Content area
Full text
Manufacturers look at tool design, future expectations
The HVAC tools of today continue to evolve as the market presents new demands to tool designers. Simple hand tools are reaching new heights with added safety and ergonomic features. Advanced hand and power tools are defining the new rate of speed and efficiency expected on the jobsite. Test equipment is being driven further into the digital age as the lines begin to slowly blur between diagnostics and self-repair. The tool market is changing, and the contractors looking to keep at the forefront of jobsite technology are looking to manufacturers for insight as to the next step their tool arsenal should take.
SPARK-FREE ENVIRONMENTS
Despite the changes in the tool market, some things remain the same. According to Alston Mullins, business development manager, DiversiTech, benefits like more technology, lighter weight, and ease of use still ring true in the tool market. Add safety to this list of tool concepts, and a picture begins to emerge that covers items like the use of mildly flammable A2L refrigerants in the approaching future.
"With the phasing out of R-22, we're seeing new refrigerants come on line that are less of a threat to global warming, but are more flammable," said Mullins. "In order to have a spark-free environment and remain safe working with these new refrigerants, I anticipate the possibility of technicians needing to become certified to work with these flammable refrigerants."
The idea of a spark-free environment provides a future nugget of information for contractors to consider, not only as they train their technicians for the change, but also as they purchase the necessary tools to keep their technicians safe.
Milwaukee Tool is addressing spark-free environments with a different approach to pipe connections.
"Connection technology continues to evolve and grow year over year...