Screwdriver technology, automation, air motors and air tools supplier Deprag launched a new range of wireless screwdrivers used in the components sector of the automotive industry for screwing and bolting in November, says Deprag Assembly technology manager Herman Parsons.

The screwdriver series consists of three different pistol-grip tools, with a torque range of between 0.8 Nm and 13 Nm and programmable speeds ranging from 30 rpm to 1 500 rpm and the third having a torque range of 2 Nm to 50 Nm.

One of the biggest challenges is that the sector is becoming strict in terms of recording data on safety-critical components, such as air bags, for example.

It features a shut-off accuracy with a Cmk value ≥1.67, which means an error rate of 0.6 errors per one-million screw assemblies and, therefore, meets the quality requirements set by the automotive industry.

Using Bluetooth wireless data transmission, the screwdrivers can receive data from a base station, which is available as an option to clients, and are equipped with a graphic user interface that enables the fast and simple generation of screw- driving sequences.

Further, the base station transmits screwdriver settings and can also receive and archive data received from the screwdriver, says Parsons, adding that it is possible to connect up to four screwdrivers to one base station.

This assists the manufacturer in keeping a record of data and whether assembly has been carried out in the correct way.

He says that, although the automotive industry took a knock as a result of the four-week strike in September, the future prospects of the industry look positive, as the cordless tool sufficiently meets the demands of the automotive industry and is easy for operators to use.

Further, the company recently successfully supplied Deprag equipment to several components manufacturers and is looking forward to expanding its market share in the industry nationally.