIZING THE TOOL’S VERSATILITY?

A key factor when saving time and limiting redundancy in your toolbox is to have knowledge of a tool’s full ability. Pressing tools are a good example: Plumbers appreciate press tools because they save time on connections and eliminate the need for soldering. Some press tools can do more than just press pipe connections. For example, RIDGID tools have designed their press tools to be multipurpose. Understanding that no two jobs are created equal, RIDGID tools built the RP 342-XL for them all: its versatile design packs major power and boasts the widest range of applications of any press tool. It can press 1/2” to 4” copper, stainless steel, and carbon steel pipe and 1/2” to 2” PEX—in less than 10 seconds. It is also compatible with the full line of RIDGID Standard 32kN press tool accessories, including the StrutSlayr™ Strut Shear Head, Press Snap™ Soil Pipe Cutter, and all MegaPress jaws.

➡ STRUTSLAYR tool is designed to mechanically shear steel strut channels up to a maximum size of 41 x 41mm, thickness 2.5mm. Compatible with RIDGID 32kN press tools*, the STRUTSLAYR strut cutter offers reduced risk sparking when compared to grinders and chop saws and still manages to produce a clean, consistent cut just by pulling the trigger – a cutting-edge innovation.

HOW RELIABLE ARE THE TOOLS YOU BUY?

Any tool is a timesaver if it is reliable. Think about the tools you have owned the longest. Which tools push through a hard job without breaking? What brand is a one- or two-year tool versus a lifetime of performance? When you are constantly having tools break down and you are investing time and money to replace or repair them, that is a waste.
Buying reliable, proven tools is the best timesaver (and moneymaker). A strong warranty program is nice, but if the tool is always breaking—even if the repairs are free—that downtime will cost you money every time.

ARE YOU BUYING TOOLS FOR TODAY OR TOMORROW?

This question builds on the issue of reliability. Sometimes cost is a hard line that you cannot cross; but when you can, always consider your long-term plans. You might buy a smaller drain cleaner because it costs less. Yet, you know that the larger commercial drain cleaner will allow you to do 10 times as many jobs and build your business in the future.

Which is a better investment? Tool redundancy has its place, but for higher-cost items, it can be a drain on expenses and a sore spot if your small drain cleaner is collecting dust in a warehouse a year from now.

WILL I HAVE TO START FROM SCRATCH WHEN I NEED TO UPGRADE?

When you buy equipment to meet your immediate needs, consider whether there are products designed to complement the equipment as you upgrade. For example, RIDGID reels, imaging cameras, monitors, locators, recorders, and drain cleaning equipment are designed to work together, so setup time is fast and compatibility is a given. Along with faster setup time, purchasing tools that integrate with each other can save you money and minimise downtime for training.
Saving time equals more jobs, and that means more income. There are many ways to adjust your tool inventory so you can work smarter, not harder.

CABLE TOOLS

Should you require technical assistance to select the correct cable crimping or cable cutting tools please contact us.

Thorne & Derrick are Specialist Distributors of cable tools to enable the preparation of all LV MV HV cables prior to the installation of Joints, Terminations & Connectors – this includes Klauke, Cembre, Alroc and Boddingtons cable jointing tools for removal of cable sheath, screen and insulation on 11/33kV (MV) and 66kV/132kV (HV) power cables.

View the complete range of Cable Crimping & Cable Cutting Tools

External URL: https://www.powerandcables.com/work-smarter-not-harder-using-the-most-efficient-ridgid-tools/