Makita AVT - What is it?
Posted by Katy | Toolstop on 7th Feb 2022
AVT stands for Anti Vibration Technology and is Makita's ground breaking innovation in vibration protection.
What is AVT?
When using power tools, vibration is a by product, and all too much of it can be harmful. One manufacturer who takes vibration seriously is Makita. We asked them what they’re doing to make sure they’re producing power tools that can be used safely for longer. Their answer is quite simply AVT. In this blog post, we'll delve into what Makita AVT is, how it works, and the benefits it brings to both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.
The Importance of Anti Vibration Technology
Makita AVT stands for Anti-Vibration Technology. It is a proprietary system developed by Makita to minimise the levels of vibration experienced during tool operation. Vibration is an inherent aspect of power tools, stemming from the motor, gears, and other moving components. While some degree of vibration is expected, excessive levels can lead to discomfort, fatigue, and even long-term health issues such as vibration white finger (VWF) and hand-arm vibration (HAV).
Makita's AVT system employs a combination of innovative engineering and advanced materials to address this challenge. It aims to significantly reduce vibration and impact shock, ultimately providing users with a more comfortable and safer experience.
White Finger, a form of Raynaud's syndrome, triggered by continuous use of vibrating hand-held machinery.
How Does it Work?
"Makita's new generation of machines are more powerful than ever before, but thanks to AVT technology, they also break new ground in vibration protection".
Makita AVT works by using a combination of technologies:
Counterbalance Technology: Makita AVT incorporates a counterbalance mechanism that effectively offsets the vibrations generated by the tool's internal components. This counterbalance system operates in real-time, reacting to the vibrations and minimising their impact on the user's hands and arms.
Advanced Dampening Materials: The use of specialised dampening materials in the construction of AVT-equipped tools further contributes to vibration reduction. These materials absorb and dissipate vibrations before they reach the user's hands, thereby reducing the strain on the user's body.
Floating Handle Design: Some Makita power tools with AVT feature a floating handle design. This design isolates the handle from the main body of the tool, preventing the transfer of vibrations to the user's hands. This is particularly beneficial for tasks that require prolonged tool operation.
How are we Protecting Users of Power Tools?
Employers are legally obliged to make sure employees are not at risk from such injuries and in July 2005, the Physical Agents Directive became law. This meant that power tools had to be measured to determine the amount of vibration they create, and this information had to be made available to everyone.
Less vibration means you can use your power tools for longer. Look out for the AVT logo on Makita tools.
AVT Explained
Watch as Makita’s UK training manager, Ray Wilby, runs through the various ways Makita are implementing AVT on their power tools in this video:
The Traffic Light Scheme
When buying a new Makita tool, or any power tool for that matter, you should first refer to the Makita traffic light scheme below to help you determine how long you can use it for safely. Vibration levels for tools can be found in the product manual if they are not listed on our product pages.
The green light means the machine will be safe to use all day long. You can also use Makita's online vibration calculator to find out just how much of a standard daily allowance you are being exposed to for each tool you use.
Example Calculation
We recommend you download Makita's traffic light scheme using the button above so you've always got it to hand.
Example:
Makita HR1841F AVT SDS Plus Rotary Hammer: Vibration K Factor: 1.5 m/s_
By following the chart, we can see that this model can be used all day long without worrying about damage caused by vibration thanks to its low vibration value.
Makita's Anti-Vibration Technology (AVT) is a testament to the brand's commitment to innovation and user-centric design. By addressing the issue of excessive vibrations in power tools, Makita has elevated user comfort, safety, and efficiency to a whole new level. Whether you're a professional tradesperson or a DIY enthusiast, investing in tools equipped with AVT can make a noticeable difference in your work quality and overall tool-using experience.