Leak-Detection Flashlight is Super Compact

Spectronics Corp. has introduced the super-compact Spectroline OPTIMAX Jr – a cordless leak-detection flashlight that reveals refrigerant leaks in cramped areas inaccessible to larger lamps. It measures 7 1/4 in. long, weighs 5 oz., and can fit in a shirt pocket. The flashlight makes all manufacturers’ fluorescent dyes glow brightly so technicians can quickly pinpoint leaks in air conditioning and refrigeration systems. It provides over four hours of peak performance with a choice of continuous or intermittent illumination.

The OPTIMAX Jr is powered by three AA batteries, which are included, and uses an LED bulb with a 100,000-hour life. The flashlight comes with fluorescence-enhancing glasses. It also is available as part of the EZ-Ject Leak Detection Kit, which features the EZ-Ject dye injector, two EZ-Ject multi-dose dye cartridges (each cartridge treats up to 25 lbs. of refrigerant or two gal. of lubricant) and an 8 oz. spray bottle of GLO-AWAY dye cleaner, all packed in a rugged carrying case.

For more information: Visit www.spectroline.com.

Lenox Introduces Snips and HVACR Tools

Lenox has introduced a line of snips and hvac tools designed for hvac installation and metal fabrication. The new line offers longer blade and spring life and more comfortable grips. The Aviation Snips feature precision-formed blades ground to a point for long, even cuts. The Offset Snips are designed with bi-material blades: 1074 high-carbon-steel upper blades for sharpness, and forged lower blades for strength. The springs are made from reinforced chrome silicone valve-quality wire. The snips are available in right, left, and straight cutting aviation; right and left offset; and bulldog snip to cut up to 16-gauge cold-rolled steel. The hvac line also includes crimpers, seamers, notchers, snap locks punches, and pipe duct cleaners, which feature the same spring durability and comfortable grips as the Snips.

For more information: Visit www.lenoxsaw.com.

Compact Rotary Hammer Introduced

Hitachi Power Tools announces a compact 1 3/16-in. SDS plus Rotary Hammer, the DH30PC2, that produces impact energy of 4 ft-lbs and delivers the fastest drilling and chiseling speeds on the market. Incorporating a new design, this rotary hammer weighs 9.5 lbs. and is 14-in. in length. The hammer features a 7.4-amp motor that delivers 850 watts of input power; an electronic variable-speed control that gives the tool a no-load RPM between 0-850; and an impact rate of 0 3,700 BPM. Its chuck accepts SDS Plus.

This multi-duty rotary hammer offers three modes of operation: drilling only, hammer only, and hammer drilling that is controlled by a mode-selector dial. An adjustable 360-degree side handle provides better control and can be removed when working in tight spaces for better maneuverability. The side handle also includes a depth gauge for consistent drilling depths. Auto-stop carbon brushes prevent motor damage. The Hitachi DH30PC2 comes with a depth gauge, side handle, blow-bulb syringe, and an injection-molded carrying case with room to store bits and accessories.

For more information: Visit www.hitachipowertools.com or call 1-800-829-4752.

Open-Ended, Adjustable Wrench Features Symmetrical Grip

LoggerHead Tools LLC has introduced 6- and 10-in. sizes of the Bionic Grip, an open-ended version of its patented Bionic Wrench. The wrenches automatically fit multiple sizes of fasteners, pipes, and tubes with the squeeze of a hand, reducing the need to have the exact size wrench for a job. The Bionic Grip features four serrated jaw surfaces and an interlock mechanism that stays locked under torque load, as well as an ergonomic design and simple adjustability, without locks, knobs, or adjustments. The symmetrical grip is less likely to distort softer materials. The 8-in. size was introduced in June 2006 as the first open-ended wrench to distribute forces 240 degrees over a work surface. A set of three covers 35 metric and standard fastener sizes, as well as pipes and tubes from 5/16-in. to 1 ¼-in. (out diameter).

For more information: Visit www.loggerheadtools.com.

Handheld Carbon Monoxide Meter Introduced

General Tools Mfg. Co. LLC has released a new handheld digital carbon-monoxide meter, model DCO1001. The battery operated meter features a new electromechanical CO sensor with three points of auto calibration: 0, 100, and 500 ppm, as well as auto zero, auto calibration, and adjustable alarm settings. The meter has a backlit LCD display and simultaneously exhibits dual readings of CO and max hold, updated every second. Other features include high repeatability, adjustable alarm settings, and an audible alert which triggers above 35 ppm to indicate a dangerous CO concentration. The meter has a measuring range of 0-1000 ppm.

For more information: Visit www.generaltools.com.

Small Inspection Camera Works in Hard-to-Reach Places

Ridge Tool Co. introduces the SeeSnake micro-inspection camera, which allows users to view anything that lies in a hard-to reach, obstructed, or tight space. The professional-grade adjustable tool can see into ductwork and walls, around equipment, and behind wiring. Attachable accessories provide more options: The mirror tip provides the ability to look around corners; the hook tip can pick up, tug, or pull small objects within reach of the cable; and the magnetic tip can pick up small metal objects. A high-resolution camera head sits at the tip of a flexible 3-ft. cable that is reinforced with a waterproof vinyl jacket. Users manually control the cable and camera, which relays images back to a 2.5-in. color LCD screen attached to a pistol grip handle. The camera is equipped with fully adjustable LEDs to provide the right amount of light in a variety of situations. It weighs just over 1 lb., and four AA alkaline batteries provide up to three hours of continuous viewing time.

For more information: Visit www.ridgid.com.

Klein Tools Adds Synthetic Pulling Lubricants

Expanding on its line of Premium Synthetic cable and wire-pulling lubricants, Klein Tools recently introduced its Winter Grade pulling lubricant, available in a 1-quart squeeze bottle, 1-gallon pail, and 5-gallon pail; and Premium Synthetic Fiber Optic pulling lubricant, which is available in a 1-quart squeeze bottle and 1-gallon pail. Both lubricants have a non-staining and slow-drying formula, and are non-toxic. Winter Grade is designed to be used in extreme cold weather applications but also performs well in warm temperatures. It can be used in temperatures ranging from -20F to 120F (-29C to 49C). Fiber Optic pulling lubricant meets the unique requirements of pulling lightweight communication and data-network cables.

This year marks Klein Tools’ 150th anniversary. In 1857, Klein Tools’ founder and blacksmith Mathais Klein forged the first-known U.S.-made pliers in Chicago.

For more information: Visit www.kleintools.com.