When using tools for any kind of electrical work, whether it is removing components, testing components or installing components, it is essential that the user feels comfortable using the tool and that they can manually apply the forces and physical movements necessary. This element of comfort could make the difference between securing the correct connections and ensuring that an electrical circuit is properly installed or made safe. So comfort and functionality in an electrical tool are essential factors and the multi-component handle is an innovative solution to ensure this is achieved.
A multi-component handle describes a type of tool grip that uses two or more materials with the purpose of enhancing comfort and usability. Where a handle has two materials this will typically include a firm plastic core and a softer plastic or rubber material as an outer layer. This combination ensures a tool, such as a pair of pliers or a screwdriver, for example, has sufficient core strength and robustness, but also has comfort and helps the user to firmly grip the tool. Multi-component handles usually depict each material as a different colour for ease of identification. These are usually red and yellow, or red and blue.
Key benefits of a multi-component handle
- Comfort – The materials used on the handle ensure the tool is comfortable to hold, particularly given some tools may require prolonged or repeated use.
- Control – Softer materials used in key areas of the tool handle ensure a firm grip can be applied and prevents the hands slipping. This allows for better control of the tool, particularly where precision and accuracy is required.
- Force – The design of a multi-component handle ensures the user can apply the maximum force required without straining themselves or the tool.
- Durability – The combination of appropriate materials helps the longevity of the tool and ensures it is robust, accurate and reliable for longer and provides good value for money.
- Safety – Multi-component handles are designed to insulate the user against any live currents they may come into contact with in the course of their work. These materials can also insulate against extreme temperatures and extreme weather conditions you may be working in.
- Variety – A number of multi-component handles exist which have specialist materials for specialist requirements. These are tailored to help the user with specific conditions they come across and unique challenges in certain tasks and operations.
Popular tool manufacturers regularly use multi-component handles to provide the user with control, comfort and durability, such as with the KN 98 25 02 SL slim posidriv screwdriver manufactured by KNIPEX and supplied by Test Instrument Solutions.
KNIPEX have introduced a third component to some of their tools and this optimises the tactile properties to improve the handling capabilities of tools with multi-component handles. These tools have a third material that has a specially structured surface texture which provides even better non-slip grip and control by improving the ergonomic comfort. KNIPEX intend to gradually convert their range of tools to include this third material component on all tools where it is appropriate and beneficial. For KNIPEX tools where there is a third component, this additional material will be denoted in a grey colour.
Please note that this section is for information purposes only. Anyone using equipment referred to in this section must be suitably qualified and/or experienced within the respective field. If in doubt before use, please consult a qualified electrician or engineer & thoroughly read all instruction booklets.