Crimp tools make the weld joints or deform the material for connecting two materials using compression pressure. The tools allow connected components to be crimped easily and are very efficient. The desired pressure is set for joining parts and the seal for robust sealing applications. Some tools already have built-in dies for precise sealing at terminals. Crimping is a cold-working process developed as a cheap and portable alternative to soldered connections. Wire and cable crimping tools are designed for connecting electrical and metal components. Their differences lie in the type of dies that they use. There are battery-operated tools available today, which are also popular among electricians.
The Importance and Working Principle of a Crimping Tool
The essential function of crimpers is to create a secure connection for sealing various components against moisture and gas to prevent faults in electrical connections. Crimping isn’t possible without crimping tools or using other devices such as pliers. Many crimping tools are ergonomically designed to accommodate both left and right-handed individuals. They also feature a two-hand grip to enhance comfort and productivity. Some crimping devices also feature full-cycle crimp mechanisms.
For easy crimp tools’ operation, the wires to be connected are placed in the crimp tool and the connector. Then, according to the cables’ requirements, the die in the device is set, and the handles are squeezed together for possible pressure. Finally, the connector punctures due to the pressure and ultimately holds the wires together.
Crimp Tool Types
These devices usually come in two types, i.e., manual, or electric. Some even come with a ratchet release mechanism for accurate calibration. Some general types of these include auto-electrical, mini-crimping tools, Pex-crimp tools, Amp crimp tools, and bootlace crimp tools. Some other common types include:
- Handheld Operated Crimp Tools – These tools are simple, easy, and effectively used to crimp smaller components. They are cost-effective and portable and can be carried even in toolboxes everywhere.
- Electrical Crimp Tools – As the name suggests, these devices use Batteries to operate, such as standard manual crimp tools. They differ from standard crimpers as they require less effort.
- Hydraulic Crimp Tools – These crimpers operate using pressures applied through a pump that forces the hydraulic fluid into the crimp, compressing the die and joining the components together.
- Benchtop Crimp Tools (Manual) - These models are operated manually and mounted on the benchtop to handle demanding types of crimping.
- Benchtop Crimp Tools (Electrical) – Similar to manual crimpers, benchtop electrical crimp tools mount on the benchtop; however, an electrical motor operates the tools in the electrical benchtop crimps. It produces high-quality crimps and is the best choice when a large production is required.
- Pneumatic Crimp Tools - Like hydraulic crimp tools, pneumatic models require air pressure for an operation that is difficult to crimp manually and are found to be available in both workbench and manual models. In addition, to the above types, there are crimpers required for specific applications, such as ethernet crimper tools, Cat5 crimping tools, Cat6 crimping tools, wire crimpers, crimp tool kits, etc.
Who Uses Crimp Tools?
Crimping tools are the best and most indispensable tools for various professionals, such as:
- Electricians
- Plumbers
- Technicians
- DIY Hobbyists
- Engineers, and
- Mechanics.
Typical Applications of the Crimp Tools
The applications of crimping tools depend on the applications and the tool type for specific use. They are effectively ideal for:
- Electronic and Electrical Projects
- Plumbing Applications
- Manufacturing Applications
- Fastening Metal Lids on Food Cans
- Electrics and Cable Installation Applications
