InfraStructures - March 2007

Hilti Turns 40

Drilling in concrete and masonry was slow and strenuous until 1967, when Hilti revolutionized the drilling process with the introduction of its first electropneumatic rotary hammer, the legendary Hilti TE 17. By allowing drill bits and chisels to hammer their way into concrete with ease, this innovation took a 90 minute job and made it a 90 second job. Since then, continuous Hilti innovation has resulted in hammer drills with ever-increasing efficiency, reliability and comfort.

Right from the start, to ensure that these tools were capable of withstanding tough, everyday jobsite use, Hilti rotary hammers were equipped with not only an electropneumatic hammering mechanism, but also a robust chuck, which incorporated a roller locking mechanism that allowed impact energy to be transferred directly to a drill bit's connection end. This fully enclosed system brought other advantages, including sealing against dust entry and permanent lubrication, which greatly reduced the need for maintenance. To further reduce unnecessary wear on the motor, the Hilti TE 17 was equipped with a mechanical slip clutch to prevent the motor from suddenly stalling in the event the bit hit steel reinforcement.

The 1967 invention of electropneumatic hammering technology has inspired Hilti technology development ever since. The next Hilti technological breakthrough was the introduction of the industry's first Active Torque Control (ATC). ATC provides added operator protection by constantly monitoring the tool's status and disengaging the drive system if it senses the housing beginning to rotate too quickly. If a drill bit binds and causes rapid rotation of the tool body, ATC stops the tool in a fraction of a second and helps prevent the operator from losing control of the tool.Technological advances like electropneumatic hammering and ATC contributed greatly to the sophisticated construction process known today. With a continued focus on increasing productivity and safety, concrete contractors can take comfort in the fact that Hilti will continue striving to improve working conditions through innovation and technology.

And Hilti innovation does not stop at electric tools. More ground-breaking success was achieved through the introduction of drill bits with a welded solid carbide head and the new polygon chisels, while innovative services such as Hilti Fleet Management and Hilti Lifetime Service have also been launched with great acclaim. Unique in this industry, Hilti Lifetime Service covers the entire life of the product, comprehensive service and maximum cost control. And thanks to Fleet Management, Hilti customers always have access to the most technically advanced, safest tools.

Additionally, in 2007, Hilti will introduce a range of new tools, including rotary hammers and breakers with even greater performance and durability, as well as an optimized Active Vibration Reduction (AVR) system that makes these tools less tiring to use.

Source: Hilti, Inc.