Launching this month from Metabo is their new 3 function KHA36 LTX SDS hammer


Powered by a 4.0Ah 36v Lithium Ion battery pack this compact machine pumps out an impressive 3.1Joules to quickly drill holes up to 32mm efficiently and effortlessly. With 4.0Ah in the fuel tank the KHA36 has the largest comparable capacity of holes per battery charge on the market. This new machine also features Metabo’s ‘Quick’ change chuck system and a 2nd (keyless) chuck enabling a fast change from SDS to conventional bits, and as you would expect from this premium brand the KHA36 incorporates safety features such as Anti-Vibration systems in both the back handle and side handle as well as a safety clutch to protect the user. Light, compact, fast and durable, this is a powerhouse of a machine and is backed by Metabo’s 3yr warranty, as are its batteries, chucks and charger.


– Continued from previous page the type of tests that are appropriate for different product categories, but in the hire equipment sector good practice says that a routine flash test should be a required


part of the testing quality programme undertaken by hire and rental operators, reinforcing the testing undertaken by the manufacturer of the tool during product manufacturing and final assembly. Moreover, the CoP recommends that every piece of equipment is inspected and tested after every hire and that it is recommended that it is supplied with proof that it has passed the required testing. This can be achieved through testing electrically powered hire tools for earth continuity, flash test and insulation resistance, although a host of other tests such as


touch and protective conductor current, IEC cord or lead tests and RCD trip time tests, may also be required depending on the type of equipment in use and the associated risk factors. The revised CoP highlights flash testing (also known as Dielectric strength or HiPOT), breaking down testing into two defined types: 1) Dielectric Withstand Voltage Test. A standard test voltage is applied (below the established Breakdown Voltage) and the resulting leakage current is monitored. The


leakage current must be below a preset limit or the test is considered to have failed.This test is non-destructive when conducted in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and is usually required by safety agencies to be performed as a 100% production line test on all products before they leave the factory. A Dielectric Withstand Voltage Test is the suggested test when referring to testing repaired or in service equipment. This test is more arduous and can detect faults


where a standard 500v Insulation resistance test sometimes cannot. 2) Dielectric breakdown Test. This test IS NOT recommended for in service testing, this is more commonly used for the manufacturers type test of the equipment.


The test voltage is increased until the dielectric fails, or breaks down, allowing too much current to flow. The dielectric is often destroyed by this test so this test is used on a random sample basis. This test allows designers to estimate the breakdown voltage of a product’s design. Dielectric strength testing should only be performed in a safe environment where no hazard will be created. The test voltages applied will exceed 1000V and the test will be considered a fail if breakdown occurs. Breakdown is assumed to occur when the current in the test


circuit exceeds 5mA.


Testing expertise and recording The CoP highlights that it is important to ensure the personnel who undertake the repair of equipment, which may involve some dismantling or opening up of the


equipment, are fully trained in the particular product they service and are conversant with the electrical circuits of the equipment. Irrespective of the repair or testing undertaken, hire shop personnel must be instructed and trained properly and, equally crucial, they should be continuously updated on the safety requirements and safety rules applicable to their work. It’s also essential that a record system is maintained for every inspection and test of every piece of rental equipment – by recording test results and thus becoming


aware of any trend towards a failure threshold, or a sudden change in test value, the hirer can anticipate future problems. Many modern testers are capable of storing test results in an internal memory for subsequent error free downloading to PC based record programs. The same


programs can be used to manage re-test schedules. In by formally recording test passes and failures, changes in test values can be used by the workshop manager identify and anticipate future problems associated with an item of equipment. In addition to computerised records it is also recommended that safety testing routines are linked to a tagging or labelling system which accurately defines the status of


the hire equipment at any time. The tags should state details of inspections, tests carried out and repairs undertaken. It should also indicate if the equipment is ready for rental or if the equipment has been withdrawn from rental purposes etc. Hirers can take advantage of a range of advanced, reliable and high performance testers to meet their obligations, including the Clare SafeCheck 8 safety tester.


Manufactured in ISO9001 certified facilities, this compact bench top tester provides tool hire companies with the proof that tools have been tested and gives customers the confidence that equipment can be used safely.


telephone 01444 440188 ToolBUSINESS+HIRE 9


Reply No. 217


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