Abstract: Power tools such as cutting saws with rotary powered blades are described. Also described are various accessories for tools used with cylindrical workpieces such as pipes are described. The accessories include a clamp and saw joint assembly, various quick connection assemblies between a saw and a clamping system, a plunge guide assembly, a latch plate assembly, an interlock switch, a blade guard system, and a chip management system or chip deflector. Also described are related methods of use.

Abstract: A hand-held conduit bending tool includes an elongated handle and a bender head disposed on the handle. The bender head comprising a body portion having at least one curved channel therein. In an embodiment, the channel is elliptical in cross-section. A handle mount is at a rear end of the body portion and rearward of the hook portion and a foot pedal is formed. In some embodiments, two channels are provided to accommodate two differently sized conduits. Markings are provided to enable use of the tool in a head-down position and in a head-up position.

Abstract: Various drop head coupling assemblies are described. The coupling assemblies enable a drop head tool typically used in drain cleaning operations to be releasably engaged with a drain cleaning cable. The coupling assemblies enable the drop head tool to undergo a wide range of motion relative to the drain cleaning cable, particularly during rotation of the cable and drop head.

Abstract: A multi-purpose hand tool system is described. The tool system includes a handle and one or more inserts that are releasably engaged with the handle. The tool system is useful for a variety of applications including use with basin and faucet hardware.

Abstract: A multi-purpose hand tool system is described. The tool system includes a handle and one or more inserts that are releasably engaged with the handle. The tool system is useful for a variety of applications including use with basin and faucet hardware.

Abstract: Power tools such as cutting saws with rotary powered blades are described. Also described are various accessories for tools used with cylindrical workpieces such as pipes are described. The accessories include a clamp and saw joint assembly, various quick connection assemblies between a saw and a clamping system, a plunge guide assembly, a latch plate assembly, an interlock switch, a blade guard system, and a chip management system or chip deflector. Also described are related methods of use.

Abstract: Various drop head coupling assemblies are described. The coupling assemblies enable a drop head tool typically used in drain cleaning operations to be releasably engaged with a drain cleaning cable. The coupling assemblies enable the drop head tool to undergo a wide range of motion relative to the drain cleaning cable, particularly during rotation of the cable and drop head.

Abstract: A multi-purpose hand tool system is described. The tool system includes a handle and one or more inserts that are releasably engaged with the handle. The tool system is useful for a variety of applications including use with basin and faucet hardware.

Abstract: A die head retaining mechanism for installing or removing a die head in a power drive for thread cutting operations is described. The mechanism comprises a cam and follower arrangement with a face gear having at least one locking jaw disposed in a slot provided on the face of the face gear oriented away from the housing. The mechanism also comprises a drive ring having a collection of cam profiles to control the movement of the locking jaws. The mechanism also comprises at least one compression spring disposed in corresponding groove(s) on the face gear. The compression spring is typically preloaded to keep the locking jaws in a locked position. The mechanism also comprises a bearing provided between the housing and the face gear. The bearing is locked in place by a retaining ring. A locking plate, spring washers, and screws are used to secure the assembly of the die head retaining mechanism on the power drive.

Abstract: A die head retaining mechanism for installing or removing a die head in a power drive for thread cutting operations is described. The mechanism comprises a cam and follower arrangement with a face gear having at least one locking jaw disposed in a slot provided on the face of the face gear oriented away from the housing. The mechanism also comprises a drive ring having a collection of cam profiles to control the movement of the locking jaws. The mechanism also comprises at least one compression spring disposed in corresponding groove(s) on the face gear. The compression spring is typically preloaded to keep the locking jaws in a locked position. The mechanism also comprises a bearing provided between the housing and the face gear. The bearing is locked in place by a retaining ring. A locking plate, spring washers, and screws are used to secure the assembly of the die head retaining mechanism on the power drive.

Abstract: A vise apparatus with a bending fixture is disclosed in which the bending fixture includes a collection of projections on an operative and substantially vertical front face of a holding arrangement of the vise apparatus. The bending fixture supports and enables gravity assisted bending of a workpiece. The vise apparatus promotes bending workpieces with reduced effort and minimizes manufacturing costs.

Abstract: A vise apparatus with a bending fixture is disclosed in which the bending fixture includes a collection of projections on an operative and substantially vertical front face of a holding arrangement of the vise apparatus. The bending fixture supports and enables gravity assisted bending of a workpiece. The vise apparatus promotes bending workpieces with reduced effort and minimizes manufacturing costs.