Hand and Power Tools
Product Showcase
Before edge polishing machines, CNC machining centers or even robots were available to aid in the fabrication process, everything was done by hand with tools a lot less complex than programmable machining centers, and those tools are still just as important now. Whether all, part or none of your shop’s process is automated, hand and power tools are still integral to any shop operation, even if just for that last bit of manual touch-up to ensure a flawless top for the customer before installation. In this issue, we have gathered those essential tools into one place for you to browse at your convenience.
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2008 Lam-Clamps
The Lam-Clamps by Omni Cubed feature a new upper clamp jaw with concave sides, which lightens the product and creates an easy-grip surface in the 2008 model. Six clamp sizes are available, ranging from 5 in. to 6 ft. in length. The shorter lengths are suitable for curves, the longer lengths are designed for speed. All clamps laminate 4- to 6-cm thick edges and feature hidden clamp threads to protect from epoxy contamination. |
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AccuGlide Stone Saw
The AccuGlide Stone Saw, available from AccuGlide Saws, weighs 30 lbs. and sets up in 15 seconds without clamps or suction cups. Cut length is 133 in. and cut depth is 6 cm. The MiterMaster System can be added at anytime for precision miters, quirk miters and bevels in 2- or 3-cm stone. Additional accessories utilize the tool without tracks for free-form cutting and shaping on the slab. The newest model is powered by a Bosch motor, equivalent to 3.1 hp. The tracks are available in a 5 to 12.5 ft. lengths and come in attached or interlocking configurations. |
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Angle Grinder Attachments
Bosch Power Tools and Accessories offer angle grinder attachments. The SG-Series attachments are designed for concrete and other surfacing applications where aggressive dust removal is necessary. Optimized for use with the company's AirSweep vacuum system, the attachments keep concrete dust out of the air and off of the work surface. A removable nose piece enables up-to-wall surfacing, while a replaceable brush ring maximizes the attachment's lifespan. The DC-Series attachments allow for a full depth of cut and suitable line-of-sight in precision concrete cutting applications. The attachments are designed in accordance with anticipated OSHA standards. |
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Barranca 2321WR
Federal Saw and Tool offers the Barranca 2321WR 5-in. pneumatic polisher for stone, sold either separately or as part of a kit that is suitable for solid surface companies transitioning to include stone fabrication, as well as existing stone shops. The polisher allows for wrenchless replacement of bearings when needed by loosening the head screw, turning the tool over and dropping them out. There is no need to take the body of the tool apart to make the change. The kit comes with the polisher, two grinding cup wheels, a 4-in. backer pad, a set of 4-in. diamond resin pads and a 4-in. felt pad and carrying case. |
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Contour Cat KS 80/3
The hand-held Contour Cat KS 80/3 is available from High Tech Stone Inc. for milling, grinding, polishing, groove-cutting and edge profiling. The tool features a compact size and low weight with a 1600 W output and variable speed adjustment from 1700 to 6800 rpm's. In order to achieve sufficient cooling, the water is fed via two segmented waterfeeds. The hoses are located to the right and left of the drive shaft and can be regulated separately guaranteeing sufficient cooling. The motor is equipped with a handle and the speed control is on top of the machine. The guide columns for height adjustment have been lengthened for an adjustment of 30 mm. |
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Cox MR-50 Applicator
Dani Designs offers the new Cox quality 50 ml cartridge adhesive applicator. The applicator features a drop-in breech loading system making it simple to change cartridges. Made from lightweight molded glass reinforced ABS, the MR-50 applicators are available for same day shipping. |
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Dust Management System
3M offers a comprehensive line of precision-balanced, air-powered finishing tools. One of the line's unique innovations is 3M's new dust management system featuring Clean Sanding Discs and vacuum equipped tools. The patented multi-hole pattern evacuates dust during the finishing process allowing the discs to cut more and last longer while lowering dust levels. The Self Generated Vacuum Random Orbital Sanders leverage the company's Filtrete fibers that work like tiny magnets to attract and retain more of the micro dust particles Dust is captured inside the bag's "web" helping to avoid release back into the tool and air. |
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Dust-free Sanding Systems
FEIN Dust-Free sanding systems integrate a variety of sanders and vacuums into complete systems that capture 98 percent of the dust created by sanding. Using this system, the sandpaper rides directly on the work instead of on a bed of dust. Fresh abrasive is always in contact with the surface and the sanding pad stays cool. The MSF 636-1 sander features a true random orbital action with a 5/16-in. stroke that produces a consistent scotch pattern. |
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Gorilla Gripper
The Gorilla Gripper from SpecialtyTools.com is a sheet lifting tool capable of handling plywood, MDF, glass, granite, marble and more. The tool slips over the center of the top edge of panels with thicknesses between 3/8 and 1 1/8 in. When the handle is lifted, two gripping plates pivot into a parallel position to the panel surfaces, moving together to compress against the panel, gripping it tightly. The design of the tool allows for increased grip the more the panel material weighs. |
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IXL Vacuum Shroud
The new MK Diamond Products Inc. IXL Vacuum Shroud for 7 and 9-in. grinders, has been designed to incorporate a Cyclone Technology that uses velocity combined with negative pressure to directionally flow materials away from the grinding wheel. The technology results in less airborne dust, less cleanup and improved grinding efficiency. The injection-molded shroud is made from an "abrasive resistant" plastic to prevent wear from the grinding process. It can be used with traditional shop vacuums or with an approved bag if a vacuum is not available. |
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Lamello Lamina E Laminate Trimmer
The Lamello Lamina E laminate trimmer, available through Colonial Saw, provides chip-free, flush or chamfer cutting of plastic laminates, wood veneers, nonferrous metals and most composite materials. The tool cuts at 0 or 35 degrees and is designed for quick setups and hand feeding. A twist of the motor pre-selects cutting depth and chamfer width, and a built-in scale enhances accuracy. Maximum cutting depth is 3 mm at 0 degrees and 4 mm at 35 degrees. The tool comes with a square stop for flush cutting of edge banding, a tool set and a wooden case. The 28,000-rpm cutter is 30 mm in diameter. |
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OF 2200 EB Plunge Router
The OF 2200 EB Plunge Router from FESTOOL has 2200 watts of power and MMC electronics to increase the feed rate and reduce stalling. Fingertip controls, angled grips and a 30-degree offset base make the router easy to handle and maneuver. It features micro depth adjustment up to 1/10mm [1/256 in.] and double column clamping that reportedly eliminates head wobble. Additionally, it features tool-less base plate and copy ring changes and it has a ratcheting spindle and single on-board wrench for bit changes. |
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SE2800
Metabo Corporation offers the SE2800 screwdriver featuring a lightweight, ergonomic design. The tool features a compact design with a tool length of 9 ½-in. The shell houses a heavy-duty forward and reverse running motor with up to 106 in. per lbs. of tightening torque. The onboard Variospeed electronics offer no-load speeds of up to 2,850 rpm with a precision adjustable screw depth feature. A two-piece depth stop also allows the screwdriver bit to be replaced without losing the selected depth setting. |
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Shroud Accessory
GEM offers a shroud accessory for dust collection. The shroud retro-fits any GEM sander in the field and operates with a standard shop vacuum. The shroud can be ordered separately, or pre-assembled with new machines. The outlet pipe is 1 1/2-in. An adapter is also avaiable for use with 1 1/4-in. hose. |
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SMF-Series Sander
The SMF-Series sanders from Surcare Australia, are random orbital sanders, with a 4 disc Quick Grit Change System that covers a large surface area and achieves a suitable finish in a short time. Multiple models are available to suit applications such as solid surface, timber, metals including spray on metals, veneer, laminated surfaces, etc. |
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STACC-VAC Router Base
The Betterley STACC-VAC Router Base captures more than 95 percent of the dust generated in most typical routing operations, while the oversized base enhances stability and control with portable routers. The clear upper bit shield provides an unobstructed view of the bit and works in conjunction with the dust deflectors to shield the operator from the cutting bit and debris for safety. The tool is available in two sizes to fit many routers from 1 to 3½ hp. Optional models and components to accept router bits up to 3½-in. diameter, template guides or an edge guide designed for rabbeting solid surface countertops for cove build -up. |
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Straight Edges
Pinske Edge Straight Edges offer straight lines and sharp edges. Available in many lengths, they are made from extruded aluminum and are machined straight. A full range of products and supplies are also available: power grips, squares, work tables, coved backsplash equipment, seaming cups, sanders, repair systems, adhesives, mixing tips, bits, templates, clamps and more. |
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Triton Router
The 2¼-hp Triton router is capable of depth adjustments above the table through a portable height adjustment crank. Once the router is table-mounted, the height adjustment crank can be used for quick and accurate adjustments, eliminating the need for a router lift accessory. The design also allows bit changing from above the table. The router features a shaft lock for changing bits with switch lock-out to prevent accidental starting and a micro adjuster for precise depth adjustments, variable speed control, soft start and quick change from free plunge to rack and pinion plunge. |
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Vacuum Dynafine Detail Sander
Dynabrade Inc. offers the Vacuum Dynafine Detail Sander. The tool is suitable for sanding in corners and tight areas and efficiently captures dust and contaminants. It is an air-powered finishing sander which runs at 13,000 rpm. The tool features a 1/32-in. diameter orbital pattern and is available in either a Self-Generated Vacuum Model, or a Central Vacuum Model for connection to an external central vacuum system. Vinyl and Hook-face Sanding Pads are also available in Tear Drop, Triangular and Round Shapes for use with PSA and Hook Face Abrasives. |
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Wavy Edge Sanding System
Performance Abrasives manufactures the patented wavy edge sanding system. The 11 in. high-performance sander, part of Performance Abrasives' wavy edge sanding system, uses hook-n-loop abrasives, solid or Donut O'Brasive. The wavy edge disc rolls around the back-up pad and with the Donut O'Brasive sanding disc, the pressure is distributed to the outer edges of the sandpaper which rotates at a faster speed than the center of the disc and eliminates the dust which accumulates in the center of the disc that causes swirl marks and scratches. |




