------------ General Questions ------------
Are your Air Power Hammers made in America?
We manufacture 98% of the components for our Power Hammers right here in the U.S.A. (A couple of small parts used in our air regulators are not available in the U.S. and consequently are imported.) 100% of the assembly on our Power Hammers is done in our own shop in Northern California by people who use these machines every day.
What size air compressor do I need to run the machine?
On average the air consumption is around 3-5 CFM at 90 PSI. (If your air compressor is rated at or higher than this you will be fine.) Kent and several customers have been known to take our power hammers out to a grassy landing strip to fix an airplane part with nothing more than a small portable Craftsman air compressor to power it.
What type of learning curve is there to using this machine?
The most important thing you need to know when learning how to use the Air Power Hammer is a basic understanding of metalworking. If you have that, you will pick up the techniques very quickly. Keep in mind that the craftsman is still the one making the parts and the machine is the aid to making these parts faster, more efficiently, and better than before. Most people tell us that it takes one to three months (on average) of trial and error before full confidence sets in and they feel as though there is nothing they cannot do with the machine.
What holds the dies in the air motor?
The upper dies free-float in the air motor and rest against the top of the panel you have in the machine. If you pull the panel out from in between the dies, the upper die will drop down slightly and rest against the lower die. The clearance between the upper and lower die is infinitely adjustable, depending on the material you are working with. Ideally, you want a minimal amount of clearance between the upper and lower dies, giving you just enough space to freely move the panel around between them. Having the dies remain in contact with the panel allows for safer working conditions and smoother work. If the material you’re working with slips out of the dies while you are hammering, just slide it back in — it is that easy. For a better understanding of this, view any one of the videos of our dies under the “Video Demos” tab above.
How many Blows-Per-Minute (BPM) will your Air Power Hammers produce?
The rate of fire for our air motors is completely adjustable from both the air regulator and the foot pedal. Each air motor has a different rate of fire when it is at max pressure of 90 PSI. The smaller air motors will hit on average about 1500 BPM while the larger air motors will average around 800 BPM. For a better description of how this works, please read the section about control under “The Facts” tab above.
Can I call TM Technologies for help or advice on making a part if I run into difficulties with using this machine?
We are here to help. Not only do we manufacture and sell these power hammers, but we use them in our own shop every day. If you run into an area of trouble, many times it is something obvious and a short phone call or email can save you hours of wasted time.
Do I need an English Wheel, an Air Power Hammer – or both?
We have designed our Air Hammers with a complete range of dies to take you from start to finish, but this does not make the English Wheel and other forming machines completely obsolete. Sometimes, depending on the shape or finish you are trying to achieve, getting it close with the power hammer and then finishing the part on the wheel can give you the same beautiful results as a completely wheeled part in a fraction of the time. Although the power hammer is capable of planishing parts to a polish (as you will see in the Air Hammer Operations DVD) sometimes “finishing” on the wheel can be faster. At TM Technologies we believe in a concept we call “practical application,” which means using the right tool for the job at the right time. That said, Kent says he has reduced the amount of work he does on the Wheel by 80% because of the capabilities of the Air Hammer. Customers have told us the same.
Do you sell a floor-model air hammer?
All of our Power Hammers are Benchtop models for practical reasons. First and foremost, this gives the end user more flexibility to set up the machine almost anywhere, in any way, inside their shop. The second reason is that a benchtop machine can also be set up as a mobile unit and travel with you to the job site. The third reason is to keep shipping costs down.
What height should I set the machine to, and what sort of base should I put the machine on?
You want to set the machine up at a height that is comfortable for you to work at. It may take a few days of using the machine to find out which height works best for you, so set up something temporary at first. Kent recommends that you set up your machine so that your metal is at about solar plexus height. Other people prefer it higher or lower. After you find the height that works best for you, you can use either a steel or wood base. Either way you are going to want to build a wide and stable base that will allow you to push against the machine as you are working on it.
We do offer a welded stand that can be used with our machines. You can purchase the parts and weld the stand together yourself (saving money on both labor and shipping), or you can order the stand ready to set-up out of the box. Please see “Air Hammer Accessories & Upgrades” for our stand and stand plans.
Is there any way to reduce noise from the machine, or increase stability?
Yes! First, rubber pads under the frame will help reduce vibration and noise. Secondly, all of our machines are designed with a hole in the top of the frame that allows you to fill the frame with sand. The sand acts as both a stabilizing weight and a sound deadener. Keep in mind that once you add sand, the machine is very heavy and no longer easily portable, so you may want to consider a welded steel cart with wheels if you want to be able to move your machine to different spots in your shop.
Can I build my own frame and adapt your hardware to it?
Yes, we sell plans/blueprints for building your own 1000 model (which has a “fixed,” not interchangeable lower straight-post assembly.) We also sell all of the components you might need including the Air System, upper and lower assembly parts, motors, and dies. Please see the “Build Your Own” section.
Is it hard to hold onto the panel when shaping?
Not at all. Kent’s grandsons started learning to shape metal in the hammers at ages 8 and 10. So even a child can hold the metal in the machine. Because the dies stay so close to the panel and the dies hit several times a second, the panel never gets out of hand and the shaping operation is very smooth.
When you start working thicker materials, the vibration in your hand can increase but this is about the same feeling as using a D/A sander at full speed. If you use the machine for frequently for heavy shaping, or prefer to reduce the vibration, our new Anti-Vibration Kevlar Gloves are recommended when using this machine, not only to help you hold onto larger panels and parts, but also to help prevent getting cut by the sharp edges of the metal you are working with. They also help reduce hand fatigue that can occur when you are working on a big or lengthy project.
What is the largest panel I can work on this machine?
Our machines have a 24” throat from the center of the die to the rear vertical of the frame. This allows you to work a panel with a maximum width of 48”.
Can I get custom dies made for my Power Hammer specific to my application?
Yes, we do make custom dies for various applications. We currently offer over two dozen dies which will handle almost every job imaginable. If you are unsure of how to make a particular shape, chances are it is possible with one of the dies we have, but you maybe unaware of how to use the die in that way. Give us a call and let us know how we can help you. If we do not have a die that works for you, making one-off dies can be expensive, but it is not out of the question. Chances are, however, if you need a specific die, others might also and we should look into manufacturing it, which would reduce the cost. We are always looking to improve.
If I make my own dies for a specific application will you harden them for me?
Yes, this can be done but we cannot be responsible for the die if it breaks. Please contact us for more information on this.
Can I grind on your dies to make a specific shape?
You can slightly reshape our dies, but keep in mind most of them are made of hardened steel. This makes them very hard to grind and almost impossible to machine. If you do grind on them, make sure that you do not get the die so hot that you ruin the heat treat.
I have heard the Air Motors require oil. What kind and how often do I do that?
Our air motors need lubrication to run properly. When you purchase our machine, a small bottle of Air Tool Oil will be included with your Air System. We prefer Taylor Air Tool Oil, or Wintergrade brand air tool oil. We recommend that you oil your motors once for every hour the motor runs. You will be able to hear when your motor is running out of oil (but waiting for that to happen is not advised as an oiling method!) We sell the Taylor oil here on our web site in 4 oz. bottles, quarts, and gallons.
Why do your newer machines have a filter-regulator-lubricator on them?
Our machines and air systems now come standard with an FRL (filter-regulator-lubricator). This eliminates the need to constantly monitor your motor for oil. Fill your lubricator about ¾ full (the entire 4 oz. bottle we supply) and adjust the FRL so that it puts out just a tiny amount of oil on your upper die. (Not so much that the oil starts to spray!) The motor needs just a small amount of oil to stay properly lubricated. One 4 oz. bottle should last for a month if you are running the air hammer all the time, many months if you are only running it occasionally.
The filter in the FRL helps to keep crud, dust, and other nastiness that somehow manage to make their way into your air line (like small particles of sand), from damaging your motor and voiding your motor’s warranty. If you own one of our older Air Hammer models that does not have an FRL, we highly recommend purchasing one. It will keep your motors going years longer without problems.
Do you offer workshops or trainings on how to use the Power Hammer?
Our Power Hammers are used in almost every workshop we host. We also offer at least one or two workshops exclusively on Power Hammers or Forming Machines each year. If you want more of a “one-on-one” workshop (or training for a small group of students either at our facility or yours) please contact us at530-292-3506 or contact us regarding workshops. You can find more info under the Workshop links to the left under “Education/Workshops.”
------------------ Ordering & Payment Options ------------------
Can I come to your shop and use it for myself before I buy?
Absolutely! Guests are always welcome at our shop, but please call ahead and make an appointment to make sure someone is here who can go over the power hammer with you.
How long does it take to receive a machine once I place my order?
Our 1000 and 2000 Air Hammer models ship within 2 weeks after payment is received. However if you need the machine by a certain date please be sure to contact us regarding orders to ensure everything is in stock and that we can ship immediately. Our 2500, 3000, and 3500 models generally ship in 2-4 weeks.
Rush orders
We understand that sometimes time is of the essence and you may need your new machine quickly. If that is the case please call us at 530-292-3506 or contact us regarding orders to check availability of the model that you are interested in. Depending on availability we may be able to expedite your Air Hammer order for an additional $150. and get it out within 24-48 hours. Please remember that shipping can take anywhere from 1-7 business days unless you also choose an expedited shipping method.
What are my payment options? Do you offer financing or Net 30?
All of our air hammers require a 50% down deposit when the order is placed, with the remainder due when the machine is ready to ship. You may also choose to pay for your machine and shipping in full when you place your order. This guarantees your machine will ship the day it is ready, rather than waiting for a final payment to clear. Because we are a small company, unfortunately we are unable to offer financing or Net 30 terms on any of our machines at this time.
We accept all major credit cards including, Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Discover. We will also accept PayPal, money orders, cashier’s checks and personal or business checks. If you choose to pay by check, please allow 10 business days for the funds to clear before we can process and ship your order.
We also accept bank wires. Domestic wires have a $15. fee, international wires are $45. (Please note these are the fees we are charged by the banks for us to receive a wire.) Please be aware that wires can sometimes take up to 2-3 weeks to clear depending on the country of origin. All payments must be made in US Dollars. There will be a $25. fee for any returned checks.
Sales Tax
All purchases that use a California shipping address will be required to pay the standard California state sales tax.
------------------ Shipping ------------------
How do you ship your power hammers?
Everything that we ship is fully insured so you do not need to worry about loss or damage during transit. Shipping methods depend on the model you are purchasing.
Tube Frames (models 1000, 2000, 2500)
We know that shipping a heavy machine can be expensive. Generally we are able to ship our Tube Frame Power Hammers via UPS Ground which is the most cost-effective option. There is an additional oversize fee of $60. to ship the frame, but this allows us to avoid freight which is more expensive (in most cases). The frame is padded and tightly wrapped on a plywood skid. The rest of the components are shipped in several small packages, all of which are less than 35 lbs. International orders however, are shipped on a pallet via UPS Freight. If you would prefer any other shipping method please let us know and we will do our best to accommodate your request.
C-Frames (models 3000, 3500)
Because of the size and dimensional weight of the C-Frames they must to be shipped in a large wooden crate and the only option is to ship them as freight. There is also an additional $175. crating fee for these machines. If you are ordering a C-Frame, please read the information at the bottom of this section “Important information for Freight Shipments.” Please call 530-292-3506 or contact us regarding shipping for more information or to request a freight shipping quote for this machine.
I live a long way from where you are located; is it expensive to ship a machine?
Because we pack our machines to ship as economically as possible, most Tube Frame Air Hammer order scan be shipped across the country for $200. - $250. Our C-Frame (3000 model) machines are shipped in large wood crates as freight and consequently are much more expensive to ship (usually between $500. -$900. depending on which machine package you order).
The cost to ship a machine depends on three factors: 1) The speed at which you want it delivered; 2) the distance the item must be shipped; and 3) the weight and dollar value of the items. Obviously the faster you need it, the more the shipping carriers charge. Please contact us regarding shipping
and we will be happy to provide you with a shipping quote.
How long does shipping take?
Shipping transit time within the United States via UPS Ground is between 1-7 days depending on your location. Any transit times that are given for Ground shipments or non-expedited methods are not guaranteed to be delivered by that date and are a best estimate.
What if I need expedited shipping?
If you need an Air Hammer or machine to be delivered by a certain date please contact us regarding shipping
for expedited shipping methods and costs. Although it is rare, shipping carriers are not responsible if a shipment encounters unexpected events which could delay the delivery (snow storms, floods, highway or airport closings), so please be sure to place your order well enough in advance to guarantee that you will get your shipment in time should these circumstances occur.
Can I arrange my own shipping or ship on my own account?
Yes, you are welcome to ship on your own UPS account, or have another common carrier pick up your machine. Please note that we are in a rural area and not all carriers pick up at our location. We will still charge a small handling fee (generally around $25.) for packing up your machine and parts and handling paperwork. If you arrange your own shipping you will need to make sure insure the machine for its full value. International customers sometimes have better access to shipping brokers if they commonly ship equipment internationally. If you have a broker you work with, please let us know. We’ll be more than happy to contact them.
Can your Air Hammers be shipped internationally?
Yes, we do ship our machines to most countries, however there are some countries that common carriers will not deliver to. International shipping can be expensive, but we will work with you to find the most economical method we can. Please be aware that your country will charge duties on your incoming shipment. We do not have any control over duties and/or taxes that may be charged by your country, or the amount of time your order may be held in customs. Please contact us regarding shipping
for an international shipping information or a shipping quote.
*IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR FREIGHT SHIPMENTS
If you are purchasing a C-Frame or any other oversized machinery that needs to be delivered via Freight please read the following important information.
Accessibility
Please be sure that your location is easily accessible by a large freight truck, if it is not please let us know prior to quoting your shipping charges. If you cannot receive a freight truck, UPS offers the option for you to pick up your shipment at one of their terminals. Please speak to us about this option when getting your shipping quote.
Unloading Freight
If you do not have a forklift or a loading dock at your location you will be charged (included in your freight cost) an additional fee for lift-gate service (about $100.). If you do not have a forklift or loading dock and refuse this service, UPS will not be required to assist you in unloading your shipment. Please remember that a crate will most likely weight between 450-900 lbs. and is 48″ x 48″ x 40″ or larger.
------------------ Warranty & Returns ------------------
What kind of warranty do you offer on your machines?
Our machine frames and frame components are guaranteed for 5 years from their date of purchase. We offer a 3 year warranty on our air motors. We HIGHLY recommend you use a filter-regulator-lubricator on your Air Power Hammer to filter out dirt and debris that can damage your motor. Your warranty on your motor may be voided if your motor is damaged by dirty air hose lines that have caused your motor to clog and seize. If you motor stops functioning, you may ship it to us for repair. Most of the time we are able to fix the problem, but we do charge for repair services.
Under normal use our dies will last for many years. However some customers are quite hard on their dies, forcing us to limit our warranty on these items to one year.
What is your order cancellation and return policy?
Any item you purchase from our company may be returned if you are unhappy with the product. We have a satisfaction guarantee on every item we sell, which means that any Air Hammer or machine that you purchase from us is guaranteed to work as described or we will replace it free of charge. We are happy to say that we have never had a customer return an air hammer due to dissatisfaction with the machine or its performance.
We do have a 15% restocking fee on all of our large equipment (including air hammers) unless the return is the result of a manufacturing defect. Also the customer is responsible for paying all return shipping charges if the machine is returned for a non-warranty reason. Any returned machine must be in “new” and unused condition and will be subject to inspection and testing upon arrival. Air Hammers or other heavy machines refunds can take up to 30 days before the funds are returned to the purchaser.
You may cancel your order any time prior to shipping. If the order is cancelled after the order has shipped the customer will be required to pay the full shipping cost for the shipping both directions. Please note: It can take up to 30 days for the funds to be returned to the purchaser when machine orders are cancelled unexpectedly.
|