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DEWALT’S POWERSHIFT™ Release

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DEWALT POWERSHIFT™ is a groundbreaking cordless equipment system that optimises the workflow of concrete and construction jobsites through electrification. The highly anticipated electric equipment system meets the critical needs of concrete professionals – power, runtime, and ergonomics – allowing users to transition away from petrol-powered equipment, without compromising efficiency and performance.
The line, which includes a vibrator, backpack vibrator, concrete power screed, rammer, plate compactor, core drill and stand, 554WH battery and 550W charger, has been tested and embraced on jobsites internationally.

In customer testimonials, workers highlight the system’s ease of use, precision, power, light weight, and runtime. One user notes, “Once everyone uses POWERSHIFT, they’re going to realize the ease of use and it’s going to completely change everyone. They’re not going to go back to traditional corded and petrol-powered.”

DEWALT POWERSHIFT™ is backed by DEWALT’s powerhouse portfolio of complimentary tools, accessories, and technology.

SHIFTING PERCEPTIONS
Designed to accelerate adoption of electric solutions, the line is ushering in the next phase of the jobsite of the future.
Since its unveiling at the 2024 World of Concrete Trade Show in Las Vegas, the DEWALT POWERSHIFT™ system has become one of the most anticipated and recognised concrete equipment systems to hit the market, winning numerous awards from top tier and trade media for its industry leading innovation, including:
TIME Magazine Best Inventions of 2024: Recognised in the ‘Sustainability’ category as one of the year’s top 200 new products that are making the world better and smarter.
Fast Company 2024 Innovation by Design Award: Selected as an honorable mention in the ‘User Experience’ category for creativity and unparalleled problem-solving that shapes the world we live in for the better.
Concrete Contractor Top Products of 2024: Recognised as one of the year’s most innovative, ingenious ideas setting contractors up for success in the years to come.
Equipment Today 2024 Contractors’ Top 50 New Products: Winners represent the latest innovative solutions to improve user productivity, efficiency, safety and comfort.
Pro Tool Reviews 2024 Pro Tool Innovation Award: Selected in the ‘Concrete & Masonry’ category for innovative new features and design elements that enhance performance and value proposition for users.

DEWALT POWERSHIFT™ will be available in Australia and New Zealand from February 2025. To learn more, visit: dewalt.com.au

Alpha’s NEW Onsite+ Drills

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These drills are changing the game for onsite work, letting tradies get jobs done faster, with less hassle, and maybe even knock-off early. Tradies have been stoked by the range’s time-saving efficiency.
The Onsite+ Impact Step Tip Step Drill is 6x faster than the market standard, stays sharper for longer thanks to its innovative step-tip design and leaves a clean, burr-free hole every time. In a side-by-side test, the competitor managed only 2.5 holes in nearly 2 minutes before burning out, while the Alpha Onsite+ Impact Step Tip Step Drill powered through 3 perfect holes in just 21.83 seconds!

MEANWHILE, THE ONSITE+ STEP TIP STEP CUTTER HAS GONE VIRAL ON SOCIAL MEDIA
Racking up 1.7 million views on TikTok alone, tradies are amazed at how quickly it slices through stainless steel and other metals, some even calling the videos fake; that’s how unbelievable its performance is!
“We could show this drill bit outperforming on camera a thousand times, and some people just won’t believe it,” Alpha Joel said. “They will say it’s made up or a trick, you have to use this step cutter to understand just how mind-blowing it is.”

SO, WHAT MAKES IT DIFFERENT?
You may be wondering: “How is this any different from a normal step cutter?”
● Unique Step Tip Design: Eliminates the need for pre-drilling and produces perfectly centered, clean-cut, burr-free holes.
● Drill Up To 10mm Thick: Handles high-precision work in sheet metal, and for the first time, you can drill through thicker materials made of
conventional steel up to 1300 N/mm² or 10mm thick workpieces. It’s versatile enough for cast iron, aluminium, brass, bronze, Plexiglass, plastic, and wood.
● Integrated Tapping Sizes: The M4-M12 step cutter covers all core hole dimensions (Ø 3.3–10.2 mm) for precise tapping and through-hole
threads in a single tool.

OTHER GAME-CHANGING FEATURES
● Deburring Eliminated: The next larger step diameter takes care of deburring while drilling.
● Multiple Hole Diameters: Combines a range of hole sizes in a single-step cutter.
● Streamlined Drilling Process: The optimised 4-flute design features high-performance cutting edges that enhance drilling speed.
● Versatile Use: Suitable for cordless drills, handheld drills, and drill presses. Available in sizes 4.0-12.0mm, 3.3-10.2mm (M4-M12), 8.0-0.0mm, and 9.0-19.0mm.
● Smooth Operation: No catching on the workpiece, minimising distortion of sheet metal.
● Effortless Enlargements: Easily bore or enlarge existing drill holes.
● Durable, Low-Wear Design: AlCrN multi-layer coating protects against wear and extends tool life.
● Optimal Chip Removal: Multilayer construction and 4-flute design enhance cutting performance and ensure fast swarf ejection.
● 3-Face Shank: Prevents spinning in the chuck and provides a reliable power transfer.

Ready to revolutionise your drilling game?

The Onsite+ Step Tip Step Cutter is here to make your job faster, easier, and more efficient. Get yours now and see the difference for yourself!

Choosing the right industrial flooring

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Every industrial flooring project is unique. We understand this at Fosroc ANZ, which is why we offer custom industrial flooring solutions. Whether you are resurfacing an underground car park, refurbishing a warehouse or renovating a research facility, we have the products and expertise to support project success.

WHY PRODUCT SELECTION IS IMPORTANT

Andrew Nelson, Fosroc ANZ’s Product Segment Specialist for Flooring and Coatings, says that selecting the right industrial flooring solution is paramount.

“Floors are the hardest working surfaces of any building, so a ‘fit for purpose’ solution is critical,” explains Andrew. “But with such a wide range of flooring products available, it can be confusing to know where to start.”

FIVE FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN SELECTING A FLOORING SOLUTION

According to Andrew, there are five key factors that should be considered before selecting a flooring solution:

Project type – Are you undertaking defect rectification or producing an internal finish? What substrate are you working with?

Expected traffic – What levels of traffic will the flooring have to endure? Heavy vehicle? Foot traffic? Does the surface need to be non-slip?

Environment – Are aesthetics important? Will the flooring be exposed to a corrosive environment or harsh UV light? Will it be overlayed with tiles or carpet? Is waterproofing a requirement? Are VOCs a concern?

Chemical exposure – Will the surface be exposed to harsh industrial chemicals or other corrosive substances?

Hygiene – Are there particular hygiene requirements? Does the floor need HACCP certification for use in the food and beverage industry?

“By taking each of these factors into account, you can be confident you’re selecting the right flooring system for your project,” Andrew says.

FOSROC’S INDUSTRIAL FLOORING OFFERING

Fosroc’s vast flooring product range is the key to delivering tailored, durable and fi t-for-purpose flooring solutions.

Fosroc’s flooring products include:

Nitoflor – a range of urethane cementitious flooring products

Cemtop – polymer modified, cement-based, floor levelling compounds

Patchroc – fast setting floor and pavement patch repair mortar

Paveroc – large area, internal and external pavement repair mortar

SOLUTIONS NOT JUST PRODUCTS

Fosroc partners with builders, asset owners, applicators and specifiers at every stage of a project to work through the performance requirements and deliver a complete industrial flooring solution.

“We provide tailored solutions and make sure all aspects of design and performance are factored in from the start,” Andrew says. “Our sales and technical teams focus on providing the best possible solution for the end user.”

Fosroc’s flooring products are formulated with advanced compounds and additives to satisfy even the most demanding performance requirements.

“We have an industrial flooring solution for every conceivable situation,” Andrew says. “Whether it’s an airport hangar, clean room, car park or bakery, if it’s industrial flooring you need, we can deliver.”

For more industrial flooring information, head to fosroc.com.au.

Is it time to replace your tyres?

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1. WORN TREAD

The tread on your mower wheels can quickly wear down, leading to poor traction.

If your mower is struggling to grip the ground or slipping while turning, it’s a clear sign that your rubber wheels need replacing. Worn tread affects performance and risks damaging your lawn.

2. FREQUENT PUNCTURE

Rubber pneumatic tyres are prone to punctures from sharp objects like rocks, branches, or debris.

If you’re constantly dealing with flat tyres or slow leaks, it’s time to upgrade to more durable, puncture-resistant zero turn wheels.

3. DIFFICULTY STEERING

If your mower is becoming harder to steer, the bearings might be worn out.

This can lead to poor handling and increased wear on other parts of your mower. Replacing the entire wheel assembly, including bearings, can restore your mower’s manoeuvrability and precision.

4. EXCESSIVE VIBRATIONS

Feeling more bumps and shakes than usual?

Excessive vibrations are often caused by damaged or out-of-balance wheels and can create mechanical issues with your mower. Replacing worn or damaged wheels will ensure a smoother, more controlled ride.

Whether you’re a gardening professional or a dedicated homeowner, your Zero Turn Mower is an essential tool. No matter how big or small the job, you need reliable and durable wheels for your trusted mower. Punctures, tread wear, and bearing failures can impact your mower’s performance and lead to poor steering, vibrations, and costly downtime.

Richmond’s range of tough, reliable range of zero turn, puncture-resistant wheels deliver unmatched reliability, performance, and convenience.

MADE FOR THE TOUGHEST JOBS

Richmond’s latest range of zero turn mower wheels are designed to go the distance.

  • Allow for effortless turning without damaging your turf surface
  • Puncture resistance rubber tyre on a powder coated steel hub
  • High quality taper roller bearings can withstand heavy duty mowing

NO MORE DOWNTIME

Our latest collection of zero turn, puncture resistant rubber wheels ensure you can continue mowing with zero delays. For professional mowing services, that means less frustration and more jobs finished!

SIMPLE, FAST DIY INSTALLATION

Specifically designed to make it easy for you to replace your damaged wheel. Complete wheel assembly with tyre, hub, bearing, and axle allows you to quickly replace your damaged wheel – without having to pay or wait for it to be repaired.

ROUTINE MAINTENANCE MADE EASY

Why wait for your custom replacement wheel?

Richmond’s Lawn & Garden range is the perfect ‘in between solution so you can keep mowing and not sacrifice on quality or performance. This will save you time and keep you on schedule.

Pferd’s NEW Ceramic CC-Grind View

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In the world of metalworking, grinding and finishing operations demand precision, speed, and safety. PFERD, a leader in high-performance abrasives, is proud to introduce the CC-Grind View—a revolutionary disc designed to take your grinding processes to the next level. With its innovative features and enhanced performance, the CC-Grind View promises to deliver exceptional results in a variety of industries, from automotive and metal fabrication to welding and surface preparation.

REVOLUTIONARY VIEWING WINDOW FOR ENHANCED CONTROL
One of the most groundbreaking features of the CC-Grind View is its built-in viewing window. This transparent section allows users to monitor the grinding process in real time, providing an invaluable advantage when working with intricate or difficult to reach areas. The ability to see the workpiece clearly while grinding reduces the guesswork and enables operators to achieve more precise, accurate results.
The CC-Grind View offers a clear, unobstructed view of the workpiece.
This means operators can adjust their technique on the fly, ensuring superior finishes without having to stop and check the progress manually.

UNMATCHED GRINDING PERFORMANCE
The CC-Grind View is designed for optimal performance, combining aggressive material removal with a smooth, controlled finish. Engineered with advanced abrasive technology, this disc delivers high stock removal rates while minimizing heat generation and wear. This makes it perfect for a wide range of applications, including surface preparation, weld seam removal, deburring, and finishing.
Whether you are working with steel, stainless steel, or other tough metals, the CC-Grind View offers efficiency that saves both time and money. Thanks to its long-lasting durability, users can count on consistent cutting power throughout the life of the disc. With this exceptional performance, the CCGrind View stands out as a disc that significantly improves productivity and reduces downtime.

SAFETY, COMFORT, AND ERGONOMICS
PFERD’s CC-Grind View doesn’t just prioritize performance—it also places a strong emphasis on safety and user comfort. The ergonomic design and optimal balance of the disc ensure reduced vibrations and a smoother grinding experience, allowing users to work for longer periods without fatigue.
The integrated viewing window further contributes to safe operation, as it helps prevent overloading or mistakes during the grinding process.
Moreover, the disc is engineered to minimize the risk of accidents by providing better control over the tool.
Whether you’re in a high-pressure environment or working on a delicate project, the CC-Grind View offers peace of mind without sacrificing
performance.

A GAME-CHANGER IN METALWORKING
PFERD’s new CC-Grind View is truly a game-changer in the world of grinding tools. By combining visibility, performance, durability, and safety in one advanced disc, it’s set to revolutionize how metalworkers approach grinding. Whether you’re removing burrs, finishing welds, or preparing surfaces, the CC-Grind View enhances the process, delivering a superior result every time.
Take your grinding to new heights with the PFERD CC-Grind View. It’s time to experience precision, performance, and innovation like never before. Try it today and discover why PFERD is the trusted choice for professionals across the globe.

HIT Threaded Rod Cutters

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HIT has been manufacturing hand tools in Japan since 1926. With over 95 years of expertise, HIT has become a global leader in Bolt Cutters, Rod Cutters, and other hand tools for professional users.
When it comes to cutting threaded rods with precision and power, HIT Threaded Rod Cutters set a new industry standard.
Trusted by professionals worldwide, this robust tool is engineered for efficiency, durability and safety, making it the ideal choice for construction, fabrication, and industrial applications.

WHY CHOOSE HIT?
Available in both single and double head configurations to suit your specific needs.
Drop-forged, heat-treated cutting dies crafted from premium-grade steel ensure maximum strength and impact resistance.

● Cuts fast, clean, with precision and eliminates grinding, filing and thread restoring.
● Large range of dies available: 6mm, 8mm, 10mm, 12mm, 1/4”, 1/2”, 5/16”, 3/8”.
● Each die lasts up to 3,000 cuts, with extended life when alternate sides of the die are used.
● Lightweight, ergonomic handles minimise fatigue during prolonged use.
● Pre-drilled mounting hole allow for quick, secure installation on a workbench or other surfaces.
● Made in Japan in an ISO9001/ISO14001 accredited facility.

Built for professionals. Designed to last. Ensure you ask for a HIT Rod Cutter.

MAKITA Framing Nailer

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Introducing the Makita 18V Brushless 90mm Framing Nailer (DBN900) – the ultimate solution for precision and power in framing. The DBN900 features an innovative air spring firing mechanism, delivering rapid-fire capability of up to 90mm nails at a rate of 2 nails per second. Whether in sequential or bumpfire mode, this nailer ensures high efficiency on every job site.

With a spring drive motor, the DBN900 offers an impressive runtime of up to 1,000 nails on a single 6.0Ah battery charge, keeping you productive without constant recharging. It also includes a depth driving adjustment, allowing you to easily control the nail depth for flawless results on any surface. The anti-dry fire lockout mechanism protects the tool from misfiring when only 7-9 nails remain, ensuring smoother operation and minimizing downtime. The Makita DBN900 brings reliability, speed, and precision to your framing tasks.

  • Air spring mechanism – the brushless motor enhances air spring compression, enabling the driving of nails up to 90 mm with a responsiveness similar to a pneumatic nailer.
  • Operation mode – users can pick between two modes: full sequential actuation for single nails and contact actuation for continuous nailing.
  • LED joblight – the single LED has preglow and afterglow functions, lighting up when the contact element is pressed. In Contact Actuation Mode for continuous nailing, the light turns on when the trigger is pulled.
  • Depth adjuster – the depth can be adjusted using a dial located at the top of the nose, making it suitable for various applications.
  • Hooks – equip with both a belt hook and rafter hook, measuring 38mm wide making it ideal for hanging the tool from ladders, scaffolding, and timbers.
  • Anti dry fire mechanism – the anti-dry fire mechanism activates before the nail count hits zero, preventing missed shots. This ensures smoother operation and saves time.
  • 58 Nail capacity – the magazine can hold up to 58 clipped head nails, making it ideal for longer jobs.
  • Anti slip Nose – the tip is designed to minimize slipping when driving nails at an angle, reducing potential damage to the material and enhancing safety.

It shouldn’t take this long to build a home

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Master Builders Australia has released new analysis of Australian Bureau of Statistics data which shows detached home and apartment building times continue to blow out.
Fifteen years ago, it took on average nine months to build a standalone house. Fast forward to today and it now takes 12.7 months—an increase of over 40 per cent.
It’s even more grim for apartment building with an average of 18.5 months from approval to completion to a whopping 33.3 months—an increase of 80 per cent.
CEO Denita Wawn said these extended construction timeframes are impacting the industry’s ability to meet housing demand and tackle the housing crisis.
“With advancements in technology and construction methods, we should be building homes faster, not slower. There are a range of contributing factors including labour shortages, declining productivity, union pattern agreements, supply chain disruptions, complex regulatory requirements, occupational certificate backlogs and critical infrastructure delays.
“As a result, we’ve seen productivity decline by 18 per cent over the last decade. Productivity is more than an economic buzzword. This data
proves what happens in a construction environment without meaningful reform,” Wawn added.
Master Builders is calling for action to address these bottlenecks and inefficiencies in the construction process.
“Streamlining regulatory approval processes, encouraging adoption of digital solutions, introducing incentives to grow the workforce through domestic and international means, and strengthening the domestic supply chain are just some examples,” Wawn said.

How government can help prefab

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The Federal Government’s recent announcement of targeted action aimed at supporting greater uptake of prefab, modular and other innovative forms of construction has been welcomed by the industry.

“The initiative will help build momentum towards the adopting of innovative forms of construction practices, which can play an important role in addressing Australia’s housing shortages and boosting productivity,” said HIA chief executive, Industry and Policy, Simon Croft.

“HIA has been advocating extensively over the past few years on the need to develop more tailored rules for these forms of construction as regulatory roadblocks have currently hindered their adoption, delaying projects and impacting on construction costs.”

Part of the announcement includes mention that the Federal Government is working with states and territories and key industry bodies to clear bottlenecks and cut red tape that is preventing housing being delivered faster, which industry has long called for.

“Today’s announcement is an important initiative to help unlock further housing supply. It additionally illustrates that there is no single solution to these issues, and instead reforms and targeted measures across all areas of policy are needed to address the nation’s housing needs,” Croft concluded.

No relief for construction costs until 2028

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A new report from consultant WT forecasts costs will continue to escalate due to a number of factors, including ongoing economic weakness, lingering supply chain pressures and elevated levels of projects starts.

According to WT’s latest Australian Construction Market Conditions Report, cost escalation forecast to 2027 remains stubbornly elevated, around five per cent per annum on average nationally. “Our three-year base-case outlook includes a forecast of an average around 5.5 per cent in 2024 across capital city markets for building, remaining above five per cent through 2026 despite a broader moderation in construction activity, before jumping to 5.7 per cent in 2027,” WT’s construction economist Damon Roast said.

“From a weighted national average of 4.8 per cent this year, we forecast escalation in infrastructure to move back around the 5.5 per cent mark to 2026, remaining above five per cent in 2027.

“Our base-case outlook is for recovery in construction activity and the broader economy to become quite apparent by 2026. This would make the necessary and overdue increase in sector investment more attractive, likely paying dividends in the form of downward pressure on escalation from 2028,” Roast added.

“However, labour remains the most pivotal input to cost escalation, with the outcome of recent EBA negotiations in the larger states to underpin elevated wages growth until at least FY2027/28.”

According to Roast, the most likely implications and risks to the outlook include that housing for key workers (which include construction workers) remains difficult to secure, costly or both.

The overall view in our report is based on the premise that persistent elevated construction cost escalation is “simply not sustainable”, Roast said.

“A return to the long-term escalation average heading back towards three per cent is possible from 2028, but this is contingent on the necessary investment in the sector’s capability coming through.”