If you think you are have tool Déjà Vu you are not alone. In a post almost 3 years ago, on Coptool.com (the long long ago) we announced Ridgid had come out with an Infrared Thermometer and Gas Sniffer. After some time those products went away but now they are back new and improved (apparently they dropped the "Gas Sniffer" name but sorry guys we’ll never call it anything else). In the meantime however several new players have come to market with their own products and while the stats look pretty respectable on both new items they are probably not compelling enough to replace existing tools. They will both be available shortly on the Ridgid Handheld Inspection page of Ohio Power Tool. Below is more information from the official Ridgid Press Release.
The RIDGID micro CD-100 combustible gas detector provides simple and fast readings to quickly identify the presence of combustible gases. The detector is designed to detect methane, propane, butane, ethanol, ammonia, hydrogen and many other combustible gases.
The rugged ergonomic design makes the device capable of withstanding jobsite rigor. The adjustable sensitivity settings allow for quick, precise leak locating even in low-levels and the Tri-Mode Detection™ gives the operator the flexibility to be alerted with a visual, audible or vibration alert, which can be adjusted for each environment. The detector can be use for ensuring proper gas line installations, checking for maintenance and repair needs, or for quickly pinpointing combustible gas leaks.
The RIDGID micro IR-100 non-contact infrared thermometer provides simple, quick and accurate surface temperature readings at the push of a button. By squeezing the trigger and pointing the ultra-sharp dual class II lasers to spotlight the surface being measured, the micro IR-100 thermometer provides an immediate temperature measurement on a clear, easy-to-read backlit LCD display. The rugged ergonomic pistol-style grip allows the user to keep a solid grip on the device in the harshest industrial environments.
The 20-to-1 distance-to-spot ratio allows the user to take more accurate measurements from farther distances. Audible and visual high and low alarm settings alert the user quickly to temperatures outside of the set ranges. The micro IR-100 thermometer has a large temperature measuring range of -58 degrees to 1472 degrees Fahrenheit. The device is also equipped with a tripod mount for repeatable, precise temperature measurements. Applications include diagnosis of heating and ventilation problems, preventative monitoring of electrical motors and systems, trouble shooting steam traps, and diagnosing fuses and circuit breakers for overheating. “At RIDGID, we are constantly looking to deliver new and innovative products to our customers, the professional tradesman. Our new rugged, hand-held diagnostic devices are the first in a series of products that RIDGID is launching to help the professional tradesman save time and money on any jobsite,” said Chris Lane, product manager, RIDGID.
