PHAM NEWS | SEPTEMBER 2025 14 Gadgets& Tools


Sleek design for work in tight spaces


The slimline Cobra ES range from KNIPEX has been enhanced with two upgrades: a new 180mm version for tight spaces and the original, now- updated, 250mm model with improved gripping capacity and jaw geometry. Both versions have long, narrow jaws to get into confi ned areas, making them suitable for installation and assembly tasks where space is limited. The updated models retain the core features of the


AI makes inspections smarter


New from Hikmicro are two artifi cial intelligence algorithms, SuperScene and SuperScene+, to enhance thermal imaging and inspection processes in residential, electrical and industrial applications. They are designed to improve detection accuracy, reduce manual interpretation and simplify workfl ow for both new and experienced users. SuperScene is available for use


on select Hikmicro handheld and pocket devices, including models such as the Eco, Eco-V, B20S, B21LS, PocketE and Pocket2. It uses deep learning to identify common thermal inspection issues such as poor insulation or potential water leaks, based on a library of reference images. This feature has been designed to enable users to conduct faster and more consistent inspections during infrared scans. SuperScene+ is available on


Hikmicro’s M and SP Series thermal cameras and is designed for use in more complex environments. In electrical inspections, it identifi es abnormal heat patterns in components such as fuses using image recognition and temperature variation analysis. In PCB inspections, it enables


batch screening of high-density boards to detect issues like short circuits, cold joints and overloads. Built-in templates and automated zone analysis reduce the setup time and improve inspection consistency, with calibration times shortened from over 30 minutes to under fi ve. Whether inspecting a home,


tracking down a water leak or safeguarding an industrial system, the AI-driven tools are designed to make every inspection smarter and every decision faster. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/925/17


Cobra ES range, including push-button adjustment, self-locking grip on pipes and nuts, and specially hardened teeth for wear resistance. The 180mm version has 18 adjustment positions and a 32mm capacity, while the larger 250mm version off ers 25 positions and grips up to 40mm. Both tools are suited to plumbing, HVAC and general mechanical work where access is restricted. The improved front teeth design enhances grip on fl at and round


materials with less eff ort. A slim joint, ergonomic handles and integrated pinch protection support ease of use in tight or awkward spaces. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/925/18


High-performance drilling accessories


Samac Fixings has launched the Viper Power Tool Accessories range, a collection of drilling products designed for use in wood, metal, masonry, tile and other materials. The range includes SDS+ hammer drill bits, holesaws, tile bits and high-speed steel cobalt drills. Highlights include the HSS Cobalt


Drill Bits, which are crafted for high-performance bolts and fi ttings drilling in tough ferrous and non- ferrous metals, off ering increased heat resistance and longer tool life. The V-Tooth Hard Tile Bits,


meanwhile, are engineered for speed and precision and feature a patented tungsten carbide tip that delivers up to 20x faster performance than a standard hard tile drill bit. The sharp-angled design enables fast starts and clean cuts through tile, marble, and stone. Also featured are the Bi-Metal


Holesaws with hardened M42 Cobalt Steel pitch teeth, which are built for fast, durable, long life cutting. They are designed to deliver clean, consistent holes across pipework, cables and fi ttings in wood, plastic and metal. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/925/19


Spanners for tight combi fi ttings


Measuring only 125mm long and 5mm thick, these plated steel spanners from Johnson Magnetic Filters have been specifi cally designed for use on combi boilers. Described as a ‘must have’ for any installer or service engineer, they fi t the horizontal nuts connecting the boiler to valves and enable easy access, even from the back of the appliance. There are currently three spanners


available: No.1 (bent up), No.2 (fl at) and No.3 (bent down), all making it easier to get to those awkward fi ttings which are hard to work on with an adjustable spanner. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/925/20


Gloves can grip the task at hand


Expanding its personal protective equipment (PPE) range, Arctic Hayes has launched the Dirty Grippers Nitrile Gloves, off ering tradespeople a tough and dependable option for hand protection on site. The new gloves combine excellent grip in both wet and dry


conditions with high tear resistance and a snug fi t. Whether handling chemicals, oils or pipework, the gloves are said to provide consistent performance and comfort across long working days. The 6g standard nitrile is a plain grip glove, ideal for everyday use. The 8g glove is designed with a diamond texture, delivering grip and protection for use across heavier industries. Arctic Hayes also off ers a range of microfi bre cloth and


Dirty Scrubbers Heavy Duty Abrasive Wipes as a way to maintain site hygiene, clean tools and surfaces quickly, and reduce the risk of contamination. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/925/22


Cordless cutter for steel pipe installation


The M18 Fuel Steel Pipe Cutter has been developed by Milwaukee for cutting steel pipe in plumbing and mechanical applications. It is designed for use on both new and installed pipes and aims to improve accuracy, safety and preparation time on site. It uses a linear blade actuation system to ensure clean, square cuts, reducing the need for manual blade angle control or post-cut fi ling and deburring. For installed pipe, an integrated


positive stop helps prevent overcutting, especially in tight


spaces. For new pipe, a foldable cut fence supports one- handed alignment, removing the need for a separate pipe vise. The cutter has a no-load speed of 3,140 rpm, a 114


mm blade diameter, and a maximum cutting capacity of 33.7 mm. It operates on Milwaukee’s M18 battery system and weighs 3.7 kg with the M18 B5 battery pack. Supplied as a kit, it includes the pipe cutter, two battery packs, a charger and a heavy-duty storage box. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/925/21


Colour coded clips


Talon’s Identifi cation Hinged Clips off er a colour-coded system that helps you clearly label pipework, reducing errors and improving installation standards. Made from UV-stabilised, temperature-resistant polypropylene, the clips are durable, easy to fi t, and suitable for internal or external use. Available in six colours and multiple sizes, they allow quick identifi cation of hot and cold water, gas and other services. They are designed to save time, improve communication onsite, and add a professional fi nish. Particularly useful in complex or multi-trade environments, the clips help prevent costly mix-ups and contribute to safer, more effi cient installations. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/925/23


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