Other Power Tools

About Other Power Tools

When a job demands more than the standard drill, saw, or sander, specialist power tools provide the precision and performance needed to complete challenging tasks across the trades. This category encompasses an innovative range of equipment designed for specific applications—from pipe fitting press tools and concrete grinding planers to suction lifters and vacuum floor sweepers. These aren't everyday tools found in every van, but when your project requires them, nothing else will deliver the same professional results.

Tooled-Up.com stocks professional-grade solutions from industry-leading manufacturers including Makita, Bosch Professional, DeWalt, Ridgid, and Einhell. Whether you're installing modern plumbing systems, handling heavy glass panels, preparing concrete surfaces, or maintaining commercial premises, these specialist power tools are engineered to meet the demanding requirements of tradespeople and serious DIY enthusiasts. From cordless 18V and 40V XGT platforms to robust 240v mains-powered options, each tool combines cutting-edge technology with purpose-built design.

Modern specialist power tools integrate seamlessly with existing battery platforms, allowing tradespeople to standardise their equipment and reduce costs whilst benefiting from brushless motor technology and intelligent power management systems. Many cordless models now rival their mains-powered counterparts for performance, offering the portability essential for site work without compromising on power or runtime. Battery belt systems further extend capabilities, enabling high-demand tools to run from wearable power packs that reduce tool weight and improve user comfort during extended use.

Jargon Buster

• Cordless Platform System: A manufacturer's ecosystem of tools sharing the same battery type (such as Makita XGT or DeWalt XR), allowing one battery to power multiple tools and reducing investment costs whilst standardising charging equipment across your toolkit.
• Brushless Motor: Advanced motor technology that delivers greater efficiency, extended runtime, reduced maintenance requirements, and longer tool life compared to traditional brushed motors. Now standard in professional-grade cordless equipment across all major brands.
• Pipe Fitting Press Tool: A specialised plumbing tool that joins pipework through mechanical pressing rather than soldering or welding, offering faster, safer, and more consistent connections in copper, stainless steel, and multilayer pipe systems with pressing cycles completed in seconds.
• Suction Lifter: A powered or manual device using vacuum technology to safely grip and transport smooth, non-porous materials such as glass, tiles, metal sheets, and large format paving slabs without risk of surface damage or manual handling injury.
• Concrete Planer/Grinder: Heavy-duty equipment designed to remove concrete, level uneven surfaces, prepare floors for coatings, or create grooves for cable and pipe runs in walls and floors with superior dust control compared to standard angle grinders.
• Battery Belt System: Wearable power solution allowing tradespeople to connect high-demand cordless tools to batteries worn on a belt, significantly reducing tool weight and extending runtime for demanding applications throughout the working day.

Who Uses Other Power Tools?

These specialist power tools serve a diverse range of trades and applications:

• Plumbers and Heating Engineers: Pipe fitting press tools for installing modern plumbing systems, particularly in commercial installations and new-build properties where speed and reliability are essential
• Glaziers and Window Fitters: Suction lifters for safely handling and positioning large panes of glass, curtain walling, and heavy glazed units without risk of breakage or manual handling injury
• Groundworkers and Civil Engineers: Concrete planers and grinders for surface preparation, levelling, and creating channels for services in floors and external paving
• Electricians: Groove cutters and concrete planers for creating cable runs in walls and floors whilst maintaining compliance with Part P Building Regulations
• Tilers and Flooring Specialists: Suction lifters for handling large format tiles and heavy stone materials safely, reducing breakage and improving installation efficiency
• General Builders and Maintenance Contractors: Vacuum sweepers and specialist cutting tools for various applications across diverse projects requiring precision equipment
• Facilities Managers: Powered cleaning equipment and maintenance tools for commercial premises, industrial sites, and large-scale property portfolios
• Serious DIY Enthusiasts: Homeowners tackling professional-standard renovation projects requiring specialist equipment beyond standard power tool categories

How to Choose the Right Other Power Tools

Identify Your Application: These specialist tools are designed for specific tasks, so clearly define your requirements before purchasing. Consider the materials you'll work with, frequency of use, and working environment—whether workshop-based, outdoor site work, or domestic installation projects.

Power Source and Battery Compatibility: Cordless tools offer unmatched flexibility for site work and locations without mains access. If you already own tools from a particular battery platform (Makita, DeWalt, Bosch, etc.), choosing compatible equipment maximises your existing battery investment and eliminates the need for multiple chargers. For continuous heavy-duty use, 240v mains-powered options provide consistent performance without runtime limitations.

Professional vs DIY Grade: Professional tools from brands like Makita, Bosch Professional, and DeWalt are engineered for daily commercial use with enhanced durability, longer warranties, and superior performance under demanding conditions. Einhell and other value brands offer excellent solutions for occasional use and lighter-duty applications at more accessible price points.

Capacity and Performance Specifications: Pay attention to technical specifications relevant to your application—pressing force for pipe fitting tools, lifting capacity for suction lifters, cutting depth for planers, and runtime for battery-powered equipment. Ensure the tool's capabilities match your typical job requirements with sufficient margin for more demanding applications.

Ergonomics and Weight: Specialist tools are often used for extended periods, so consider weight distribution, handle design, and vibration levels. Battery belt systems can significantly reduce tool weight for cordless equipment, improving user comfort and reducing fatigue during all-day use on site.

Accessories and Consumables: Check availability and cost of replacement jaws, cutting discs, filters, and other consumables. Some specialist tools require specific accessories for different materials or applications, so factor these additional costs into your overall budget planning.

Popular Accessories

• Press Jaws and Fittings: Application-specific jaws for pipe fitting press tools to accommodate different pipe sizes, materials, and connection systems from various plumbing manufacturers
• Diamond Grinding Wheels and Discs: Essential consumables for concrete planers and grinders, available in various grades for different materials and surface finish requirements
• Suction Pad Replacements: Spare rubber suction pads for lifters to maintain optimal vacuum seal and load capacity, particularly important for safety-critical lifting applications
• Additional Battery Packs: Extra batteries and fast chargers to maintain productivity throughout the working day, especially important for high-demand cordless equipment used continuously on site
• Dust Extraction Attachments: Shrouds and vacuum connections for concrete planers to control silica dust and maintain HSE-compliant working conditions when cutting or grinding
• Threading Dies and Cutting Oils: Consumables for pipe threading machines in various sizes to suit different pipe diameters and materials for traditional threaded connections
• Carrying Cases and Storage: Manufacturer-specific storage solutions (Makita MakPac, DeWalt TSTAK) to protect valuable specialist equipment during transport and organised storage

Safety Information

Personal Protective Equipment: Always wear appropriate PPE when operating specialist power tools. Safety glasses or face shields are essential, particularly when grinding or cutting concrete. Hearing protection is required for extended use of high-noise equipment. Dust masks or respirators rated for the specific material being worked—especially concrete dust containing silica—are mandatory under COSHH regulations.

Electrical Safety: Ensure cordless equipment is charged using the manufacturer's specified chargers only. For 240v mains-powered tools, verify they're suitable for UK supply and fitted with properly earthed 13A plugs. Use RCD protection (30mA trip) when working on site or in damp conditions, particularly when using mains-powered equipment outdoors or in unfinished buildings.

Load Capacity and Secure Handling: Never exceed the stated weight capacity of suction lifters and always verify a secure grip before lifting any load. Regularly inspect suction pads for damage or contamination that could compromise the vacuum seal. When using pipe fitting press tools, ensure correct jaw selection and proper alignment to prevent joint failure that could result in water damage.

Dust and Debris Control: When using concrete planers, grinders, or cutting tools, implement dust extraction wherever possible to minimise exposure to harmful particulates. HSE guidelines require control of silica dust exposure through extraction, water suppression, or other approved methods to protect respiratory health.

Training and Competence: Many specialist tools require proper training for safe and effective operation. Ensure operators understand the specific hazards and correct operating procedures before use, particularly for pipe fitting systems where incorrect installation could result in system failure or property damage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use batteries from my existing cordless tools with these specialist power tools?
Yes, provided they're from the same battery platform. For example, Makita 18V LXT batteries work across the entire Makita 18V range, whilst DeWalt 18V XR batteries are compatible with all DeWalt XR tools available at Tooled-Up. This cross-compatibility is one of the major advantages of choosing tools within the same manufacturer's ecosystem, reducing costs and the number of chargers required on site.

Are cordless pipe fitting press tools as powerful as 240v mains-powered alternatives?
Modern 18V cordless press tools from professional brands like Bosch and Makita deliver pressing forces comparable to mains-powered equipment, typically handling pipe sizes up to 108mm depending on the model. Battery technology has advanced significantly, with high-capacity packs providing sufficient runtime for a full day's installation work. For the highest-demand applications or continuous use, consider tools compatible with battery belt systems for extended runtime.

What's the difference between a concrete planer and a standard angle grinder for removing concrete?
Concrete planers are purpose-designed with larger grinding surfaces, superior dust control systems, and depth adjustment mechanisms for controlled, even material removal. Whilst an angle grinder can remove concrete, a dedicated planer offers better results, faster work rates, improved operator comfort, and significantly better dust extraction—essential for meeting HSE silica dust exposure limits on professional sites.

Do I need any special certification to use pipe fitting press tools?
Whilst no legal certification is required to operate press tools, manufacturers and system suppliers typically offer training courses that are highly recommended. Proper training ensures correct jaw selection, positioning, and quality checking of pressed joints. Many contractors require proof of training, and some insurance policies may specify competency requirements for plumbing installation work.

How do I maintain suction lifters to ensure they remain safe to use?
Regularly inspect suction pads for cracks, tears, contamination, or deterioration that could compromise the vacuum seal. Clean pads before each use and test the vacuum seal on a suitable surface before lifting loads. Replace pads according to the manufacturer's schedule or sooner if damage is evident. Always verify the vacuum gauge shows adequate suction before lifting, and never rely solely on visual inspection—a proper seal test is essential for safe operation.