Power tools come in a wide variety of types, such as air compressors, alligator shears, angle grinders, bandsaws, belt sanders, biscuit joiners, chainsaws, circular saws, concrete saws, cold saws, crushers, diamond blades, diamond tools, disc cutters, disc sanders, drills, floor sanders, food processors, grinding machines, heat guns, hedge trimmers, impact drivers, impact wrenches, irons, lathes, lawnmowers, leaf blowers, miter saws, multi-tools, nail guns, needle gun scalers, pneumatic torque wrenches, powder-actuated tools, power wrenches, pressure washers, radial arm saws, random orbital sanders, reciprocating saws, rotary saws, rotary tools, rotary tillers, sabre saws, sanders, scroll saws, sewing machines, snow blowers, steel cut off saws, string trimmers, table saws, thickness planers, vacuum cleaners, wall chasers, washing machines, wood routers, etc.
We require a more straightforward and effective system to categorise the tools because the list is limitless. You can categorise the wide range of tools using the three approaches shown below.
There are 3 essential types of power tools, which are as follows:
1. Power tools as per the power source
- Electric tools
These tools use electricity to power their motors, as their name suggests. They account for 85% of all power tool production because of their adaptability, accessibility, and affordable prices. They are also the preferred choice of homeowners since, unlike fuel-powered tools, they may be utilised in inside spaces without danger.
Two types of electric tools exist:
- Corded, that are plugged directly into an outlet.
- Cordless, using a previously charged battery.
- Fuel-powered tools
Fuel tools are used with combustion engines that are propelled by liquid fuel, most frequently gasoline or gasoline oil. They often weigh more and require more maintenance than their electric counterparts but typically provide greater power. Because of this, this kind of tool is used increasingly frequently in the industrial sector.
- Hydraulic tools
Hydraulic tools work by regulating the flow of a pressurised fluid—typically an oil or water-glycol mixture—to a motor, which transforms it into a mechanical output. Despite being more expensive and requiring more maintenance, hydraulic-powered tools perform better than mechanical and electrical tools and can generate more power than similar systems of equal size.
- Pneumatic tools
Pneumatic tools, also known as air-powered tools or pneumatic-powered tools, are a class of equipment that is propelled by compressed air provided by an air compressor. The carbon dioxide that has been compressed into little cylinders can also power this type of gadget.
Most pneumatic tools use a pneumatic motor to transform compressed air into work. Pneumatic power tools provide a better power-to-weight ratio than electric power tools, which enables a smaller, lighter tool to complete the same task while also being safer to use and easier to maintain. They also pose no risk of sparks, short circuits, or electrocution. They also have a lower propensity to self-destruct if the tool becomes blocked or overworked.
2. Power Tools as per the technical requirements
- Household
Household-grade power tools are designed for homeowners who prefer to complete their own home-based projects. They are more powerful and durable but cost less money.
- Industrial
This is the strongest and most important equipment. It is also referred to as heavy-duty power tools; however, that term is somewhat debatable. They are designed specifically for daily high performance over long periods of time. This kind of equipment frequently comes with extended warranties and unique features that improve overall performance.
3. Power Tools as per the portability
- Stationary
Stationary power tools can be large machines that are difficult to move or machines that must be securely fastened to a stationary object, such as the floor or a wall, in order to function properly. These tools typically have the advantages of accuracy, strength, and smoothness.
- Portable
Comparatively, portable power tools are simple to transport from one place to another and are typically light enough to be operated while being held in the hands. At the moment, these tools are dominating the market.
We hope the above classifications would help to distinguish between the widely available tools in the market and assist you in opting for the right tool for the right application.