Page 99 - Robot Builder's Bonanza

68 MECHANICAL CONSTRUCTION TECHNIQUES

GENERAL STUFF
When using an extension cord, be sure it is rated for the current being passed through
it. As a general rule, medium- duty tools (8 to 10 amps) can be used with 14- gauge
extension cords, no more than 50 feet. (Gauge refers to the thickness of the wires; the
smaller the number, the larger the wires.) Check the instruction manual for the tool for
guidelines.
Keep the exterior of the tool clean by wiping it off with a dry cloth. Grime can be
removed by cleaning with a slightly damp cloth. Never apply water or any other liquid
directly to the tool.

Getting Work Done Fast with Air Tools

Electric power tools are by far the most common variety found in any home shop. Yet another
kind of power tool is the air (pneumatic) type, which is driven by a blast of high- pressure air.
Common air power tools include the drill (standard and reversible models available; see Figure
6-5), air hammers, metal snips (very handy!—I use these all the time), and power wrench.
Pneumatic tools offer several advantages:

• Air tools tend to be lighter because they lack a bulky motor.
• The tools are generally less expensive than their electrified cousins, because their motor is
a fairly simple air pump. Of course, you need a separate compressor to supply the air.
• They’re safer to use outdoors, because there’s no electricity to the tool. You can keep the
compressor indoors and connect the compressor and tool via a hose.
• Properly cared for, air tools can last a lifetime (your lifetime, that is).

Know that water destroys air tools. Use pneumatic tool oil to dispel any moisture. Oiling
your air tools every day that you use them will greatly prolong their life. To oil an air tool just
squirt a dab or two into its air intake the first time you use it that day.
Pneumatic tools require both air pressure and air volume to work. Be sure your compressor
can deliver both the pressure and the volume needed by your tools. The specifications that
come with each tool will tell you what it needs.
Keep the air hose as short as possible. The longer the hose, the less the pressure to the
tool. A length of under 25 feet is ideal. I like using noncoiled hoses, as the “straight” ones tend
to provide higher pressures. However, the coiled hoses are more convenient.

Figure 6-5 A pneumatic drill is lighter and
smaller than an electric drill, but it needs a
constant source of compressed air.

06-chapter-6.indd 68 4/21/11 11:44 AM