Tool Box Buzz

World of Concrete 2020 – Makita Tools

Makita showcased several new products at the 2020 World of Concrete in Las Vegas. Each year Makita shows off a large selection of their tools including new releases including some tools that are not necessarily only for the concrete industry. Here are the highlights and some of the new products you can expect in 2020.

Portable Backpack Power Supply

With the explosion in Cordless Outdoor Power Equipment (OPE) the discussion often revolves around run-time. The all-new PDC01 from Makita will address that with a unique Portable Backpack Power Supply that can be attached to virtually any single or double battery LXT tool. As seen below, this backpack holds 4 18V battery packs and connects to either a single or double battery LXT cordless tool with an adapter that fits into the battery slot on the tool. This provides two benefits to users, first it lightens the tool (the adapter is much lighter than the battery packs) and it also provides much longer run-time (twice to four times a much run time).

While it may seem like this turns a cordless tool into a corded one we certainly see the benefits to the new PDC01 in applications like OPE and extended concrete drilling and chipping. This should be available in late February 2020.

New Cordless Impact Wrenches

Probably the most talked-about tool in the Makita booth at the show was the all-new XWT17 mid-torque impact wrench. Makita is introducing three new impact wrenches including the XWT14, XWT15 and XWT17. All feature brushless motors and speed controls along with Auto Stop Forward Mode for increased efficiency when setting anchors, and Auto Stop Reverse Mode to prevent fastener damage and run-off of bolt nuts. XWT14 and XWT15 available late spring 2020. XWT17 available late summer 2020.

XWT17 Mid Torque Impact Wrench (Center)

Dust Extraction Solutions

OSHA dust compliance continues to be a focal point at World of Concrete and Makita continues to release additional dust extraction solutions to provide contractors with a wide range of options for every project.

The highlight of the new dust extraction systems was the all-new 11 Gallon Wet/Dry HEPA Filter Dust Extractor/Vacuum (VC4210). The VC4210L is a best-in-class solution for dust extraction in a full range of applications, including concrete. The VC4210L offers several upgrades over the previous model VC4710 including lower weight and increased airflow (148 CFM), as well as a lower center of gravity and wider base for stability and mobility. The 2-stage filtration system is OSHA compliant and features easy access for convenient filter changes, and the OSHA-compliant filter-cleaning mechanism uses reversed air, not “knocking”, for efficient cleaning and longer filter life. A full range of accessories will be offered, including a 12” Concrete Slurry Floor Nozzle (sold separately). (available now)

New Cordless Cut-Off Saw

Over the last year or so we’ve seen several new cordless cut-off saws hit the market. This new category is proving to be quite a hit with remodelers and general contractors that need a cutting solution with the noise and fumes of a gas-powered saw. Makita has announced their all-new 18V X2 LXT (36V) Brushless 9” Power Cutter (XEC01). The new XEC01 eliminates the hassles of gas in a cordless concrete cutting solution – 18V X2 (36V) LXT technology allows for lower noise, immediate starts, and reduced overall maintenance. With zero emissions, the XEC01 allows for use in indoor environments. The compact size and low weight compared to gas power cutters makes XEC01 the ideal solution for wall or above chest applications. The integrated water delivery system with water flow adjustment knob continuously feeds water for OSHA Table 1 Compliance in concrete cutting applications. (available spring 2020)

New Lighting Solutions

Makita has finally started jumping in more aggressively with Jobsite lighting options. This is a huge category and it’s nice to see them offering up some solid options. The light that really caught our eye was their new 18V X2 (36V) LXT Cordless Upright L.E.D. Area Light (DML810). The DML810 has a self-righting design that keeps it in the upright position. It provides 5,500 lumens on high setting and has 3 range modes: 360 degrees, left 180 degrees, and right 180 degrees. For maximum versatility it offers corded or cordless operation (includes AC power cord), and users can chain multiple lights together with the on-board AC inlet and outlet. (available late February 2020)

They also introduced several other smaller lighting options including a new handheld work light and a couple of smaller task lights that can sit on the ground or be mounted to a tripod. The DML809 work light provides up to 10,000 lumens and the DML811 provides up to 3,000 lumens.

Where to Buy These New Tools

Video Clips from the Show

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