Wacker Neuson’s DF 16 rebar tier

In the space of two years, one device has revolutionized rebar tying on construction sites. Since its launch at the beginning of 2009, the DF 16 rebar tier from Wacker Neuson has turned what was an extremely laborious and time-consuming task into an operator-friendly, productive process. "Rebar tying with the DF 16 is considerably more efficient than twisting and cutting wire with pliers," explains Markus Martin, Product Manager for concrete technology at Wacker Neuson. "A steel fixer can tie around 400 knots an hour. The DF 16 can manage up to 1,000 knots". The ergonomic design enables operators to work much more efficiently than with other methods, particularly on horizontal surfaces such as ceilings or floors. It also enables them to maintain this speed over time. The DF 16 is ideal for both tying rebars and securing plastic pipes for structural HVAC.

Wacker Neuson's rebar tier couldn't be easier to use. To tie bars, the operator simply places the DF 16 on the rebar or plastic pipe and uses one hand to press it down. This releases a tie wire from the cartridge and wraps it around the pipes or reinforcing steel rods. When the device is withdrawn, it twists the wire and pulls it tight. Any worker can use the DF 16 to tie rebars quickly and efficiently. No special training or experience is needed. The device is equipped with a cartridge containing 77 tie wires that is as quick and easy to change as an office stapler. So the DF 16 is always ready for action in just a few simple moves. Martin also goes on to highlight the tier's ergonomic benefits: "Instead of bending, operators can work in a more natural upright position. It eliminates the steps that place strain on the body such as turning your wrist when twisting the wire and breaking it off."

BG Bau, the statutory accident insurance and prevention association for the German construction industry, was also impressed by the DF 16's ergonomic credentials, awarding it the Euro Test prize in April 2010 for its outstanding contribution to occupational health and safety. In its award statement, BG Bau praised the DF 16 for "making rebar tying a significantly easier job, raising occupational health and safety levels for steel fixers while at the same time increasing productivity". The DF 16 is also a purely mechanical device, making it extremely robust and always ready for action. Unlike battery-powered tiers, operators do not have to contend with downtime for battery charging, power supply issues or problems in wet weather. And the robust design is ideal for the typically rough conditions on building sites.