TERRY O'KELLY The Ridgid RE60 was well received by industry after its European and US launch late last year
After successfully launching the new Ridgid RE60 three-in-one electrical tool in Europe and the US late last year, US-based hand-held tools manufacturer Ridge Tool Company will this month make the product available for the South African market through local industrial products supplier Dowson & Dobson Industrial.
The Ridgid RE60, developed in the US and imported from Ridge Tool Company’s offices in Belgium, features three functions that can be performed with one tool, including the ability to cut electrical cables up to 50 mm in diameter, the ability to secure clamps onto cables of up to 300 mm2 and the ability to punch holes into steel electrical cabinets.
The tool, which allows for work in tighter spaces as a result of its slim and ergonomic latching system and is targeted at on-the-job electrical contractors and companies that prepare electrical cables for sale, was well received by the industry, says Dowson & Dobson Industrial director Terry O’Kelly.
The RE60 battery-operated electrical toolkit includes two 18 V advanced lithium batteries, a 230 V charger in a case, which delivers an industry-leading run time, and various available head configurations. Its battery sensor alerts the user when power is running low.
In addition to having the convenience of one tool perform three functions, other benefits of the Ridgid RE60 include its speed and flexibility, which saves contractors time.
The tool also features on-board diagnostics, which ensure that clamps are properly secured onto the cable; a 360° head rotation that increases manoeuvrability; rubber-moulded grips for superior comfort and support; and a Ridgid Quickchange System that saves time.
The Ridgid Quickchange System allows quick interchanging of heads that offer contractors unprecedented versatility and speed. No tools are required for changing heads, which ensures quick and easy switching between cutting wire, crimping lugs and punching holes.