As powerful as corded tools – the GBH 18V-26 Professional and GBH 18V-26 F Professional, two particularly high-performance tools, are the latest additions to the Bosch range of rotary hammers with EC motors. Both generate an impact energy of 2.6 joules – 50 percent more than the current strongest 18 volt rotary hammer. This makes them comparable with corded tools such as the GBH 2-26 Professional. This is where the EC motor steps in. It is highly efficient and completely maintenance-free. The user can choose between the model with fixed chuck and the model with changeable chuck (F), which is also supplied with a keyless chuck for round shank drill bits.
To allow installers to stay in complete control even when carrying out work on hard materials – when drilling into reinforced concrete, for example – Bosch has equipped the GBH 18V-26 Professional and the GBH 18V-26 F Professional with KickBack Control. If the rotary hammer turns suddenly or unpredictably on its drill axis, as can occur if the drill becomes jammed in reinforced concrete, the integrated sensor shuts off the motor in a fraction of a second. This prevents unexpected kickback of the tool and, therefore, can reduce the risk of injury. The integrated Electronic Precision Control (EPC) feature supports tradespeople when drilling into delicate materials such as tiles. If the EPC function is activated, the maximum power of the rotary hammer is limited to 70 percent with slower run-up. It enables tradespeople to work in impact mode from the very start of their task by omitting one work step. The bit is prevented from slipping off when the user starts to drill, and precise results can be achieved quickly and easily.
When developing the new generation of 18 volt rotary hammers, Bosch also redesigned the shape of the tools and optimized them for ergonomic work. The handle is now in line with the drill axis on both tools. This L shape reduces the effort and fatigue involved in working with the tool. In addition, both rotary hammers feature efficient vibration damping. A damping element uncouples the main handle from the hammer drive, reducing vibrations actively.
The first Bosch hammer with active integrated dust extractor
To enable tradespeople to work in building stock in a dust-free environment – for example when retrofitting light fittings – Bosch is offering the new 18 volt rotary hammers with active integrated dust extractor for the first time: The GDE 18V-16 Professional can simply be attached to the rotary hammer when required. It has its own motor which is also supplied with power by the rotary hammer battery. To allow drilling to be carried out easily and cleanly using dust extraction, the dust extractor has an automatic power on/off function. It automatically starts at the same time as the rotary hammer. However, to ensure optimal dust extraction, it continues to function for two seconds after the drilling operation is ended. The integrated HEPA filter also provides reliable dust protection and, like the dust container, can be cleaned and emptied in just a few easy movements.
Further features of the 18 volt rotary hammers include an LED light on the housing which illuminates the working area, as well as a powerful 6.0 Ah battery. With its accompanying GAL 1880 CV Professional quick charger, the battery is fully charged in just 50 minutes – 30 percent faster than the previous model. The new generation of 18 volt rotary hammers is part of the Flexible Power system and is therefore compatible with Bosch’s entire professional 18 volt system.
The 18 volt GBH 18V-26 Professional and GBH 18V-26 F Professional rotary hammers will be available in various scopes of delivery from specialist retail outlets from January 2017. The GDE 18V-16 Professional dust extraction system will be available from May 2017. Subject to change.