Electrical contractors and electricians can use a heat gun, like the Makita HG551VK, as a versatile tool for various tasks, repairs, and maintenance. Here are a couple of uses:
- Shrinking heat-shrink tubing
Heat guns are commonly used to shrink heat-shrink tubing, which provides insulation and protection for electrical connections. By applying heat evenly to the tubing, it can be shrunk securely around wires, splices, and connectors, creating a tight seal and preventing moisture ingress and electrical shorts. - Softening & removing adhesive
Heat guns can soften adhesive materials such as electrical tape or adhesive-backed cable ties, making it easier to remove them without damaging the underlying surfaces or leaving residue. Electricians can use heat guns to soften old adhesive before peeling it off wires, cables or equipment during rewiring or maintenance. - Thawing frozen pipes & locks
Not a common issue in South Africa, electricians may still encounter frozen pipes or locks during out-door installations or maintenance work. A heat gun can be used to apply heat selectively to frozen pipes or locks, thawing them safely and quickly without the risk of damage from open flames or excessive force. - Bending & shaping plastic conduit
When working with plastic conduit in electrical installations, electricians may need to bend or shape it to fit specific angles or configurations. A heat gun can soften plastic conduit, making it more pliable and allowing it to be bent or shaped without kinking or cracking. This is especially useful for runs around obstacles or tight spaces. - Removing paint & varnish
Heat guns can be used to soften and loosen paint or varnish on electrical enclosures, conduit, or fixtures before removal or refinishing. By applying heat to the painted surface, an electrician can soften the paint, making it easier to scrape or peel away, saving time and effort compared to manual scraping or chemical stripping. - Drying moisture & insulation
In wet or humid environments, moisture can accumulate on electrical components, insulation, or wiring, posing a risk of electrical hazards. A heat gun can be used to dry moisture from electrical components, insulation, or wiring safely and effectively, restoring their integrity and reducing the risk of electrical faults or damage. - Loosening corroded fasteners
Heat guns can be used to apply heat to corroded or seized fasteners, such as bolts or screws, to help loosen them for removal. By heating the metal fastener, the expansion and contraction caused by thermal cycling can break the bond between the fastener and the threaded hole, making it easier to remove without damaging the surrounding material.
Enquiries: www.makita.co.za
