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When to use handheld hydraulic tools?

Operators in the construction and rental industries often have a wide range of tools to choose from, which can make identifying the right one for each task a challenge. Check out below four examples that will help you determine if handheld hydraulic tools are the correct choice for the job.

You should consider a handheld hydraulic tool if you require:

1. High power to weight ratio

Handheld hydraulic tools have the highest power to weight ratio and can be powered by a compact power pack, which is easy to transport. That is why a variety of hydraulic tools, such as breakers, cut-off saws, post drivers, post pullers, core drills, and pick hammers are popular across applications, including road maintenance, building renovations, and sewage management. As they are compact and quiet, they are perfect for working in areas with high traffic flow or city centers, with strict noise restrictions. 

2. Quick set-up and portability

Handheld hydraulic tools are powered with a compact power pack, which can be transported in the back of a van, enabling a quick and easy to set up. What is more, one power pack can be used with multiple different tools, making it easy to switch between tasks. This makes hydraulic tools versatile and ideal for emergency jobs that require a quick response. Furthermore, the small footprint and easy maneuverability mean that they are easy to use, even in applications where space is limited or areas that are difficult to access. They are also very flexible. For example, Chicago Pneumatic’s latest hydraulic breakers can even be used under water with just minor modifications. 

3. Ease of use and simple maintenance

BRK 40 VR hydraulic breaker with power pack
Hydraulic tools are perfect for intermittent use as they require virtually no maintenance, which means they are easy to keep in working order, ready for use when needed. That is why they are often chosen for quick one-day jobs, such as fencing or breaking up pavement for laying down cables or piping, or quick-response emergency road jobs. For jobs like post drivers where the application is always switching from place to place, hydraulic tools make the perfect fit. With just a few moving parts, the tools are subjected to minimal wear, offering higher reliability than pneumatic or electric alternatives. Their hydraulics work in a closed loop, protecting the mechanics against dust, dirt, and moisture. Chicago Pneumatic’s range of hydraulic tools features a thermostatically controlled oil cooler, which allows them to warm up fast without overheating. Inbuilt lubrication provides additional protection, further reducing the risk of downtime.

4. Enhanced user safety

Hydraulic tools offer a wealth of benefits when it comes to safety. First, they have the best power to weight ratio, enabling operators to access maximum power with minimal strain on their hands. This helps reduce the risk of the debilitating Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS). Finally, they can be safely used in harsh environmental conditions: as no electric power source is required, there is no risk of an electric shock even in damp weather. While they are best suited for short-term intermittent use, combined with a full fuel tank, they can be used for up to four hours at a time.

Handheld hydraulic tools bring unrivaled versatility to construction tasks, combining the benefits of high power and low cost with a host of other features that make them suitable for a wide range of construction tasks. Find out more about how Chicago Pneumatic's handheld hydraulic tools can optimize your performance.

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