184 Agricultural Mechanics and Technology Systems
Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc.
In addition to requiring dry, clean air,
pneumatic tools need to be lubricated to
reduce wear. Lubricants reduce friction and
cool the tool while it is in use. Lubricants
can be introduced into the air supply
through automatic oilers, or the tools may
be lubricated manually.
Gasoline- and
Diesel-Powered Tools
Sometimes electricity is not readily
available at a job site. In these situations,
professionals complete their work using
tools and equipment powered by gasoline
or diesel engines.
Internal combustion engines convert
the energy from a burning fuel source to
usable motion. Fuels can be petroleum-
or ethanol-based or blends of the two.
Gasoline, diesel, and liquid petroleum gas
(LPG) are the most common fuels.
Within this category, a distinction
can be made between the terms tool and
equipment. Equipment is larger and is not
designed to be moved easily by one person.
Tools are smaller and are meant to be
operated by one person, or at most, by one person and
a helper.
Gasoline- and diesel-powered tools are usually
heavier and designed for tougher work than their
electric counterparts. They are meant for big jobs
where the size and power they offer speeds up job
completion. Some common examples of handheld,
engine-powered tools are chainsaws, concrete cutters,
posthole diggers, and leaf blowers. See Figure 8-6.
Power Tool Safety Rules
Safe operation of power tools means following
appropriate rules and procedures. Get yourself into the
habit of recognizing, addressing, and following safety
protocol whenever you use power tools. Follow these
general power tool safety rules at all times:
• Always read and follow the safety and maintenance
procedures provided by the power tool manufacturer
for a particular tool.
Air inlet
Pressure regulator
and gauge
Air outlet
Water separator
Water drain
Air filter
STRINGER Image/Shutterstock.com
Figure 8-5. A combination unit housing a pressure regulator,
water separator, and pressure gauge. Note the separate air filter.
For efficient operation, pneumatic power tools require that the
air supply be kept clean, free from moisture, and regulated to a
stable pressure.
Kalabi Yau/Shutterstock.com
Figure 8-6. Internal combustion engines are used
to power heavy equipment and tools, like this
posthole digger, in remote areas.