A new series of lightweight pneumatic tools includes bench mount and hand-held models for numerous assembly tasks. The tools from Fabco-Air Inc. in Gainsville, Fla., (fabco-air.com) are said to be easily moved for rapid adjustments on assembly lines. Set-up time is minimized because their cam-operated jaws can be changed-over from job to job in less than a minute.

Tools feature an air cylinder that delivers over 4,000 lbs of closing force to the jaws. A foot-operated control includes a pressure-sensing valve that that can be adjusted for various jaw-closing forces. The valve also senses working air-pressure to provide automated quality control. For example, when air-pressure is too low, the tool stalls and when air-pressure is restored, the tool completes its stroke. Thus, the jaws don't release a component mid-stroke, which helps ensure a good assembly. Pneumatic tools include those for crimping electrical terminals, piercing and flaring subassembly components, and splicing wire rope and cable assemblies.