Setting the Speed Dial on an Albion 14.4V Cordless Drive.

When using power tools, people often think that they need more power to accomplish whatever job they are doing. Sometimes this may be true, but usually what they really need is more control. When using a cordless caulking gun, if the speed is set too high the gun could pulsate making it difficult to control.

Operating the gun at the optimal max speed setting also has the added benefit of extending the life of your tool and your battery. Figure 1-2 shows how nozzle diameter and max speed are directly related. Notice in the chart on the left that as the diameter increases, the max speed will also increase. The chart also shows an example using urethane. Picking a nozzle diameter of A, the optimal setting for that application is 2. Anything higher and your tool is in what we would call the “red zone”, where battery power is wasted and undue stress is put on the tool.

Before starting a job, ask yourself these 2 simple questions that will help determine your optimal max speed setting:
1-How viscous is the material? Urethanes are usually thick (more viscous); latex tends to be relatively less viscous. The more viscous your material is, the slower your speed may need to be.

2-How large is the joint? ¼”, ½”, 1”….. The size of the joint dictates the size of the nozzle. Smaller beads/ nozzles require less speed. Larger beads can be done faster and may require a higher speed setting. Generally, the larger the diameter of the hole in your nozzle, the faster you can dispense your material.

Once you determine the joint size and material type, start the max speed dial at setting number 3 and work your way up or down depending on how your material is flowing. Albion sets the max speed dial at 3 when the guns are assembled. We recommend starting with this setting because most materials and applications will not need more speed.

You do not want the gun to pulsate. Always remember that less can sometimes be more. Slower speed means more control, and it can also mean an extended life for your tool and battery.

By: Pat Quinn
pat@albioneng.com