About Cable Crimp Tool, Crimping tools have undoubtedly revolutionized work in many industries, be it automotive, telecommunications, or electronics.
They come in different designs, often meant for distinct applications. For instance, wire crimping tools attach electrical wires to connectors, while the modular plugs type connects the plug to TV cables.
As the article below shows, using a crimping tool is fairly easy. Nevertheless, you must follow the steps to create a strong mechanical and electrical joint.
What is a Crimping Tool?
A crimping tool is a device that connects components or materials by pressing on them to create a crimp or seal. Technically, it attaches electrical cables to connectors.
Another function it has is preventing electromagnetic interference and controlling current flow by fixing ferrite beads to the wiring unit.
(Crimping tools)
Most crimp tools are versatile and can perform other functions like stripping, cutting, and bending. Also, some can work with specific gauges, pipe sizes, wires, or cables, while others can function with several.
(A multifunctional crimper)
How does a Crimping Tool work?
Crimpers have two hinged handles containing dies or jaws at the end. When you want to use:
- First, you will place each wire into the connector.
- Secondly, place the wires and connectors into the crimper.
- Next, squeeze the handle together.
Normally, the crimping process holds each wire and punctures the plastic connector to allow data transmission through the connector.
Crimp Tool Categories
Crimp tools have multiple categories based on their requirements. For example, electrical and hydraulic crimp models are good for power-operated applications, while a manually-operated crimp will often suit minute crimping needs.
Pneumatic
A pneumatic comes in either a workbench or manual model and uses compression pressure. Normally, you’ll see the category in heavy-duty applications.
Hydraulic
Secondly, we have hydraulic crimps, which receive power from its hydraulic fluid. Moreover, it needs less effort in its operation but will deliver excellent power for industrial, maintenance, and repair applications.
Benchtop
Benchtop designs have high capacities and are bulky enough for mounting on workbenches during crimping tasks. You can choose to operate them manually or electrically power them.
Electrical
Sometimes, an electrical crimp will have ergonomic fittings and ratchets for various requirements. They also have battery power, meaning, they’ll require less effort when exerting a crimping pressure.
The electrical category lacks solder that can make it mechanically sturdy. However, it must still prevent moisture or oxygen from corroding the metals in the circuitry.
Handheld
As the name suggests, you can operate the handheld category manually. Even better, you can carry it around and use it for smaller objects.
It often resembles a traditional pliers with a notch on one side of its clamp and a ridge on the other. Functionally, it clumps a connector and wire into a notch and then compresses them.
Types of Crimp Tool
Generally, you’ll find several types of crimp tools in the market, all with different functions and specified applications.
(Type of crimpers)
Some of them are:
- Modular plug crimping tools: They crimp connectors to modular plugs, for instance, those utilized in telephone cables.
(Modular plug crimper for RJ-45)
- Network crimping tools: This second type allows users to build dependable network connections since they are ideal for ethernet cables.
- Coaxial cable crimping tools: They crimp electric connectors onto coaxial cables to transmit data and audiovisual.
(Coaxial cable crimping tool)
- Auto electrical crimping tools: Their designation provides a strong attachment between car engine cables and various electrical connectors.
- Wire crimping tools: They attach electrical wires with connectors.
(Wire crimping tool)
- Bootlace crimp tools: They are ideal for bootlace ferrules. As such, they’ll have ratchets and electrical insulation.
- Amp crimping tools: The amp crimp tools connect amp connectors with their corresponding plastic house cables.
- PEX crimping tools: PEX stands for crossed-linked polyethylene. Undoubtedly, PEX is gradually replacing traditional steel and copper in making water pipes. Thus, specialized PEX crimping tools are available for firmly gripping the pipes and applying appropriate pressure.
- Mini crimping tools are suitable for confined areas since some have twirlable heads.
How to use a Crimp Tool
Several crimping techniques experts use are often determined by the cables/wires present and the type of crimp tool required.
We will use the coaxial cable crimping process as an example to give an overview of how crimp tools work.
It’s good to note that using a crimp correctly ensures its ease of use, longevity, reliability, and safety.
Step-by-step guide
- First, use sharp wire cutters to the coaxial cable. Ensure you maintain a cylindrical shape while making a square end.
- Then, place the cable into a stripping tool and exert equal pressure while simultaneously turning the cable.
- Once done, remove the coaxial from the stripping tool. Next, expose the foil’s length by cautiously peeling away the external wire coating from the cuts the stripper makes.
- Now, peel the foil to reveal the internal metal mesh. Carefully bend the mesh over the wire, taking care not to contact the foil’s second layer underneath.
- Position the coaxial cables into a cylindrical F connector, but don’t twist it. In the process, ensure the front flange of the connector presses against the insulation surrounding the central wire within the cable.
(Coaxial connectors for cables)
- Lastly, use a crimping tool to employ firm pressure on the connection and release it afterward.
Note: Inspect the crimp for any loose connectors or exposed wires. You can perform a pull test to confirm that the crimp is mechanically and electrically sound.
Conclusion
To summarize, knowing how a crimp tool works and how to use it efficiently is a crucial skill to have. It will save you a ton of problems when working on automotive or telecommunication systems. As you go through our article, ensure you grasp the basics and knowledge for a solid connection.
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