In the world of electrical work, especially when dealing with high – voltage situations, safety is of utmost importance. Over the past few years, there has been a significant shift towards insulated hand tools in the electrical trade. This trend is expected to continue as these tools become more comfortable and their design more closely resembles that of traditional hand tools. Until now, the cordless power tool market lacked options in this regard, but GreenLee has changed the game with the launch of its Insulated Gator Tools.
The Value Proposition
When compared side – by – side with traditional GreenLee Gator tools, the insulated versions come at a minimal cost increase and add only a negligible amount of weight. However, they offer a tremendous amount of value. The yellow and orange design makes them easy to distinguish from the non – insulated models. These tools are compatible with the Makita 18V Battery platform, which simplifies the process of finding replacement batteries and chargers. GreenLee is a well – respected name in the electrical trade, and these cordless insulated tools use the same reliable internal hydraulic components that have withstood years of field use.
The Insulation Technology
GreenLee’s Insulated Gator Tools feature a Tri – Insulation Barrier, a patent – pending technology. This consists of three layers of protection. First, the housing material is made of PA6 insulation. Second, the heads have a 12.5mm creepage distance. Third, dielectric hydraulic oil is used. Each unit undergoes dielectric testing for 1000V conformance, with a 10x testing criteria during the production process. However, it’s important to note that like all insulated tools, they must be regularly inspected and tested to ensure continuous protection for the user.
Why Insulate Cordless Tools?
In the daily tasks of an electrician, a single mistake can lead to serious injury or even death. Therefore, it’s essential to look for safety improvements at every level. Insulated cordless tools offer the same feel and functionality as their non – insulated counterparts, with only a small difference in cost. Electricians often face real – life situations such as working near live circuits, using improperly grounded equipment, working in confined spaces, dealing with wet conditions, or having to work on damaged insulation. In some cases, they may need to carry out work “hot” or when it’s not possible to disconnect the power source. Insulated cordless tools provide an added layer of safety in these scenarios.
The GreenLee i – press App
All of the new Gator insulated tools, as well as newer Gator X – gen tools, come with the i – press app. This app is compatible with both iOS and Android phones. It allows users to personalize their tools and review tool performance. Additionally, it keeps a record of all completed activities, such as crimps. Users can send this data from the mobile app or connect directly to a laptop or desktop for more in – depth analysis. The app also offers user and asset tracking, although it currently does not have GEO targeting, GEO fencing, or remote shut – off capabilities. However, these features could potentially be added in future software updates.
We inquired about the possibility of expanding the insulation tool lineup. While no specific information was provided, it seems logical for GreenLee to expand this line to include other common electrician tools with insulated properties. Since the initial tools share similar hydraulic design features that are already popular with the Gator Tools, this was a natural first step.
Related topics:
- Product Overview – Gator Insulated Tools – Greenlee
- Greenlee Gator insulated cutters and crimpers
- Greenlee Gator Insulated 18V Hydraulic Cutting
