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Executive Report: Driven by market forces Several of Bosch’s latest launches are targeted at the hire industry. Phil Mist, EHN’s power tools specialist, reports from the manufacturer’s German headquarters. With the decline of the Cologne Spring Fair, manufacturers have explored new ways of launching products to worldwide markets. Bosch recently held its first international press conference at its head office in Leinfelden, outside Stuttgart, attended by journalists from throughout Europe and as far afield as Russia and Israel. Apparently, 36% of Bosch’s annual tool sales are achieved from products launched within the last two years. This suggests designers are working overtime to improve features offered on power tools, driven by market forces. Amongst the latest launches is the GSH 16 16kg breaker. First seen as a pre-production model at the Executive Hire Show, I was able to use it (albeit very briefly) during the factory visit. The rear handle is spring mounted to reduce vibration (Bosch quotes an EN60745 tri-axial rating of 10m/s2) and, when fitted with one of the company’s latest self-sharpening points, was comfortable to use. Single impact energy is 45 joules. Further hands-on testing will be carried out in the future to verify the company’s claim that the machine is of major importance to the hire industry. Also displayed were new 125mm-diameter mini grinders, one of which is powered by a 1100watt motor, the other four having 1500watt motors. A bonded abrasive grinding disc, cutting off wheel or, indeed, a diamond blade can be changed in seconds since the machines incorporate Bosch’s SDS-Clic tool-free clamping system. The side handle has a vibration dampening mechanism, and the front gear housing can be repositioned at 90° if required. Bosch’s Kick Back Stop system ensures that, in the event of the disc or blade jamming, the power instantly drops, stopping the machine immediately. Bosch claims to have been the first manufacturer to launch 36V cordless tools powered by Lithium-Ion batteries. Now available from several other manufacturers, the company must look to its laurels if it is to stay ahead. Joining the existing 2kg 36V cordless hammer drill is the GKS 36V-Li 165mm circular saw. It certainly cuts at a high rate and seems to have plenty of power in reserve. Weighing only 4.75kg including the battery, it is easy to use. Also new is the GSA 36V reciprocating saw weighing in at just 4.24kg including the battery, and it also cuts well. Accessories contribute more than €8.8billion (approximately £6m) to Bosch’s annual turnover. New additions include the self-sharpening chisels and points referred to earlier. They might wear too quickly for some hirers’ liking, but if they stay sharper, then a job can be completed in less time and the operator’s exposure to vibration will be reduced. So these new introductions might be good sales items. Bosch also introduced new diamond blades designed to emit less dust, thanks to a simple plastic insert and a couple of holes strategically placed on the blade. They also emit up to 30% less vibration, it is claimed. This still has to be verified in the UK, but if substantiated (and it is difficult to find a reliable test method), then this is a significant step in reducing vibration levels experienced by operators of angle grinders. Finally, the new 4900 Skil reciprocating saw, powered by a 1050watt motor and incorporating the SDS-Clic blade fixing system, does not have orbital action, but instead relies on the power of its motor to achieve a satisfactory rate of cut. This looks a substantial machine and may help to resurrect the profile of this once legendary brand. • T
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834466 Executive Hire News › Archives › April 2007 › Executive Report › Driven by market forces
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