What is a Wire Stripping Tool?
What exactly does a wire stripper do? These handheld tools are used to precisely strip the outer sheath or insulation from the end of a wire to connect a second wire, a terminal, or a connector. Standard connection methods, such as crimping, splicing or soldering, require contact with the wire core.
Commercial wire strippers are the standard tool for electricians and they are also widely used by electrical engineers. Other models are designed for hobbyists and DIYers. Wire strippers are also known as cable strippers, or even cable strippers.
Types of Wire Stripper
Various models are available, each designed to tackle particular wire stripping tasks, from light insulation peeling to cutting through tougher materials like copper and conduit. Many are based on the classic plier design.
Some of the different types of wire stripper are explained in more detail below:
This is the simplest form of wire stripping tool, ideal for lighter jobs which require minimal force. They typically feature spring-loaded, self-opening handles and a safety lock.
Variations include:
Adjustable wire strippers - these typically have manual and automatic adjustment mechanisms; insert a wire and the unit will automatically adjust to fit, but precise manual adjustments can also be made
Triple Action Wire Strippers - These specialized models allow the user to apply three different cutting actions - spiral, linear and rotary. The spiral type is particularly well suited for stripping materials such as rubber.
Sheath Strippers - In contrast to the triple action models, sheath strippers offer a simple and effective rotary cut, ideal for two and three core wires and cables. They also typically have automatic adjustment for different diameters.
Pistol Strippers - These models have self-adjusting blades that grip and strip the cable in one motion.
Steel Armored Wire Strippers - These devices feature a reinforced blade specifically designed to cut steel, copper or aluminum shields and conduits in fiber optic or armored cables.
Insulated Wire Strippers - These devices have VDE handles, industry standard certification, indicating that they are insulated against electrostatic discharge.
Automatic Wire Stripping Machine
Automatic or automotive models have synchronized jaws that allow users to easily cut and strip wire sheaths with just a squeeze of the handle.
Laser Wire Strippers
Laser wire stripping tools are a high-end alternative to traditional insulation removal solutions and are favored in situations where a high degree of precision work is required. This may include cables with exceptionally small diameters, unusually hard insulation, or very specialized cables, such as those used in medical equipment.
The laser radiation emitted by the tool vaporizes the insulation, but the internal components are highly reflective and therefore unaffected by the standard beam. If the cable includes any metal shielding, it can be cut using a different type of laser.
How to Use a Wire Stripping Tool Safely
Wire stripping is a crucial, everyday job for electricians and engineers, but like any task involving electrical equipment, safety considerations are crucial. Wire strippers are designed for safety. You can strip smaller wires with a sharp knife, but as a specialist tool, wire strippers are much safer and minimise the risk of injury.
Safety considerations vary according to the type of wire you are working with. Here are a few guidelines:
Thin wires are highly susceptible to damage during stripping, so proceed with caution and use a suitable adjustable stripping tool. This includes TV and broadband cables
Plastic-sheathed cables require preliminary treatment with a stripping tool specifically designed to access the multiple individually sheathed wires within them.
Wires are potentially dangerous, so make sure they are not energized before performing any work. Follow standard electrical safety procedures. Choose wire strippers with insulated handles for added safety, and pay close attention during operation to ensure that nothing is damaged, as this can lead to dangerous electrical failures.
Certain types of wire, such as coaxial cable or wall and floor installations, should only be worked on by professional electricians who are fully trained.
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