Page 30 - 2021 Connectivity Components: Everything but the Connectors eBook

30
Selecting the Correct Crimp Tool
Emma Ashton, Marketing Manager, COAX Connectors Ltd
Crimp tools are used to produce a reliable, long-lasting joint between the connector and cable, an essential process for optimum connector performance.
When a crimp tool is used to terminate a cable with a connector, two crimps take place at the same time. One is the electrical connection between the conductor and terminal. The other is the insulation crimp. Crimping the insulation provides strain relief against vibration and tension.
Selecting the right size tool for the job is extremely important. Crimp tools are made to crimp to either imperial or metric sizes. While it can be tempting to try to make do with a crimp tool that is not the actual size required, this is not advisable for a number of reasons. Using a crimp tool with a crimp size that is too large will result in a loose and unsecure crimp, with the crimp allowing too much movement of the cable. Over time flexing of the cable will lead to damage to the connection and ultimately loss of signal. When crimping, it is important not to overstress the integrity of a joint. Crimping too tightly with too small a crimp size can be highly detrimental, cutting into the cable and damaging the connector.
» Selecting the correct shape and size crimp tool is essential for a reliable termination.
Using the correct crimp tool shape, whether that be hex, indent, or square, is also essential. Indent and square crimps tend to be used for center contacts, with hex crimps being used for the outer tube. However, hex crimps are used for center contacts for cables with a larger diameter.