Winner's Gallery - Tools
Gold
The TapeMaster
The primary function of the TapeMaster is to separate and roll up HVAC tape adhesive backing onto an independent roll. Its primary users include HVAC installers of flex duct, duct board and spiral pipe. After loading the tape into the TapeMaster, the gun takes over for the contractor. Once the secondary take up roll is full, they simply remove it from the TapeMaster, reinsert it and continue with their job. The TapeMaster was designed to look like a standard tape gun, but with the patented secondary take up roller it separates itself from virtually all other tape guns.
Supreme Industries
www.thetapemaster.com
Silver
8:1 Energy Audit IR Thermometer/Scanner with Star Burst Laser Targeting
The new 8:1 Energy Audit IR Thermometer/Scanner with Star Burst Laser Targeting (IRTC50) from General Tools & Instruments (General®) allows the user to designate a set point and determine whether subsequent readings are within or outside selectable ranges from that set point. The unique star burst laser targeting system allows the user to easily determine the area being measured. The device also allows its user to automatically acquire a reference temperature and determine, with its tri-colored light system and audible alarm, whether subsequent readings are above or below the set-point value.
General Tools & Instruments
www.generaltools.com
Bronze
Vic-Press
Vic-Press is an industrial-grade solution for quickly and reliably joining small-diameter piping systems. It eliminates the need to purchase specialty pipe. It offers increased strength and durability and improved flow characteristics compared to light-wall tube systems; safer, more efficient pipe assembly than welding, threading and flanging; and meets or exceeds industry standards. The system requires 70 percent fewer contractor-hours than welding, and significantly reduces rework. No flame or arc is required, reducing risk to workers and surroundings. The Vic-Press system is quick, simple and safe to install.
Victaulic
www.victaulic.com
Honorable Mention
Fluke TiR125 Thermal Imager
The Fluke TiR125 offers multiple features. It has an exclusive IR-OptiFlex™ focus system that helps ensure the images are in good focus from 1.2 m (4 ft) and beyond for optimum image clarity and scanning convenience. The TiR125 also features IR-PhotoNotes™ annotation system. Users can quickly identify and keep track of inspection locations by adding digital images of important information and surrounding areas.
The IR-Fusion with AutoBlend™ feature accurately identifies potential issues by combining digital and IR images. It blends digital and partially transparent IR images into a single information-filled image. The tool has multi-mode video recording that delivers focus-free video in visible light and infrared with full IR-Fusion. It also communicates the location of problems with the Electronic Compass (8-Point Cardinal).
Fluke Corp.
www.fluke.com
