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Beginners Guide to Choosing

Power Tools

There are several metals used in batteries, and with each comes certain advantages and disadvantages relating to cost, weight, and efficiency.The most common battery types are –

Lithium ion (Li Ion)Nickel Cadmium (NiCd)Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH)

So which battery is best??

Battery type?

LITHIUM ION

Most environmentally friendly

Cheapest Fewest charge

cycles High self-

discharge rate

NICKEL METAL HYDRIDE

NICKEL CADMIUM

High no. charge cycles (no. charges before battery dies)

Cheap Wide

temperature tolerance

Heavy Suffers from

“memory effect” Contains toxic

Cadmium

Lightest battery High recharge

efficiency Highest no. charge

cycles Low self-discharge

rate No “memory

effect” (reduced capacity from partial recharge)

Expensive Can overheat

You get what you pay for!!

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Power tool batteries range between 3.6 volts and 36 volts.Voltage increases by multiplying low voltage cells in series.Therefore, higher voltage means increased power, but also a larger and heavier battery.

Voltage?

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Increased circumference = Increased torque

When is more power better?

Generally more power is needed for tasks requiring greater torque, such as drilling wide holes, or operating saws.

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For most of us 12 volts or less is adequate depending on the type of tool. Higher voltages are typically used for more serious construction work. If you’re still unsure check the tool specifications, which in the case of drills and drivers, should state the maximum drilling diameter for different materials e.g. timber or masonry.

So what voltage is best for me?

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Amp hours are basically how long your tool will run for before you have to recharge the battery. Higher amp hours means higher cost, and a larger battery.For most of us “non-tradies” the lower option is fine where there are several options available.

What are amp hours?

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Basically, brushed motors have a mechanical spinning motion that requires contact between components whereas the brushless uses a contactless electromagnetic field. Brushless DC motors are more efficient, smaller, and require less servicing (particularly if investing in one of the more reputable brands). However, they also cost significantly more, and for most of us may not be worth the extra dollars.

Brushed or Brushless Motor?

Source: http://www.popularmechanics.com/home/reviews/a8109/whats-so-great-about-brushless-motor-power-tools/

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If you are planning on buying a number of power tools consider sticking with one brand. The bigger brands generally sell batteries that will run a variety of their products so you only need one battery to operate a range of tools.

Brand loyalty pays off!

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Not sure about which brand to go with?If you want something long lasting it’s worthwhile investing in one of the more reputable brands. However, if it’s just for the odd job around the house then you may not want to spend up big.If you’re planning on using your tools regularly also consider the ergonomics and weight, as well as the other features discussed here.

Keep these things in mind when shopping around and you’ll find what’s right for you!

And lastly….

Mastering your Independence