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In an effort to keep you informed, SolidSurface has been in contact with numerous companies that offer tools and tooling for solid surface and engineered stone fabrication. While we can't provide information from every company, we have compiled data on some things you may find helpful in your shop.
Hand Tools
Anver Corp. offers a seam alignment tool for nonporous surfaces. The Model HC-108D consists of two hand suction cups for picking up surfaces and has a removable turnbuckle assembly for pulling them together. Providing fully adjustable tension, the ratcheting turnbuckle assembly has a reversing gear for quick release after setting. It provides over 300 lbs. (136 kg) of side pull capacity at a 4 to 1 safety factor, and multiple tools can be used on larger countertops and floors.
Betterley Industries offers the new RELOC (REusable LOCating) Blocks to simplify solid surface gluing procedures. The blocks eliminate the need to cut wooden locating blocks, and save fabrication time wasted removing blocks with a hammer and chisel. The blocks are adhered with hot melt and can be instantly removed by turning the release knob. The polymer construction ensures the hot melt will release cleanly and seaming adhesives will not bond to the blocks. The blocks can be reused indefinitely.
Bosch Power Tools & Accessories provides the 1.0 hp PR20EVSK and PR10E Colt Palm Routers, each having 1.0 hp and 5.7 amps. The PR10E powers 35,000 rpm (no load), while the PR20EVS has speeds from 16,000 to 35,000 rpm. Other features include soft-start to reduce start-up torque and Constant Response electronics to maintain speed under load. They also have the Bosch router quick-clamp system plus advanced quick macro and microfine depth adjustment. A spindle lock makes for one-wrench bit changes, and it has a self-releasing collet for ¼-in. shank bits.
Braxton-Bragg Corp. offers the new Ghines Triple Speed Router, which offers three speeds: 2,600, 6,000, and 10,000 rpm. The maximum speed provides power for shaping natural stone. The medium speed is for stock removal and finishing engineered stone. This speed also prevents overheating and damaging of resin bonded ES components. The low speed provides the proper rpm for polishing. It is also equipped with an electronic vectorial inverter to optimize power supply and keep the torque constant at any speed.
Gem Industries Orbital Sander has100 percent oscillating hand motion. This heavy-duty machine runs at 1,730 orbits per minute without creating the swirl marks. The 18 lbs. of machine weight ensures a consistent finish throughout the surface. The 11-in. sanding head cuts labor time. From taking down seams to achieving matte, semigloss or high-gloss finishes, this sander/polisher does it all. The ball bearing capacitor motor is built to run 24/7 and is virtually maintenance-free. The sander is available with a shroud attachment for dust collection, which will hook up to any standard shop vac. The shroud can also be retro-fitted to any Gem sander.
Partner Industrial Products offers the K950 Chain Saw with diamond chain, designed for cutting thick concrete. The saw is the only hand-held concrete saw that can cut perfectly square corners without overcuts and make up to 15-in. deep cuts from one side. It can cut through openings in concrete, navigate irregular cuts, and cut concrete piping without cracking.
Surcare provides the SMF-V4 random orbital sander and micro finisher that has a dust extraction system within the chassis. It comes with one accessory pad (Quick Grit Change System) to house 4mm by 125mm abrasive discs. A quick release extension handle is optional. It is suitable for a range of materials including plastics, veneers, marble and laminated panels.
Tooling
BC Saw and Tool offers new Diamond Tipped Saw Blades for cutting solid surface. Available in standard dimensions from 250mm to 350mm, they run on table saws, sliders and vertical panel saws. They can be resharpened numerous times and combine good cut quality with long edge life, resulting in increased production, reduced downtime and a low cost per cut.
