Common power tools
As rechargeable batteries continue to improve in performance and power output, an ever-increasing variety of cordless tools is coming onto the market, including circular saws, planers, and even chainsaws.
Most heavy duty power tools use either 'mains' electricity, or compressed air. Many of the lighter tools, are also available in battery operated 'cordless' models.
Below are some common examples of power tools used in the timber industry.
Mains electricity
Circular saws are useful when you need to take the saw to the timber, which is often the case when the timber is long or heavy, or when it is already fixed into a larger structure. Although they're mostly used for cross cutting, with the correct adjustments you can also rip timber lengthways, and cut grooves and trenches.
Angle grinders are mostly used to cut steel or masonry with a grinding wheel, and are commonly used by maintenance workers in sawmills and manufacturing plants. But they can also be fitted with sanding discs and used to sand large surfaces or places where the clearance above the surface is limited.
Compressed air
Nail guns and staple guns are used extensively by frame and truss makers and other timber manufacturing businesses. In most workshops the air is supplied by a large central air compressor with multiple hoses, but it can be provided by a portable compressor powered by an electric or petrol motor.
Battery (cordless)
Drills are the most common cordless tools in the workplace, because they are generally smaller and consume less power than the heavier tools, so their rechargeable batteries are lightweight and relatively cheap. Most cordless drills now have variable speeds and clutches, and can be used to drive in screws. Some also have a hammer drill function.
Learning Activity
How many different types of power tools do you use? Write up a list of all the power tools you regularly use, naming their brand, size and power source.
Which of these tools is your favourite? Some people get to know a particular tool when they use it all the time, and develop a feel for its balance and responsiveness. Take a photo of your favourite tool using your mobile phone or a digital camera. Send the photo to the other learners in your group, and explain in words what you like most about the tool. You may wish to compare it to other models that are designed to do an equivalent job but just aren't quite the same.