Proportioning the Compressed Air Dryer
Trying to figure out which air dryer capacity is best for you? Here are some factors to consider. Read More…
7 simple steps to ensure operator safety
1. Limit vibrations and noise
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Excessive
vibrations and noise can have devastating long-term consequences for an operator. For example, prolonged exposure to vibrations can lead
to hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) which can result in a loss of sensation in the hand. At the same time, extremely loud noises or
continued exposure to loud noises can result in loss of hearing.
The toolβs vibration level and the length of exposure time are the two key factors that indicate whether an operator will be at risk from
HAVS. Vibration and noise can both be minimized by choosing tools with low levels, evaluating the work pattern and wearing appropriate PPE,
such as ear protectors.
2. Check that the tools have appropriate safety features:
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- GrindersΒ β Key safety features on these tools are overspeed shut-off functions, autobalancers and guards. The first βΒ overspeed shut offΒ β prevents a grinding wheel from speeding faster that it should, and therefore it reduces the risk of disc burst which would ultimately injure the user. Secondly,Β autobalancersΒ stabilize a tool, greatly reducing vibration. Finally, guards protect the operator from any shrapnel in case the disc breaks apart.Β
- Impact wrenchesΒ β An important feature to consider is the torque limited function which enables torque level control, mainly on tightening applications where torque control is essential, such as tire changing or shipyards.Β Tools whose torque is limitedΒ by an air flow modification have lower vibration than those with a mechanical modification.
3. Perform regular maintenance
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Regular
servicing is vital when ensuring the safety of equipment as a tool that is well looked after and properly maintained will have less risk
of failing.Β Maintenance
should be carried out according to the toolβs manual,
for example, components that wear most frequently and therefore need maintaining in grinders are the blades and bevel gears. Blades should
be inspected every 500 hours, and the interval for bevel gears is every 1,000 β 2,000 hours depending on the tool.
4. Know how to use the tools safely
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Always
follow manufacturersβ recommendations and best practice on tool usage. Ensure operators are fully trained to use equipment safely and to
follow the companyβs agreed safety procedures. Furthermore, make sure you are using the right tool and abrasive for the job.
5. Wear appropriate PPE
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Personal
protection equipment (PPE) helps to shield the operator against potential hazards. It is critical that operators always use all
recommended safety equipment when operating pneumatic tools, including sturdy gloves to protect hands from the elements, helmets and
safety goggles in case of any debris, and ear protectors for noise.
6. Make sure the environment is safe
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Consider
the environment surrounding the job and ensure you take appropriate precautions. For example, is it a confined space, or is the job at
height? Grinding can create fine dust particles, which if inhaled can cause health and safety issues for the operator. Therefore, always
grind in a well-ventilated space. Also, always ensure that the workpiece is secure, and you have a stable operating position.
7. Ensure you have a good air line set up
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Think about the whole tool system including the air line. All pneumatic tools require clean, lubricated air and a dynamic pressure of 90 PSI
(6.3 bar) to work safely. If the pressure is any higher than this, it could negatively affect the toolsβ lifespan and risk operatorβs
safety. Air pressure can be adjusted with an FRL (filter, regulator, lubricator) so it is important to include one in the air system near
the tool.
By considering these seven points you will improve safety associated with using tools in the workplace, therefore protecting operators. An
additional benefit to these responsible practices is that you will improve efficiency too!
Browse our air tools here
CP7769 Heavy Duty 3/4" Impact Wrench, Max Torque 1950 Nm
$1,095.00 NZD exc.
$1,259.25 NZD inc.
$1,259.25 NZD inc.
CP7763 3/4" Super Duty Impact Wrench, Max Torque 1,630 Nm
$948.27 NZD exc.
$1,090.51 NZD inc.
$1,090.51 NZD inc.
CP7762 3/4" Stubby Impact Wrench, Max Torque 1420 Nm
$820.87 NZD exc.
$944.00 NZD inc.
$944.00 NZD inc.
CP7737 1/2" Angle Impact Wrench, Max Torque 300 Nm
$500.00 NZD exc.
$575.00 NZD inc.
$575.00 NZD inc.
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PIT TOOLS LU-9040H 90 Series 18 Gauge Narrow Crown Stapler
$414.03 NZD exc.
$476.13 NZD inc.
$476.13 NZD inc.
PIT TOOLS LU-50F Combination Brad Nailer - Narrow Crown Stapler
$390.80 NZD exc.
$449.42 NZD inc.
$449.42 NZD inc.
Ash Air has been around in New Zealand since 1979, and weβve grown into a nationwide company with international support and a
reputation for quality and reliability.We look after all things compressed air for your business!
Ash Air's range of Chicago Pneumatic, Alup, Pneumatech, and Quincy compressors are used extensively around the world in industries
ranging from oil and gas to food, automotive and farming, and we bring you these world class compressors here in the land of the long white
cloud.Our technicians are compressed air equipment experts and are dedicated to addressing customer needs. Supported by a 13 locations
nationwide, Ash Air offers one of the widest selections of compressed air equipment and parts available today in New Zealand.
With Ash Air compressors, you can count on reliability and high performance for even the most demanding applications. We focus our
efforts on the following:
Talk to the team today:
Maintenance budget: 8 factors to consider
Just like any other equipment, a compressed air installation also requires the necessary maintenance work during its entire
lifespan. Even though maintenance costs are only about 5 to 10% of a machine's annual operating costs, failure to budget for
maintenance can have potentially disastrous consequences.
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The air dyer is one of the most ignored cooler in the system. A dirty condenser will cause water in the lines, or worse it will cause
complete dryer failure.
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Why Replace CO2 with Nitrogen in your Brewery
Using nitrogen is not about fully replacing CO2, but it can reduce their consumption of CO2 by close to 70%. Using nitrogen is about
sustainability. Creating your own nitrogen is easy and will reduce the use of a greenhouse gas, which is better for the environment. It will
also save you money as early as month one adding that savings to your bottom line.
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What do I need to know about ICONS?
ICONS: Intelligent Connectivity System: The insight into your compressed air system, wherever you are. Learn More about ICONS in this article here!
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A question that is occasionally asked by our customers to Ash Air is 'what is the cost of compressed air?'Β This article looks at the
product costs involved with compressed air, as well as minimising the energy cost of compressors and cost allocation. When looking at these
factors, we need to realise what causes dropped efficiency of your compressor, leading to increased costs of compressed air.
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How to avoid falling objects when working at heights
You may have great fall protection measures in place to keep employees safe when working at height, but what about their co-workers below?
Dropped tools and other falling objects are a major hazard β and one that isnβt always fully addressed.Β
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Providing a safe working environment for operators is essential, especially when using pneumatic tools and compressed air. If there is a
failure in the air network and the hose is not adequately clamped, the resulting whiplash could be devastating. Failure to follow best
practice can result in injuries, associated production downtime and decreased productivity.
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Why do I need a dryer for my compressor?
A common questions asked is why do I need an air dryer for my compressor? Typically, air compressors produce water, and although the
water can be drained, there can still be aerosol and vapour droplets that are present. This is because water cannoet be compressed. Water
can damage your compressor by corroding the valves, pipes and machinery controls, which will cost you time and money to resolve. In
the long run, the cost of a new compressor is a small price to pay compared to the loss of production that could potentially arise due
to water damage in your compressor.
Do you have an idea for our #expertcorner?Β Let
us know!
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Who we are and how Ash Air can help your business!
Reliability and Efficiency
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