Ingersoll-Rand launches premium cordless tool series

Oct. 5, 2006

Ingersoll-Rand Co., through its Industrial Technologies division, has unveiled a new series of cordless tools engineered specifically for professionals who demand peak power and durability.

Featuring patented IQv technology, the IQv Series is comprised of a broad range of cordless Impactool brand tools in 1/4-inch (W040), 3/8-inch (W150) and 1/2-inch (W360) sizes.

The IQv Series also includes two drill/drivers -- the 19.2-volt D650 and 14.4-volt D550.

"IQv technology was designed to deliver improved performance and longevity of cordless tools and batteries," says Christian Corrigan, global marketing manager for cordless tools. "For the customer, this means cordless tools that are lighter and more powerful, and batteries that require significantly fewer replacements over the life of the tool."

The IQv Series cordless tools combine precision engineering with efficient battery technology to provide the best power per volt available, according to Ingersoll-Rand. This means that more power is generated from smaller, lighter and lower voltage batteries.

In addition to power, the new cordless tools match shop/plant requirements with industrial-grade engineering for tough, heavy-duty jobs. All IQv Series cordless tools are engineered with composite housings to deliver maximum structural strength with minimum weight.

The composite housings protect against damaging chemicals and fluids common in shop or plant environments and are reinforced with a patented metal design that provides extra strength for excellent drop resistance.

"We spent a lot of time trying to understand both our customers and competitors in order to build the best cordless tools available," says Corrigan. "In developing the IQv Series tools, we looked at products and programs that would change the way cordless tools are perceived and provide real value for our customers."

Ingersoll Rand IQv Series cordless tools utilize a new battery interface to lock the battery securely in place, in contrast to competitive designs. The new line also employs the IQv Grip, a patent-pending twist-to-lock design that grips the battery into the tool, providing superior holding strength.

To support the new line of tools, Ingersoll-Rand partnered with global leaders in electronics and battery technologies to produce the IQv cordless power system. IQv technology makes it possible to have one charger that charges all voltages and chemistries, including nickel-cadmium and lithium-ion batteries ranging from 7.2 volts to 19.2 volts.

The IQv charger automatically detects battery voltage and chemistry and chooses the correct charge algorithm. By "reading" the battery, the charger can optimize its charge to improve performance and longevity. The charger's "renew" feature restores the battery to like-new condition and calibrates onboard battery electronics.

For nickel-cadmium batteries, the renew feature eliminates memory effect, extending the usable battery life up to five times and significantly decreasing the number of replacement batteries over the life of the tool.

"IQv technology gives cordless tool systems intelligence not found in typical systems,” said Corrigan. "The ability for batteries and chargers to communicate opens the door for dramatically improved performance, longevity and compatibility."

Ingersoll-Rand backs IQV Series cordless tools with its IQv with registration. This includes a one-year, hassle-free tool and charger replacement; a two-year or 1,000 charges limited battery warranty; and a three-year limited warranty on tool and charger.

"We realize that our customers are professionals who need their tools to do their jobs," says Corrigan. "The IQv Warranty is a way for us to share our confidence in the quality of our products and make sure we keep our customers satisfied."

Unlike standard cordless combo kits, Ingersoll-Rand offers the IQv Series cordless tools individually. Users may choose from an extensive line of cordless tools, batteries and accessories, buying only what is needed, which can dramatically reduce the cost of ownership.

For more details on the Ingersoll Rand family of cordless tools or the IQV cordless power system, visit irtools.com/cordless.