Even in the era of automation, certain operations require the touch of the human hand. That is what makes hand tools an essential inclusion in the manufacturer’s arsenal.
By Baishakhi Dutta
Manufacturing involves complex operations performed with the help of automated devices. At the end of all such operations, what gets delivered is a crude version of the product, and the finesse is provided only with the manual touch-up. This makes hand tools a small but inevitable part of the manufacturing floor. Advances in technology and upgraded processes have improved these hand tools considerably. In this article, we look at the latest hand tools available, and the different factors that influence purchase decisions.
Hand tools are being upgraded
Sometimes, the use of automated devices in certain specific operations backfires, making the production process lengthier since errors introduced by the automation have to be corrected. Hand tools have to be used then, for a quicker and more accurate outcome.
Apart from manufacturing, hand tools play a major role in troubleshooting and fixing. In case a device that cannot be taken offline malfunctions, or if an electronic device used in the field requires to be fixed, handheld tools are the perfect solution.
However, if hand tools are not used with proper care, they can create unsafe situations. Physical injuries as well as non-optimal production are possible outcomes. These can result in major losses by adversely affecting the workforce, financial losses, longer time-to-market, and damage to the overall brand image. Therefore, hand tools are being upgraded continuously.
A significant trend in the latest generation of hand tools is insulation with rubber or plastic materials. Use of such materials prevents injuries, apart from improving the grip and enhancing ease-of-use. Today, tools like drills, tweezers, pocket knives, wire strippers and pliers are being insulated with these materials. The specifications of a genuine insulated hand tool are the international 10,000-volt rating symbol, as well as compliance with IEC 60900 and ASTM F1505 standards. Every insulated tool is tested at 10,000 volts for ensuring proper insulation. Plastico is a brand that offers a number of tool coating services.
Multi-functionality is another major advancement in the hand tools domain. Multi-bit screwdrivers are very popular in the market. They can be used in two ways—by either storing multiple bits in their base, which can be snapped on magnetically when needed, or by using a slide system.
Consistent market demand is driving hand tool manufacturers towards innovation.
The investment
There is no hard and fast figure regarding what a business has to set aside for investing in hand tools. Industry experts say that the investment will depend on many factors, including the scale of business, average volume of production, expected time-to-market and affordability. A larger scale of production may require more hand tools, leading to higher investments.
Picking the right tool and maintaining it
Each tool is designed for a specific need. That’s why you’ll find screwdrivers with various lengths and tip styles, and pliers with different head shapes. Proper care and maintenance can make quality professional hand tools last many years. Soldering tips should be kept clean and well tinned. Cutting tools like knives, pliers, cable cutters, etc, should be kept sharp. Tools need to be well lubricated for improved longevity. Users must follow additional maintenance instructions properly, if any.
How to choose the right product
The quality of the tools should be the primary consideration during purchase – no compromise should be made in this aspect. Inferior quality will result in erroneous end products and longer time-to-market. Tools from reliable brands may cost more, but the expense is justified because of better tool quality.
Good practices should be followed to ensure safe usage of hand tools. Even the smallest devices can cause injuries. Serious damage, cuts and bruises can happen due to the improper use and lack of maintenance of these tools. Most tools today are power-operated, requiring a higher degree of caution while using them.
| A few of the latest products available in the market |
| Product Flat nose pliers Features: The new 542e flat nose pliers from Weller have fine jaws and precise edges; so they are highly suitable for gripping flat workpieces. The pliers have a reflection-free surface and are ESD safe. Contact: www.weller.de |
| Product HAKKO FT 801 thermal wire stripper Features: The HAKKO FT 801 is a compact thermal wire stripper. It is used to strip electrical insulation from wires, and removes insulation very cleanly even from PTFE components. It easily cuts insulation of single wires, and has a standard HAKKO FT 8002 handpiece. It has three interchangeable blades that allow working with wires of different diameters. The maximum wire diameter supported is 12mm. This tool has a ‘power save’ mode, which cuts power to the blades by 50 per cent when the handpiece is placed in the holder. It enables various temperature settings, depending on the material of the wire insulation. Contact: www.sumitron.com |
| Product Precision pen oiler with aluminium body Features: This precision, pocket pen type oiler is used for clock repair, tools, office machines, etc. It dispenses precise amounts of lubricant in the tightest of spots. It has a high-grade aluminium barrel, pocket clip and spill-proof cover. This product can be easily stored in a pocket or any tool box. Contact: www.cmlsupply.com |
| Product Vacuum suction pen Features: The new vacuum suction pen is primarily used for picking and placing small parts and components during electronics assembly and rework. It is a manually operated vacuum that comes with three pads. The product is ESD safe. The 3mm (1/8”) pad holds a 3g load, the 6mm (1/4”) pad holds a 18g load, and the 10mm (3/8”) pad holds a 40g load. Contact: www.cmlsupply.com |
