Author: Bolor

Light towers are the critical “backbone” of construction, mining and outdoor public event sites,  providing illumination for a wide range of applicat 

ions and projects that require hours of darkness or poor visibility. Crucially, they ensure that workers are able to complete these jobs efficiently and safely. Therefore, purchasing or leasing is a big decision and there are several factors to consider before choosing a light tower

Here are five key factors you should focus on when choosing a light tower to purchase or lease:

1. Should I choose an LED light tower?

To determine the best model, it is recommended to first evaluate the site and space that needs to be illuminated; and to consider how long the light tower will be used. For example, when a larger space needs to be illuminated or an area needs to be illuminated for a longer period of time, it is recommended that LED technology be considered. LED towers require only about 1,400 watts of power to illuminate an area of up to 5,000 square meters, while metal halide towers require about 4,000 watts. Lighting 4,000 sq. meters. (43,055 sq. ft.) In terms of ruggedness, LED lamps have a higher durability than metal halide, with an expected lifetime of more than 50,000 operating hours. Therefore, for extreme environments or heavy-duty use, such as construction or mining, LED is the recommended choice as it provides enhanced coverage.

2. What is the right power supply for the light tower?

Another important consideration when choosing a light tower is how it will be powered. If the workplace has easy access to a power source, users may want to consider a purely electric light tower, which represents the latest breakthrough technology due to its excellent plug-and-play capabilities. They allow users to easily connect to any single power source, including auxiliary power, small diesel or gasoline generators or directly to the grid. Some electric light towers also have the advantage of modular connectivity, enabling up to nine light towers to be powered by a single generator in some models. This provides greater service and maintenance efficiency; helping to reduce the total cost of ownership.

In addition, purely electric light towers are not only quieter and more environmentally friendly, as they have a smaller footprint than diesel options, but also ensure that lighting operations are carried out without interrupting refueling or the additional maintenance required to repair mechanical components.

On the other hand, light towers powered by engines or other energy sources such as diesel are the best choice when working in remote areas where electricity supply is limited or non-existent. However, it is still important to consider models that offer low fuel consumption to avoid constant refueling. This will not only reduce their environmental footprint, but will also help ensure that the project is cost effective.

3. What about masts?

Light towers with vertical masts are replacing horizontal mast versions worldwide. This is because the former can be transported and deployed vertically, making transportation and installation safer. As a result, light towers with vertical masts have a reduced footprint and can transport up to 22 units on a single truck.

To select the best mast for your project needs, you must look at the application. For example, if the light tower is used for a time-sensitive rental project, then a hydraulic mast is the ideal choice. This is because the mast can be raised or lowered with the push of a button, which helps reduce downtime and increase productivity through simpler, safer and faster operation. Recent technological advances have also seen the development of light towers equipped with hydraulic masts that retract automatically in high winds to ensure site safety.

4. Service requirements

Well-designed light towers should also make it easy to access all service and repair parts without having to remove the canopy. More specifically, they should ensure that engines, alternators, control panels and emission points are easily accessible; as access to these areas on some light towers can take a long time.

Conclusion

A few years ago, some people considered lighthouses to be a simple commodity with a limited life expectancy. Today, however, the durability and value of light towers has increased as a result of the variety of options now available. Users no longer need to compromise by accepting a one-size-fits-all solution. Ultimately, the choice of lighthouse depends on the end user’s individual needs. Therefore, buyers are advised to work with the manufacturer to ensure they select the right product for their specific application. In doing so, it is important to consider all the variables for which a light tower will be deployed, such as location, specific operating environment and environmental conditions, power source, site size and required coverage.

A limited number of PTL4 model light towers from the Italian brand PRAMAC have just arrived at MSM Industrial.

For more information, please call 7718-1111.

There are many advantages to using cordless tools; the key benefit is usually their portability. Having no cord means they can be used wherever, without having to worry if there is a nearby socket or trip hazards caused by cables. As they aren’t being weighed down by long, heavy cables, cordless equipment is generally lighter to work with and easier to store which makes it a popular choice. In addition to being extremely convenient, cordless equipment is also very efficient as the batteries are usually lithium ion which are capable of holding a lot of power which has minimal diminishing over time, even when the tool isn’t in use. Winter tool care is always important but one of the only things which can cause problems for cordless equipment is cold weather; cold weather can cause cordless batteries to refuse to take charge or stop them working entirely so it is important to follow some top tips in order to keep your cordless tools working in winter.

Prepare Tools for Charging

One of the issues with the colder weather for batteries is that it can prevent them from charging. A cordless battery is less likely to charge if it is cold, so it is important to warm up the battery before charging to prevent any issues. Lithium Ion batteries generate heat when in use, so it is advisable to give the tools some light use before charging the battery so that it has some heat to it already.

Keep the Battery Warm

As mentioned, the problems that can arise with cordless batteries in the winter are all due to the cold. Therefore, it is essential to do everything you can to keep the batteries warm. Whilst working outside during the winter there are a few things you can do to keep the batteries warm; when the tools are not in use put the battery in your pocket to prevent it getting too cold and you can even buy hand warmers to keep in your tool box if it spends a large amount of time outside.

Don’t Leave Tools

Outside In order to avoid your cordless batteries getting too cold, it is important to keep them inside; don’t leave them in your van overnight as this could be detrimental to the battery. Make sure to bring them inside to keep them warm and safe.  

Charge the Batteries at The Right Time

Rather than letting the batteries drain right down it is important to charge them whenever you lose any power, this way you’ll avoid any nasty surprises if your battery is too cold to charge. As mentioned previously, charge them after they’ve had some light use to make sure they’re warm.

Keep the Battery Clean

Make sure to keep your batteries clean and free from debris as this can cause problems when you come to use and charge them. Make sure to pay special attention to venting to allow for proper cooling and keep up periodic cleaning of the batteries.

MSM Industrial’s ProShack tool store is organizing a “Winter Sale” with a 20% discount on all types of hand and power tools, their storage solutions, and safety equipment from world-renowned brands until December 15, 2024.

For more details about the “Winter Sale” please call 7718-1111.