Makita has launched an innovative new battery for its 40VMax XGT range of high-performance tools. The 4.0Ah BL4040F battery is the first Makita battery to include cutting-edge tabless technology, which allows more efficient power delivery, better runtimes, and cooler running. As the latest Makita F-Type battery, it is engineered for performance on the very highest demand applications.

The tabless lithium-ion cells in the new BL4040F eliminates the bottleneck caused by current concentration by connecting the entire end of the electrode to the end of the cell, instead of connecting to tabs at each end.

With a larger connection area inside the cell, heat generation is minimised. This means that even under high load, the cell temperature is reduced compared to standard designs, which has a positive effect on the overall service life of the battery. A further benefit is that the battery can be charged immediately after intense use, with no need for a cooling phase, meaning shorter overall charging times. The tabless 4.0Ah BL4040F battery delivers up to 36% longer runtimes and operates 32% cooler compared to the standard 4.0Ah BL4040.

Like all Makita F-Type batteries, the BL4040F is a high-output battery designed for enhanced performance and better runtimes on higher drain tools such as chainsaws, breakers and demolition hammers. The new 4.0Ah BL4040F delivers the same 2.1kw maximum output as the 5.0Ah BL4050F. This means customers now have the choice of the larger, higher capacity 5.0Ah battery or the smaller, lighter 4.0Ah battery to achieve the high output that demanding tasks require. In fact, the BL4040F is 34% more compact and 28% lighter than the BL4050F.

As with all Makita’s XGT 40VMax batteries, the BL4040F is built for the toughest environments with an impact resistant and shock absorbing casing to protect the battery cells, as well as a triple layer structure to protect against water and dust ingress. XGT batteries also feature Makita’s digital communication system that connects the tool and battery to actively protect against overload, over-discharge and overheating.

The XGT range has over 125 40VMax and 80VMax (2x 40VMax) products including drills, impact drivers and wrenches, angle grinders, nailers, dust extractors, and circular, mitre and reciprocating saws.

Find out more here

Find more industry products and equipment here

The post Makita’s innovative new battery for its 40VMax XGT range appeared first on Professional Electricians Wholesaler.

Having the right power tools to hand can help significantly improve efficiency on site. Here, Kevin Brannigan, Marketing Manager at Makita, highlights some of the factors that wholesalers should be aware of when recommending products to customers.

Power tools by their nature speed up time consuming or laborious work. However, not all power tools enable the same level of efficiency in day-to-day tasks. Cordless tools will typically offer greater efficiency when compared to corded alternatives. This is because battery powered tools provide flexibility and ease of use by eliminating the need to find a power source in the work area and manage the safe routing of cables.

Due to battery and tool innovations, customers have never had a greater choice of cordless products, including for the most demanding tasks. However, when recommending cordless tools, there are a number of specific features that will be beneficial to customers to help them streamline their work and improve productivity.

Single battery platform

Significant efficiency gains can be made by selecting tools that share a common battery platform. The batteries can simply be swapped between tools as required, rather than needing to find the right battery for the right tool when moving from one task to another. It also means simpler recharging as the same charger can be used for all batteries used on site. As an example, the Makita 18V LXT range features over 270 products including drills, impact drivers, circular saws, metal saws, routers, drywall cutters, multitools, wall scanners and work lights.

Advances in both battery and tool technology means that the run times offered by leading manufacturers are now far greater than with previous generation products. However, when charging is necessary, choosing a battery platform that has been engineered for rapid recharging times means less wasted time and greater productivity. For example, Makita 3.0Ah 18V LXT batteries charge in as little as 22 minutes while the 6.0Ah version takes just 55 minutes. Additionally, there are ‘power source kits’ available that include several batteries and the required charger to enable users to always have a spare battery to hand, eliminating any need to wait for battery recharging. This also allows customers to purchase ‘body only’ tools as they expand and upgrade their kit in the future.

Brushless motors

Another key tool feature to be aware of is brushless motors. While motors with brushes are effective, the motor is driven by contact between the carbon brushes and the rotary electrical switch on the rotor. This contact causes friction that generates heat and wastes energy. It also causes wear of the brushes, which must be periodically replaced throughout the life of the tool.

In contrast, a tool with a brushless motor is driven using contact-free electromagnetism. When the tool is activated, the on-board electronic circuit sends electric currents to convert the copper coils within the motor into electromagnets. This creates north and south magnetic poles that attract and repel the permanent magnets on the rotor shaft to rotate it continuously. By eliminating the friction, and therefore the wasted energy, a brushless motor can operate more efficiently. This type of motor can also produce more torque per weight, meaning less power is needed to achieve the same results. The result of this is that a tool with a brushless motor can extend run times by up to 50% per battery charge. This means greater productivity and fewer recharges throughout a day.

Optimal power delivery

When carrying out demanding tasks, it is important to ensure that the tools can match the load requirements. Products from leading manufacturers may include technologies that allow the tools to adapt to the resistance of the material. For example, Makita’s Automatic Torque Drive Technology (ADT) automatically adjusts the speed and torque based on the load conditions during operation to ensure optimum performance.

Portable power sources

Another way that efficiency can be improved is by enabling significantly extended run-times with portable power supplies. For example, the Makita PDC1200 and PDC1500 backpack-mounted power sources provide 33Ah and 43Ah of power respectively for uninterrupted operation. These can be connected to a wide variety of machines via adaptors that slide into the battery mounting on the tool or using a direct connection on compatible products.

Streamlining dust management

Although best practice dust management is sometimes sacrificed in favour of getting a job done quickly, it is absolutely essential. This is particularly true when completing a task that generates respirable crystalline silica (RCS). These tiny particles are extremely hazardous to health and are produced when materials like concrete, masonry and stone are cut, drilled or otherwise processed. Therefore, tool technologies that can streamline dust management are worth recommending to customers.

One feature that can help achieve this is ‘auto’ functionality on dust extractors. This has been common on extractors with power take-off where corded tools can be connected to the extractor to start it when the tool is activated. However, it is now possible to achieve the same with cordless tools. For example, the Makita Auto-Start Wireless System (AWS) connects cordless tools to compatible dust extractors via Bluetooth to run the extractor when the tool is in use. For customers who are using an older model of extractor without the built-in connectivity, there are adapters available that allow tools to be connected wirelessly to any mains powered extractor that has a power take-off facility. On the other hand, if customers are looking to add a new extractor to their kit, there are cordless options available for improved ease of use and flexibility.

The correct choice of power tools can make a significant difference to the user’s experience and the level of productivity and efficiency they can achieve. Although the specification of two tools may look similar, it is important to look at the built-in tool technologies and other factors to make the best recommendation.

For further product details, click here

Find more industry feature articles here

The post The factors wholesalers should be aware of when recommending power tools to customers appeared first on Professional Electricians Wholesaler.

Supplying the products that the electrical trade needs and wants is the first rule of good customer service and will help foster customer loyalty. Here, Kevin Brannigan, Marketing Manager at Makita explains why stocking the correct range of cordless tools is a wise investment and outlines the features and technologies that will benefit customers.

It is no secret that cordless tools have become increasingly popular in recent years as an alternative to corded tools. With more tradespeople looking for new ways to tackle construction tasks more efficiently, many are adopting cordless kit and for wholesalers looking to ensure their range meets demand and continues to deliver real value to their customers, this category presents a huge opportunity for revenue.

Key benefits

For the end user, there are several key benefits to eliminating the need for power cables. Firstly, it allows greater freedom of movement and flexibility as cordless tools can be used anywhere with no restrictions based on where a power source is located and no cables getting in the way. This in turn allows electricians and electrical contractors to work far more effectively in awkward or confined spaces. This also enables improved productivity as there is no time wasted finding the nearest power source – users can get straight to work and move from one task to another quicker. There is also a safety benefit to using cordless tools as it eliminates a potential trip hazard in the form of trailing cables and saves the setup time of routing the cables safely in the work area.

However, these advantages are only part of the story. The surge in the popularity of cordless is also due to the advances in tool and battery technologies that have increased both the performance and the runtime per battery charge. Cordless tools can now match the performance of corded equivalents for a wide range of applications, including some of the most demanding tasks. This is something that should be highlighted to customers who are seeking advice on the best tool for the job.

This improvement in performance is particularly true for products that feature brushless motors. In contrast to a conventional brushed motor that relies on contact between the brushes and motor coil, brushless motors use electromagnetism to rotate the motor and drive the action of the tool, eliminating friction and wasted energy. As a result, a brushless motor can produce more torque, allowing the same results to be achieved with less power used, which can extend run times by up to 50% per battery charge. This offers a significant benefit to customers in terms of improved productivity and less frequent recharging. Brushless motors also require less maintenance as there is no need to replace brushes and as it generates less heat, the life of the tool can be extended by reducing repeated temperature cycles.

Choosing the right range

As with any category of product, the cordless tool ranges offered by different manufacturers can vary significantly in terms of performance, features and benefits so choosing which to stock is an important decision.

There are benefits to both the customer and the wholesaler of choosing a manufacturer that can offer a single battery system for a broad range of cordless tools. For example, Makita has two main battery systems for trade professionals. The 18V LXT battery system, which is compatible with more than 325 different products and the 40VMax XGT system, designed specifically for the highest demand applications, which currently has over 125 products in its range.

For end users, the ability to interchange between tools such as drills and drivers to saws to lighting to specialist tools like drywall cutters to tackle different tasks seamlessly with one battery is a strong sales message. The battery can simply be moved from one to the other in seconds. Once invested into the battery platform system, these customers will remain loyal to the brand family, again opening up ongoing revenue streams as they increase their cordless tool supply.

For wholesalers, a single battery system means a leaner inventory as fewer different battery and charger types need to be stocked. It also makes it simpler for branch staff to not only manage but also and requires far less information to digest regarding battery technology, so in turn, they can offer customers more detailed insight into the features and technologies to support them in making an informed purchase decision. It also gives wholesalers more scope to stock body only products – tools supplied without the batteries – allowing them to offer customers a valuable cost-saving option.

Finally, when choosing which products to stock, consider manufacturers that offer a wide range of cordless machines within a single battery platform. Taking this approach means that wholesalers and distributors can simplify their stocked range with less SKUs from different manufacturers to learn. With a more rationalised range, customer account teams can provide more detailed insight and support to buyers in their purchase journey. What’s more, by ‘buying into’ a battery system, electricians will remain loyal to the brand family, opening up ongoing revenue streams as they increase their cordless tool supply.

The importance of genuine batteries

A key aspect of stocking cordless, is ensuring a reliable range of additional and replacement batteries. It is important that tools are only used with genuine batteries produced by the manufacturer and wholesalers are ideally placed to warn customers about the risk of using non-genuine and counterfeit batteries. By positioning themselves as a reliable source of high-quality genuine batteries, stockists can prevent losing business to mass-market online marketplaces. For its part, Makita always recommends that professionals only source from reputable retailers such as trusted wholesalers.

Should a customer ever be tempted to apply a third-party battery to their tools, there are a range of hazards and issues that should be highlighted to them. In addition to poorer performance and the invalidation of manufacturer warranties, there are serious safety risks to using non-approved batteries. Often these batteries will not have undergone the rigorous testing that genuine batteries do. With low quality, untested products there is a real danger of thermal runaway occurring, which can lead to the battery overheating, catching fire or even, in the worst cases, exploding.

Furthermore, replica batteries will not include the safety features that leading tool manufacturers build into their batteries. This includes technology that allows the tools, batteries and chargers to communicate with each other to prevent damage. For example, this communication can allow the battery temperature to be automatically relayed to the charger when it is connected, allowing it to be cooled if necessary before charging begins to avoid overheating.

Manufacturer support

As always, it’s important to make sure you have the appropriate product knowledge to guide customers and to make recommendations that increases potential basket value. To this end, working with an industry-leading manufacturer that has a wide sales support network which can offer flexible product training is ideal. Makita has regular training programmes and four UK training and service facilities, to keep wholesale partners fully updated on new products in its range and its technologies, which can be a beneficial resource to provide further value and care for your client base.

The benefits of cordless technology, combined with the continually expanding range of tools available, means that there are clear business advantages to offering the correct range from a leading manufacturer.

For further information about the Makita cordless range, click here

Find more industry-related articles here

The post Why stocking cordless tools is a wise investment appeared first on Professional Electricians Wholesaler.

Makita has introduced a new impact driver to its powerful XGT range.

Offering the same benefits as its predecessor, the leading manufacturer has introduced new dual spring technology and enhanced anvil stability for less bit wobble with its new TD002G 40VMax XGT Brushless Impact Driver.

Powered by a 40VMax XGT Li-Ion battery, the heavy duty TD002G 40VMax XGT Brushless Impact Driver delivers a maximum fastening torque of 220N/m, a no-load speed of up to 3,700rpm and up to 4,600 impacts per minute.

Notably, Makita has developed a new dual spring mechanism for this impressive tool, consisting of two types of springs with different load capacities to adjust impact power according to the workload whilst helping to reduce recoil and vibration. This enables more comfortable operation across a wider range of applications, from light-duty screw tightening to heavy-duty metal fastening where the second spring is utilised.

Furthermore, an increased screw tightening speed enables greater working efficiency – between 10% and 25% faster, depending on the type of screws being used. Users will also appreciate the one-touch bit installation which has been refined to remove resistance when inserting the bit. As such, screwdriver bits can be inserted easily with one hand without needing to pull back the chuck collar.

For more information, click here

The post Makita | Impact driver appeared first on Professional Electricians Wholesaler.

In a move that further supports professionals with convenient and unrestricted access to power, Makita has announced the launch of its new BAC01 36V Power Converter. This useful solution turns DC power into AC power and is suitable for battery charging or the use of corded tools in outdoor job sites where an AC outlet is not available.

Specifically, the new solution converts power from Makita’s 36V battery packs to AC power for a wide range of applications – simply by connecting the PDC01 or PDC1200 battery pack to the power station.

The power converter has been designed to support a variety of requirements, offering multiple outlets that include two AC outlets, two Type-A USB output ports, two Type C USB outlet ports and one DC12V cigar socket. Collectively, users have access to a wide range of options to power multiple items when out on site and it can also be used to recharge Makita’s batteries for use with its cordless power tools or outdoor equipment.

Runtime is application dependent. For example, the PDC1200 will power a 1000W load for about 56 minutes, and the PDC01with 4x BL1860B batteries will power a 750W load for approximately 20 minutes.

Owing to the focus on portability and functionality, the power converter is also compatible with Makita’s Makpac system to allow for easy transportation. Measuring just 39.5cm by 34.5cm by 16.3cm and weighing 7.3 kilos, it can otherwise be handled using the built in carrying handles located on both sides of the unit which are retractable when not in use.

Kevin Brannigan, Marketing Manager at Makita UK, commented: “We’re always looking for opportunities to meet our customers’ needs, with our new BAC01 Power Converter doing just that. We foresee this being a highly useful and complementary piece of equipment for tradespeople working on large sites, or in remote areas where there isn’t a power supply available. It’s an easily transportable, highly effective source of power that is compatible with a variety of tools and lighting equipment.”

With a nominal battery voltage of 36V, the BAC01 has a maximum power output of 2,800 W and continuous rating output of 1,400 W.

To discover more about Makita and explore its full range of products including batteries, chargers and adapters, click here

The post Power anywhere with Makita’s new BAC01 Power Converter appeared first on Professional Electricians Wholesaler.

Makita has launched its eagerly anticipated cordless microwave oven. Driven by the company’s powerful 40VMax XGT battery, the new MW001GZ is designed for portability, allowing users to enjoy hot, microwaved meals in minutes, whether on site, on the road, or at leisure.

The eight litre capacity MW001GZ is powered by one or two 40VMax XGT batteries and is designed to utilise the power sequentially for continuous power when it’s needed.

With two output settings – 500W or 350W, the inner heating area is large enough to fit most microwave containers and provides a continuous heating time of up to 37 minutes (when used with two BL4080F batteries at 500W output).

To withstand tough conditions such as building sites, this compact and durable microwave has been manufactured with a tempered door glass and is dust and water resistant. The appliance also features large carry handles for easy transportation and is also supplied with a carry strap. A USB port is also built-in for charging devices such as mobile phones.

For more information, click here

The post Makita | Cordless microwave appeared first on Professional Electricians Wholesaler.

Makita has added a handheld blower to its expanding LXT cordless collection.

The versatile 18V DAS180 LXT Brushless Blower is the latest product from the leading power tool manufacturer that is also capable of inflating and deflating, simply by changing the nozzle tip.

The new 18V DAS180 LXT Blower is powered by a brushless motor with variable speed control. Suitable for a wide range of applications, from cleaning off workbenches, machinery, cleaning and blocked filters, through to inflating inner tubes and play pools, this handy tool makes a useful companion to any kit bag.

The body is designed with an ergonomic rubberised grip and weighs only 1.7kg, making this tool easy to operate with one hand. Despite its compact size, the unit is extremely powerful and offers a maximum sealed suction of 10.3kPa. Its four stage air volume settings deliver a blowing force of up to 2.8N with a maximum 200m/second air velocity and air volume of 1.1m³/min.

Other features include a one-touch, tool-less nozzle attachment to quickly adjust the tool for each application. The variable speed trigger comfortably controls the blowing force and can be locked in the ‘on’ position for extended use. A tether feature offers a safe hanging point to secure the tool in overhead applications.

With the launch, Makita has also added a number of compatible nozzle accessories to offer a wealth of uses for blowing, inflation and deflation applications. This includes a flexible nozzle set with a ø6.0×800 hose which is ideal for blowing out debris in narrow spaces where the machine cannot fit.

For more information, click here

The post Handheld blower | Makita appeared first on Professional Electricians Wholesaler.

Makita UK has added a new 2-Piece Combo Kit to its extensive range of LXT products.

The new DLX2460TJ Combo Kit features two of Makita’s most popular professional cordless power tools – the DTD153Z 18V LXT Brushless Impact Driver and DHP487Z 18V LXT Brushless Combi Drill.

Housed in a Type 3 Makpac connector case for easy storage and transportation, the kit also includes two 5.0Ah 18V LXT BL1850B batteries and the DC18RC fast charger which can be used across Makita’s vast LXT range.

The DTD153Z is an extremely powerful impact driver with 170Nm max torque, delivering a no-load speed of 3,400rpm and providing up to 3,600 impacts per minute – making it capable of driving screws up to 125mm into timber without a pilot hole and up to 30% faster than a conventional drill/driver.

Makita’s compact DHP487Z 18V LXT Brushless Combi Drill features variable speed control to deliver up to 1,700rpm, 25,500bpm and 40Nm maximum fastening torque for a wide range of drilling, fastening and hammer drilling applications.

Weighing up to 1.7kg, this lightweight and portable combi drill is a versatile power tool that can handle a wide scope of applications. It also has a single sleeve keyless chuck for quick and easy bit changes with 20 torque settings, plus drill mode for added fastening control.

For more information, click here

The post Makita UK’s Powertool Combo Kit appeared first on Professional Electricians Wholesaler.