The Multi-Max’s compact design provides access in tight areas while the ergonomic grip allows for comfort and balanced control. A separate on/off switch lets users maintain a previously selected speed setting from a range of 10,000 to 21,000 oscillations per minute after the tool has been turned off. A soft-start feature minimizes abrupt starts and provides a feeling of control as the tool ramps up to the desired speed. Electronic feedback provides consistent speed through the toughest applications. The Multi-Max makes tough tasks look effortless.

Multi-Max accessories are made to last. The Dremel design team scoured the globe to find vendors who could produce high-quality accessories out of the best materials meeting our design and performance standards. Most of these accessories are designed to conform to their innovative QuickFit™ system, which allows for accessory changes twice as fast as competitive models. Dremel developed unique scraper blades that not only contain scraping technology on the front of the blade, but on both sides as well. The Multimax grout removal blades contain unique holes that produce less vibration and weigh less, but maintain the blades’ structural integrity.  BUY THIS NOW for $99!

Rumblemodo.. . The stats.

No Load Speed and Power: DW717  -  4000RPM @ 15 amps.   Kapex  -  3400RPM @ 13 amps. +++Advantage DeWalt.

Arbor: DW717  -  5/8″.  Kapex  -  30mm.  Having a standard sized arbor means you don’t have to buy special blades. +++Advantage DeWalt.

Bevel & Miter: DW717  -  Bevel 48º each way. Miter 60º Left/52º Right.   Kapex  -  Bevel 47º each  way. Miter 60º Left/ 50º Right.  +++Advantage DeWalt.

Max Depth (tall): DW717  -  6″.  Kapex  -  4-3/4″.  +++Advantage DeWalt.

Max Width at 90º: DW717 – 14″.   Kapex  -  12″.  +++Advantage DeWalt.

Max Width at 45º: DW717 – 12” using back fence design.   Kapex  -  8-1/4″.  +++Advantage DeWalt.

Warranty: DW717 – 90 day Satisfaction / 3 year limited.  Kapex  -  30 day Satisfaction / 3 year limited (with registration).  +++Advantage Dewalt.

Cost: DW717 – $380-$500.  Kapex  -  $1300 (MAP priced).  +++Advantage DeWalt.

The Score: DeWalt 8… Festool 0… Its a shutout. Now I open the floor to the Festool Fanboys and Paid Guerilla Marketers but anyone with a brain can see that the DW717 owns the Kapex.

The new Greenlee ETS12 is a small lightweight battery-powered tool for cutting a wide variety of mild steel products. Think of it as a battery-powered bolt cutter. It can be used to cut bolts, threaded rod, solid hasp and cable hasp one-time locks, shipping container seals, and many other items. The ETS12 cuts fast. It only takes about 4 to 5 seconds per cut, and when the cut is complete, the ETS12 automatically retracts to be ready for the next cut.

The case is complicated, involving several companies spread throughout North America. It’s important to note, that in February the U.S. Patent Office countered A123′s challenge of one patent meaning that A123 is in clear violation. Recently DeWALT was ordered to stop selling the 36v line. However I bet there are a few Distributors out there that will still sell them to you (assuming they are in stock). If the patent office also upholds the other patent, then Black & Decker will have little legal ammunition left to fight with, and the case should be wrapping up by spring of next year. We will keep you updated.

Black & Decker Sued Over Batteries

As reported by the Baltimore Sun on 09/20/06

Black & Decker Corp. faces a patent-infringement suit over the batteries used in its new 36-volt line of DeWalt-brand power tools.

In the lawsuit, the University of Texas and its board of regents claim the lithium ion technology that powers Black & Decker’s new cordless line of hammerdrills, circular saws and rotary hammers infringes on two patents held by the school.

The suit, filed Sept. 11 at the federal District Court in Dallas, asks the court to prevent Black & Decker from selling its 36-volt line with the batteries in question.

“Rechargeable lithium ion batteries are the world’s next generation of electrical power sources, representing billions of dollars in potential sales,” the plaintiffs said in the filing.

Lithium ion batteries power cell phones, cameras and laptops as well as hybrid electric cars.

The work behind the two patents at the center of the suit was largely done by John Goodenough, a University of Texas professor in the school’s mechanical engineering department. He did not return a call yesterday seeking comment.

According to the lawsuit, Goodenough and his staff began researching lithium metal phosphate battery technology in 1994 and received two patents, in 1999 and 2003.

The school licensed its version of the technology exclusively to Hydro-Quebec, a Canadian utilities company in Montreal that also is a plaintiff.

Black & Decker’s batteries were developed by Watertown, Mass.-based A123 Systems Inc., a Massachusetts Institute of Technology spinoff, and manufactured by China BAK Battery Inc. of Beijing. Both companies are named as co-defendants.

The suit contends that A123 “spiked” the school’s patented technology with other metals including niobium, magnesium and manganese, and called the technology its own. The University of Texas and Hydro-Quebec are asking for a jury trial and seek unspecified damages, as well as reimbursement of court fees.

“We believe this lawsuit is without merit and will defend our position vigorously,” said Keith Watson, spokesman for A123 Systems, in an e-mailed statement.

In April, A123 Systems filed a pre-emptive lawsuit against Hydro-Quebec, asking a judge to invalidate the two patents. A123 said in the filing that Hydro-Quebec had threatened to sue A123 if it began selling its batteries, and asked the court to “resolve the legal and factual questions raised by HQ and to afford relief from the uncertainty and controversy which HQ’s accusations have precipitated.”

No decision has been reached in that case.

Meanwhile, the DeWalt 36-volt line hit store shelves in June and is expected to gross $50 million in sales this year, Black & Decker Chief Financial Officer Michael D. Mangan said during a second-quarter conference call. He said the line had posted $20 million in sales during the second quarter, which ended June 30.

The filing of the lawsuits does not prevent Black & Decker from continuing to sell the 36-volt line, spokesman Roger A. Young said yesterday. “We do believe A123′s position is correct, and we believe we will prevail in the litigation,” Young said.

Several analysts reached yesterday said they were unaware of the suits. Bentley Offutt, who covers the stock for his Cockeysville-based investment research firm Offutt Securities Inc., said he isn’t overly concerned about the suit.

“Historically, Black & Decker has done a good job defending itself in patent disputes,” he said.

Black & Decker stock closed down 56 cents yesterday at $80.09 on the New York Stock Exchange.

First are 2 videos of the cutter… well cutting.

LESS THAN 4 SECONDS!!! The next video is a first time user, once he stops the ACR from shaking it rips through fast.. .

Next we have one of the jaw mechanism in action, in cutting mode the jaw spins 500 rpm. My phone captures video at probably 12 fps, so the video doesn’t do it justice. This is a very cool little tool and for anyone that cuts a lot of copper tubing (cough, nephew Stew, cough) this will save you a ton of time. I mean 500 RPM on the cutter head, no way you could use a standard tube cutter and cut even 1/10th of what you can cut with this. Check it out.. ..

So this will be my last post on the M12 stuff for a while. But I got this video while our rep was doing some training and I thought I’d share it. I think that Milwaukee is really positioning themselves nicely with the new M12 Lithium-Ion line. You can add the hackzall, tubing cutter and impact driver to your tool belt for about 6 lbs., thats not bad at all considering the functionality and time savings.

“Even though the housing and construction market is slowing down, power tools still represent a $9 billion industry in North America,” said Dale Haines, senior director of the real estate and construction practice at J.D. Power and Associates. “According to The Freedonia Group, demand for power tools in North America is projected to increase over the next several years, totaling $10.2 billion by 2011. With this growth on the horizon, both consumers and manufacturers of power tools can benefit from understanding what is particularly satisfying to customers.”

Among the ten brands ranked in the study, Ridgid ranks highest in customer satisfaction with a score of 784 on a 1,000-point scale, demonstrating strong performance in all factors that drive customer satisfaction, and performing particularly well in the warranty and price dimensions.

“Ridgid performs consistently well across all aspects of the study and truly differentiates itself in the highly competitive cordless drill/driver market through warranty and price,” said Haines.

DeWalt and Hitachi follow Ridgid in the rankings with scores of 779 and 774, respectively. DeWalt performs particularly well in drill performance and versatility of the battery platform, as well as in ease of use. Hitachi performs particularly well in battery performance.

Milwaukee introduces their new TRUE 12v Lithium Sub-Compact Tools.

Milwaukee is coming out with a true 12v Sub-compact tool series. The series includes a Driver/Drill, Impact Driver, a handy little mini-Recip saw, Flashlight (Incandescent ugh, c’mon guys go LED), Inspection Camera, and probably the coolest new item the Copper Tubing Cutter. I got a hands on with all of these yesterday and I was pretty impressed. Assisted by a 4-pole frameless motor they have plenty of power, these are contractor grade tools. We put these to work and they do a good job. Now this new series uses the new M12 batteries and they are not compatible with the V12 series, this has something to do with the new motors. Not dealing with a can motor is a good enough reason to upgrade batteries to me so it is what it is. The Milwaukee M12 Batteries also feature a “fuel gauge”, since lithium batteries die so fast at the end of their cycle its good to know how much charge you have left before you strap on the stilts or climb the ladder. The best part is that most of these tools come with the red Milwaukee case, of course its plastic but the price point is low enough that I’m surprised they don’t give you a bag.

The lineup includes: (Compiled information from Milwaukee, put in one spot for our loyal blog readers.)

The M12 HACKZALL™ Reciprocating Saw, (Milwaukee 2420-22)

“Milwaukee Electric Tool Corporation introduces a new industry first – the M12 HACKZALL™ Reciprocating Saw, a compact, lightweight saw designed for powerful, versatile cutting in tight spaces for virtually all tradesman as they tackle plumbing, electrical, remodeling and HVAC applications. Featuring a 12V LITHIUM-ION battery, the HACKZALL™ cuts over 80 pieces of 1½” PVC on a single charge. The 2420 delivers a ½” stroke 3,000 times per minute for a smooth yet aggressive cut, and utilizes a keyless QUIK-LOK™ blade clamp to ensure quick and easy blade changes. The lightweight design offers less user fatigue as well as one-handed operation. Compact design makes it easier for users to access tight spaces or awkward angles. The HACKZALL™ features a variable speed trigger that provides increased user control and all-metal gear case and gears that live up to Milwaukee?s legendary durability. Additional features include a Built-in LED Light and Battery Fuel Gauge that displays the remaining run- time. Backed by Milwaukee’s 5-Year tool warranty and 2-Year battery warranty, the 2420-22 comes with two 12V LITHIUM-ION batteries, 30-Minute charger, 2 Hackzall™ blades and carrying case.”

M12 ¼” Hex Impact Driver, (Milwaukee 2450-22)

“Delivering a best-in-class 850-in/lbs. of torque in a compact, lightweight package and weighing less than two and a half pounds, the 2450-22 is powerful enough to drive fasteners up to 75 percent faster and offers up to 2X longer run-time. The quick bit-loading ¼” hex chuck enables bit insertion and release to be done with one hand. Weighing only 2.3 pounds, the compact size and weight allows access to tighter areas and reduces user fatigue. A 12V LITHIUM-ION battery and 0-3,000 IPM provide longer run time and more impacts per minute for optimum performance. Additional features include an battery fuel gauge that displays the remaining run time and a built-in LED light illuminates the work surface for added visibility.”

M12 Copper Tubing Cutter, (Milwaukee 2471-22)

“Milwaukee Electric Tool Corporation introduces the industry’s first M12 Copper Tubing Cutter, specifically designed for cutting copper with the speed and versatility that plumbers, mechanical contractors and remodelers require. With a 12V LITHIUM-ION battery and ultra efficient gearing, the 2471-22 performs over 200 cuts on a single charge. A close quarter rotating head cuts installed copper tubing with as little as 1 1/2″ of clearance. At 500 RPM, the patent pending cutting mechanism cuts copper tubing up to 10X faster than conventional cutters and automatically adjusts diameter to cut through 3/8″ – 1″ copper tubing (1/2″ – 1 1/8″ OD, Type K, L, and M). The inline design offers greater reach and reduced wrist strain in confined spaces. The metal cutting head is corrosion and rust resistant and is sealed for protection from water. Electronic overload protection and uni-body construction provide exceptional durability. Additional features include a battery fuel gauge, which displays the remaining run-time, and a built-in LED work light which illuminates the work surface. Backed by Milwaukee’s 5-Year tool warranty and 2-Year battery warranty, the 2471-22 comes with two 12V LITHIUM-ION batteries, one 30-Minute charger, and a carrying case. The 2471 is also available in a single battery kit; model 2471-21.”

M12 Work light, (Milwaukee 49-24-0145)

“Milwaukee Electric Tool Corporation introduces a new M12 Flashlight designed to provide hands-free light in a compact and lightweight package. Featuring a 90-degree rotating head, the M12 Flashlight allows light to be projected in any direction. The 49-24-0145 utilizes a 12V LITHIUM-ION battery to provide longer run time and features a Xenon incandescent bulb that maximizes brightness of the beam over a specific work area. An integrated magnet provides hands-free use and a lightweight, compact design provides superior durability and portability. The 49-24-0145 is backed by Milwaukee?s five-year tool warranty.”

M12 Digital Inspection Camera, (Milwaukee 2310-21)

“With advanced digital imaging technology and a 2.4″ high-resolution color LCD display, the Digital Inspection Camera provides a crystal clear picture of tough to reach places such as inside pipes, drains and equipment and behind walls. Optimal image quality and control is achieved via an exclusive Image Zoom (2x) feature and LED brightness control. Equipped with a durable, detachable, 3′ water-tight flexible cable and a small camera head, the Digital Inspection Camera fits through holes as small a 3/4″ and gets into, under and around tight spaces. An ergonomic handle, comfortable in any orientation, features up-front power and image controls for true one-handed operation. A power saving, auto shut-off feature preserves battery life.”

M12 Screwdriver, (Milwaukee 2401-22)

“The new Milwaukee Sub-Compact Driver has the power to drive the majority of common small fasteners, and the run-time of full day screw driving without recharging. The compact size allows the users to work in tight places for increased convenience.”

And coming soon a Grinder and Jig Saw.

And since you read all of this I’ll tell you a secret. Starting in October while supplies last, look for sweet rebates and limited edition combo packs with free impact drivers, batteries and more.

Plunge cuts in concrete, a-freakin-mazing.

When I think of cutting block, brick or concrete I think diamond blades. And up until today I thought about big round expensive blades. And the thing about those big round blades is that to cut a square you have a huge overcut and you have to come at it from both sides to reduce the overcut, or you use a percussion tool and chip chunks away. I won’t go into too much detail about the old ways because I want to tell everyone about the NEW way! Diamond CHAINS, yep freakin chains! ICS claims to be the world leader in “Diamond Chain Technology™” (they even have it trademarked).  They have about a dozen different models of chains with names like TwinMAX, ProFORCE, SpeedPRO, PRK and TwinPro with varying grades. Offering plunge cut capability of up to 25″ making perfectly square corners with no overcuts (when using the optional speedhook I presume). Now of course you are going to need one of their special saws. They come in gas powered and hydraulic powered and run with bars from 12″ up to 25″.  You gotta check out their web site, they have video of this beast in action.

This is about as cool as it gets. Who doesn’t love chainsaws? This is a great idea, the tech they put into the chains is pretty cool as well. I wish these guys luck with their product.

Porter Cables new Brushless ROS...A green tool?

A while back when I was at Black and Decker University for a Delta Woodworking class we got to tour the R&D areas. I asked them about brushless motors on tools, they told us something was in the works. And after they cleared it with the higher ups and made us all sign non-disclosure agreements they showed us a prototype sander with a yellow body and a brushless motor. (Since the item is now available I think its okay to talk about it, if its not I’m sure I’ll be getting a letter from their lawyers.) Now here it is a little more than a year later and I see that sander again. This time with a grey body, the Porter Cable 390 Series of 5″ Random Orbit Sanders. Now I wanted to verify that this was that same brushless sander that I had previously seen so I started reading through the marketing literature and they do not reference it as a brushless motor, they reference it as a Duratech Motor. A search of the schematic revealed that there were not brushes on the parts list or shown in the breakdown. So I called up our rep and asked him point blank. And he was able to verify that yes that tool in fact does have a brushless motor! Eureka I’d discovered the truth. Now my next question is, since brushless motors are so efficient can we expect an 18v cordless sander to come from DeWalt soon?

The 390 series low profile sanders are available in 4 options:

*   The Model 390  -  5″ Low Profile Random Orbit Sander w/ Dust Collection and a Hook and Loop Pad
*   The Model 390K  -  5″ Low Profile Random Orbit Sander w/ Dust Collection and a Hook and Loop Pad and a blow molded Kit Box
*   The Model 392  -  5″ Low Profile Random Orbit Sander w/ PSA Pad and a Dust Collection Port.
*   The Model 394  -  5″ Low Profile Random Orbit Sander w/ Dust Collection and a Pressure Sensitive Adhesive (PSA) Pad

But here are some of the specs and features on that tool culled from various sources: The 5″ Low Profile Random Orbit Sander from Porter Cable (390) provides the high quality performance you expect from Porter Cable. The new developments and technologies used in the 3.5 Amp EnduraTech Motor provide increased performance and durability including 42% faster removal of material and a 5-10x longer motor life. The low profile design couples with ergonomic grips gives you better control on your projects. The integral dust port accepts 1″ and 1-1/2″ vacuum hoses and allows you to collect dust as you work keeping your workpiece clean.

*      5″ Low Profile Random Orbit Sander with Hook & Loop Pad
*      3.5 Amp EnduraTech Motor for increased performance and durability
*      The motor is brushless which extends tool life by as much as 10 times
*      Electronic Load Control for 42% faster material removal
*      EnduraTech motor technology has 71% fewer wear components for 5-10x longer motor life
*      Electronic motor brake reduces spin-down time by 73% for increased productivity
*      Mechanical pad brake reduces free-spin to virtually eliminate gouging
*      Low profile design reduces sander height by 31% for better control and finish
*      Variable-speed, 7,000 – 12,000 OPM for optimal removal rate on a variety of materials
*      Optimized ergonomics with rubber grip for comfort and control
*      Integral dust port accepts 1″ and 1-1/2″ vacuum hoses for optimal dust collection
*      Amps: 3.5 Amps
*      Orbits/Min: 7,000-12,000 opm
*      Tool Height: 4 inches
*      Abrasive Type: Hook & Loop or PSA

More information may be available at the Porter Cable site. I must say it is about time they updated sander technology to utilize brushless motor technology, I think that the efficiency of brushless motors are important in this THINK GREEN society that we are becoming. Coupled with the amazing run times of Lithium Ion Batteries this could be the beginning of the next generation of power tools. Update: I guess I should have just watched the video. They go into nice detail about the motor, they even show a cut away, damn that thing is sexy.