All plumbers and drain cleaners are looking to boost job site productivity, while also staying on budget. That often proves difficult, though, as the tools of the trade have become more specialized. However, RIDGID recently introduced the FlexShaft drain cleaning machine, the company’s latest high-speed drain cleaning innovation that is designed to quickly and efficiently deliver wall-to-wall clean in 1- to 4-inch residential and commercial pipes up to 75 feet.

“There was a need for a lighter, portable drain cleaner designed for smaller blockages,” says Wyatt Kilmartin, vice president and general manager, Underground Technologies, RIDGID. “The FlexShaft, if used the right way, fills that need.”

The lightweight and fully contained FlexShaft machines are used in conjunction with a full suite of specialized accessories designed for clearing grease, sludge, small tree roots and soft blockages with less mess and enhanced speed. The machines utilize powerhouse chain knockers that expand to the size of the pipe to quickly clear the entire circumference. The chain knockers are connected to a flexible, nylon-sheathed cable that is housed in a fully enclosed drum and powered by a cordless drill attached to the drive shaft. The FlexShaft machines are purpose-built to be a lightweight, compact solution that can be easily carried from work vehicle to job site with minimal strain on the body.

“This is a solution to a common problem many drain cleaners face, which is why we decided to build this machine,” Kilmartin says. “For years we’ve seen drain cleaners attempting to build smaller, more versatile machines in their garages. This solves that problem, and because it’s powered by a common cordless drill, the cost and weight is kept to a minimum. Every cleaner has a cordless drill in his truck.”

Designed with efficiency and cleanliness in mind, the compact, 24-pound machine allows for inspection cameras to remain in the pipe throughout the entire drain cleaning process for maximum efficiency. The durable nylon sheath allows for the cable to be easily wiped clean as it is pulled from the line, and its fully contained drum limits job site cross-contamination.

“The FlexShaft machine is going to be the ideal solution for soft blockages, which is what most cleaners are facing on a daily basis,” Kilmartin says. “We intended it for drain cleaning use in apartment complexes, restaurants and homes. That’s its best market.” 800-769-7743; www.ridgid.com.