P.S. Is this similar to Stream system have previously seen
No it is totally different. They new clamps look to be a vast improvement on the old ones, which were awkward to use and needed a special tool- the 'tucker tool'.
The 2002 HSL report on the use of waterfed poles pointed out that, because the use of the tool was fiddly and time consuming (not to mention that the tool was prone to being lost), the worker often used the pole at the wrong angle, whch could put excessive strain on their back and cause injury.
"In order to make it easier for user to adjust the length of poles 'on the fly', the clips between pole sections should be easy to release and adjust. The plastic clips on the fibre glass poles are ideal in this respect because they are easy to adjust. The metal clips on the aluminium poles need a special tool for adjustments and it is possible that as a result, the users may be less inclined to make the necessary adjustments to pole length during cleaning."
The old tucker clamp. A tool is needed to adjust itAmong the recommendations of the report, it said:
"It would be useful for the relevant manufacturer to look at ways of eliminating the need for a hand tool to fasten / unfasten the clips on the aluminium poles. Ideally, all the clips should be quick and easy to use, even when weraring gloves"
Now, 4 years later, tucker have introduced their new "pennel" clamp which doesn't need a tool.
It still fastens by means of a worm gear, like the old clamp, but it has little plastic wings (like a wingnut) to tighten instead of the little stubby piece that you fitted the tool onto. These new clamps can also be retro-fitted onto existing poles.
There'll be pictures of it in the next PWC.
-Philip
