Landscape & Urban Design Issue 40 2019 | Page 32

GROUNDSKEEPING & EQUIPMENT ENDLESS POSSIBILITES WITH CORDLESS TECHNOLOGY Since the introduction of battery powered tools, landscapers are now faced with having to choose between new cordless and traditional petrol powered machines when stocking their fleet. Petrol (and diesel) powered equipment has been the go to for professionals for many years, however cordless technology has recently evolved at a rapid pace and is now at a point where it can deliver similar performance to traditional petrol products. As a result, battery powered tools are becoming more and more sought after for working environments. So why are more landscapers choosing to move to this new alternative? Improved usability For professional users, perhaps one of the greatest benefits of cordless technology is the reduced vibration. Extensive use of handheld power tools can cause Hand-Arm-Vibration (HAV) syndrome (also know as ‘Vibration White Finger’) and the reduction in vibration of cordless tools can help reduce the risk of this occurring. With this in mind, an increasing number of landscapers are moving towards battery powered machinery due to its lightweight nature and reduced vibration during operation, making tools more comfortable to use. In addition to being comfortable to use and having less vibrations, battery technology also offers 32 www.landud.co.uk noise reduction benefits. For many, landscaping and the loud noise of equipment in operation go hand in hand. However, when a hospital or a school requires mowing or other grounds maintenance work to be completed outside of normal working hours to minimise disruption, this can become increasingly difficult for contractors to manage. This is where cordless technology separates itself from petrol and diesel alternatives. Some manufacturers have developed cordless technology so quiet in operation that no ear defender protection is required, keeping any disruption to an absolute minimum and allowing ground maintenance work to be carried out in any location at more convenient times. Follow us @ludmagazine