For simple single-wire crimping jobs, a standard crimp joint is perfectly acceptable. Datacom operations might require a ratchet crimper because these operations may involve the crimping of a connector across a number of wires rather than a single wire. The ratchet allows the jaws of the crimper to be placed with more accuracy and limits the possibility of human error when compressing the teeth. Extra Pressure for Crimping Applicationsįor jobs that require a lot of pressure and precision, a ratchet crimper can be helpful. A crimping job that needs precision and focus and involves multiple parts does not require a spring-loaded crimper, although a spring-loaded crimper can easily be used. This is only necessary for crimping operations that are numerous in number and require little preparation, because the spring is designed to speed up performance.

Plastic crimper handles are fine for lower level operations involving softer metals or plastic crimping jobs. If a hard metal like steel is being crimped, it is important to find a crimper with steel handles, otherwise they might snap during operation.

Additionally, crimping operations can require a lot of pressure. Handheld Crimpersīecause handheld crimpers are common, it is important to find crimpers with ergonomic, soft handle designs, especially when a job requires numerous crimping operations. It is important to find a crimper that handles the appropriate wire gauges needed.ĭieless crimpers are much more common and are intended for general use crimping actions because they have no pre-determined shape.

Some more complex crimpers can handle more than ten gauge sizes. Crimpers are often designed for a range of different wire sizes, encompassing four to eight different sizes to make the crimper more applicable to various projects. Crimpers designed with a distinct crimped shape in mind are called “died crimpers” because they employ pre-determined die sizes in their jaws. Very large wire diameters are expressed as series of zeroes, such as 0000, and the gauge goes up to 50, a very small wire. The AWG rates wires with an ascending numerical system, where the higher the rating, the smaller the wire diameter. This is a rating of standardized wire diameters used to determine wire sizes. Crimping to Wiresīecause many crimping applications involve the crimping of metal connectors to wire, such as coax connector assemblies, crimpers are usually rated based on the American wire gauge. While most crimpers are manual tools, hydraulic crimpers exist for users who need extra force or who perform many crimps a day. Additionally, some crimpers are multipurpose tools that have additional features such as cutters and wire shredders, features that complement the usual applications needing crimping. The types of differences in crimpers include the size or sizes of the crimping jaws, the hand grip, the material of the crimpers as well as pressure capabilities. Essentially, the crimpers are used to clamp metal to a substrate and, when enough pressure is exerted, deform the metal to a point where it is securely fastened.

The electrical and communications industries comprise a majority of crimping operations due to the high number of connectors used on wires.Įxamples of applications requiring crimping include coax cable connector assemblies, bullets, and wired mesh connections. There are a number of differences in function and purpose that need be navigated in selecting the proper crimper for a job. Tools designed specifically for crimping, alternatively called crimpers or crimping pliers, are available in a number of sizes and designs. Crimping is the act of using a tool to deform metal or other material in order to seal a joint or fastener.

Metal crimping rivet types