How to sharpen wire cutters

Hand cutters for metal: professional side cutters, criteria for choosing a tool, how to sharpen the cutters

Wire cutters are a tool designed for cutting wires and wires. It works on the principle of a lever. Pressure is generated in the cutting part, due to which the wire (or other metal products) is cut. The tool is necessary in plumbing, for installers and electricians whose occupation involves cutting wires and wires. Sometimes the tool is used to work with plastics.

Characteristics of nippers and types

There are two main types of nippers : side and end . Side cutters are also called side cutters. Each type can be characterized as follows:

• For side cutters, the handles are on the same plane as the cutting blades.
• The end handles with the cutting edge are located perpendicularly.

Wire cutters come in different sizes depending on their purpose. For thick wires or fittings, bolt cutters (power cutters) are used.

Design and classification by blade type

Wire cutters have the following components:

• Jaws with cutting edges. Working part of the tool. The edges must close tightly, otherwise there will be no result.
• Screw lock. It should be durable, because it bears a significant load when working with the tool.
• Pens. Handles are often made with an insulating winding for protection. In addition, they should be comfortable for the hand, because the master should be comfortable when working.
• Spring. It returns the tool to its original working position after cutting the wire(s).

There are several types of wire and wire cutters based on the type of blade:

• straight;
• curved;
• oval;
• semicircular;
• rectangular;
• box-shaped.

Features of choosing a tool

Choosing a good tool is not too difficult. Firstly, it must be visually of high quality, that is, it must not fall apart before our eyes. Secondly, the cutting blades must fit tightly together and not overlap each other.

It is important that the lock is strong . There are single-hinge and double-hinge locks. Double-hinged ones are more convenient to use; they allow you to apply less load when cutting iron. The locking mechanism should operate softly and smoothly.

The spring must be visually of high quality (the physical quality will become clear as work progresses). As we have already said, the handles are made comfortable for the convenience of the master. It is important that the instrument fits well in the hand.

Insulation helps protect the worker when working with high voltage electrical wires.

Operating rules

Nippers, like other cutting tools, must be used carefully. It is advisable to cut the wire at an angle of ninety degrees (if there is no other task). Don't put too much pressure on the handles. It is better to do everything slowly and smoothly, otherwise, if there is a constant heavy load on the lock, the tool may break. You also need to release the handles smoothly so that the spring does not fly out. In general, do not make sudden movements.

Tips for quality sharpening

With constant use, the tool may become dull . You can take it to a workshop, or you can try to sharpen it yourself.

Before starting sharpening work, you should make sure that the cutting edges occupy the same position under any load. In other words, so that there is no gap between the hinge hole and the axle (or backlash, as it is also called). If such a problem exists, then it needs to be corrected. In the middle of the end it is necessary to make a hole with a drill measuring two times smaller than the diameter of the axis. Using gentle blows of a hammer, you need to push the metal apart.

If the metal in the axle is strong and the previous method does not bring success, you need to use a sharp center punch to make several shallow depressions at the end of the pliers with a gap of two millimeters and a millimeter of indentation from the edges. A hammer is also used here. You should hit carefully so as not to disrupt the ease of movement of the tool.

A file grinds off excess metal from the blades . Sharpening is best done using an abrasive rotating wheel. For a good result, you need to use only a smooth circle of the correct shape, otherwise you won’t be able to do the job well.

If the circle is uneven, then you should either grind the existing one or use another one. You need to use both the end of the circle and its cylindrical surface. Then the sharpening will be of high quality.

The metal must be removed carefully to ensure precise alignment of the cutting edges.

To increase the service life of the tool, proper operation is necessary. It is not recommended to cut thick wire or other solid iron materials with a tool that is not designed for such loads. Wire cutters are commonly used for cutting aluminum and copper wires. Other metals need to be cut with special reinforced nippers. Conventional ones can quickly fail when cutting steel or other metals.

Source: https://chebo.biz/tehnologii/ruchnye-kusachki-po-metallu-kak-zatochit-instrument.html

Types of wire cutters for electrical work

The abundance of tools today is so great that it is possible to find absolutely any tool to perform a wide variety of tasks. When carrying out large-scale repair work or small ones around the house, it is very difficult to do without wire cutters. With this tool, you can easily cut any material without disturbing the structure of its elements and, as a result, get an even and neat cut. There are many different types of wire cutters for different purposes.

Nippers are a universal tool that allows you to cut metal or plastic products that work on the “lever” principle. This device can cut 5-7 mm thick wire, electrical wire or power cable. They are used for installation or dismantling work, also in the electrical field.

Types and design features

Choosing wire cutters, like any other tool, is necessary based on the requirements and the desired result in the end. The design of the cutters consists of two elements:

• A handle that allows you to comfortably hold the tool in your hands;
• Cutting jaws.

Based on the shape of the cutting “jaws”, the features of their location, and sizes, the types of nippers are determined:

• End
• Side cutters
• Bolt cutters

In order to ensure electrical safety, insulating materials are used in the manufacture of handles, which help protect the master’s hands from high voltage or electric shock. Based on the handle design, there are two types of cutters: insulating and insulated.

Nippers with an insulated coating on the handle are made of dielectric, and for tools with an insulating coating, it is also equipped with cutting inserts. The structure of the handles is designed in such a way that they are similar to guide levers, the surface does not slip under the hand and does not wrinkle, and is resistant to humidity, technical oils and substances with a high level of chemicals. activity.

End

End cutters are used when performing installation work, in the construction field, during the laying of electrical networks. The working element is made of reinforced steel with a chrome-plated surface. The cutting jaws of the tool are highly durable and are sharpened using a special technology, which ensures that work is performed at a high level with the required quality. The handles are made of dielectric and are resistant when working with high levels of electric current.

Side cutters

The location of the working element is at an angle relative to the tool head. The most powerful cutters of this direction ensure operational efficiency by creating additional reinforcements and hardening with high-frequency currents.

Professional side cutters are made of tool steel, which undergoes heat treatment and multi-stage hardening. The handles of this type of tool are convenient and comfortable to grip and can withstand impact forces of up to 75 kg.

Bolt cutters

Used for cutting wires or rods up to 12 mm thick. They are equipped with long handles for convenience and have a double lever design. During operation, it is felt that at the beginning they apply an applied force to the intermediate link, which increases its value, and then to the cutting part.

How and where they are used for electrical work

Wire cutters are a very important tool in the field of electrical work. Wire cutters of any model can rightfully be considered an electrical installation tool if they are equipped with insulating tubes on the handle made of rubber or plastic. The material used to make the levers for electrician's wire cutters is steel.

An electrician uses this tool in the work process to cut a wire when replacing or fixing a problem. For each type of wire cutter there are certain tasks when the master performs the work. Having a good tool for its intended purpose will allow you to perform the necessary work efficiently and without harm to health.

Varieties by area of ​​application

Based on the area of ​​application, the type of nippers is as follows:

• Electrical (cable cutting); Used for cutting insulated aluminum or copper cables with a diameter of over 35 mm.
• Pin cutters and reinforcement cutters (designed for working with wire and reinforcement); Used when working with non-heated wire, the thickness of which is up to 4 mm.

How to choose the best wire cutters

When buying wire cutters, you should always pay attention to the tightness of contact of the cutting edges, the absence of irregularities and notches on this part of the tool. It is also important that the edges are at the same level and do not overlap each other.

When choosing a model for yourself, you need to experiment with the handle; if it is not convenient, it is better to take another copy, since convenience and comfort will play an important role in the work process. If you need a tool to work with electrical installation equipment, then you definitely need to take wire cutters with an insulating winding.

It is also worth paying attention to the fact that the materials from which the instrument is made are moisture-resistant, oil-resistant, and also do not slip in the palm of your hand and have a solid, solid body.

Source: https://VseOToke.ru/instrument/kusachki-dlya-provoloki

Hand-held metal nippers: how to sharpen a tool

A tool such as a wire cutter is designed to cut it; it works on the principle of a lever, which increases the effort required to cut materials. Let's think about what we could say about this device.

The main purpose for which cable cutters are used is to cut wires and wires or other components. They are also needed when it is necessary to make small cuts in metal or plastic during installation or dismantling of equipment .

This tool can easily cut wires of any diameter, but not too large . In order to make the work easier, when cutting the wires, you need to keep them very close to the hinges of the cutters.

 Basically, two types of nippers are used in work: side and end .

For side cutters, the handles are always located in the same plane as the cutting edges or jaws; a small angle is possible between them. These cutters also have a second name – side cutters. When the cutting edges are perpendicular to the planes of the handles, the tool is called end cutters .

If we compare the design of wire cutters with scissors, we can note that the main difference is in the interlocking cutting jaws. Wire cutters vary in shape and size . If you need to cut very thick wires, then you need to use professional power cutters .

Such tools have a second name - bolt cutters.

What device does the tool have?

Typically, all types of this tool consist of the following parts: jaws with cutting edges, which can have different shapes; screw lock (can be not only single, but also double); handles with reinforcing stops; plastic return spring. The working parts or jaws are connected with a special lock with a reinforced structure; reinforcement cutters have a particularly carefully made connection.

The existing plastic spring, which is located between the handles, helps return the jaws to their original position, or to the working position, immediately after a wire or wire has been cut. The cutting edges always close very tightly throughout the entire tool, or rather around the perimeter . The hinge joint in such a device, as a rule, has an easy and smooth movement so as not to force the worker to exert additional force.

Experts often use different types of wire cutters. For example, pliers with straight jaws, also called blades, can be straight or curved not only along the plane, but also along the edge .

And wire cutters with oval jaws are divided into straight and curved along the edges and along the planes . There are also nippers with semicircular jaws, and often a similar tool is straight .

You can find models with box-shaped or rectangular jaws in some specific areas.

How to find good metal cutters?

A quality instrument has several special features that are sometimes obvious to us. For example, there should be no dents, burrs or nicks, and the cutting edges should always touch very closely along the entire length . It is also important that the cutting edges do not overlap each other.

Screw locks on an instrument can be removable, but this is rare, or non-detachable. But you should pay attention to something else! They can be single-hinge or double-hinge (these are often double-gear locks) . Double-hinged ones can reduce the forces that develop on the handles.

It will also be useful to know that the presence of a return leaf spring allows you to automatically return the working edges to their original position immediately after the pressure is stopped.

When making wire cutters, care is taken to ensure that they are not only safe, but also comfortable. To achieve this, tool handles often have an insulating winding . This allows them to be used as an electrical installation tool for working under high voltage.

Based on the presence of insulating materials, instruments are divided into insulating and insulating . The insulated handles have a special coating of materials that ensure safety.

Insulating tools are made entirely of insulating materials and have metal cutting inserts.

Moreover, during production, it is taken into account that the materials are not only wrinkle-resistant, but also moisture-resistant, oil-resistant, gasoline-resistant, and not slippery or fragile. During manufacturing, care is also taken to ensure that the electrical insulation provides protection against electric shock within the limits that correspond to the insulating materials . Now let's talk about how to use the tool so as not to harm yourself, not damage the cable and achieve a high-quality cut.

How to use wire cutters?

When using this tool, you need to know some rules and features. Metal cutters are installed on the elements being cut or bitten, usually at an angle of 90 degrees.

There is no need to be zealous during work; the device, both in the initial position and when performing work, must always be in a free grip, otherwise unwanted forces may occur on the cutting blades.

 Be sure to monitor the cutting and movement of the tool while working.

If the device moves in a direction that is not safe for people, then you must immediately release the handle or simply turn it in a different direction.

If you need to cut massive elements, and this could be beams or hinges, then it is better to do the work in a recess; it is often provided in the cutting part of the tool.

During operations, the cutting parts must be closed, and if they diverge, the work is suspended, otherwise a breakage may occur in the jaws of the pliers . When cutting massive elements with large tools, you need an assistant who will support or move the bitten elements to a safe distance.

How to sharpen wire cutters at home?

At home, you often have to use wire cutters for various jobs. They may become dull over time, but there is no need to rush to the workshop, you can fix everything yourself, and we will now tell you how to sharpen the wire cutters . First you need to get a sharpener, or better yet, a device with a rotating circle of low power.

Not only an electric sharpener is suitable, but also a manual version . There is no need to process any elements at the end of the circle, otherwise everything may fly apart. The design of the circle is such that scattering in it is excluded .

Another device, and this may be a block, will not work, otherwise sharpening will take a very long time.

We must remember that if the sharpening tool is made not of abrasive materials, but of metals, then the cutters will not become sharp!

When starting to sharpen, you must first close the nippers and then bring them with the back side close to the circle. This is the side where the surface is concave . We very easily press the tool against the circle, which is rotating at this time, and turn it a little at a small angle. This technique will allow you to sharpen all the spaces between the blades well .

If a section of the blade begins to shine, this means it has been well processed. In order to subsequently protect the wire cutters from becoming dull, you need to handle them correctly . No need to cut steel products, even paper clips . The purpose of this tool is to work with copper or aluminum wires .

In rare cases, it is possible to cut wires with steel insulation, but a knife can also serve as a substitute.

Today's lesson is very important for novice sharpeners, since correct sharpening of nail clippers is a precise and responsible task. We can say that nail clippers are one of the most difficult tools to sharpen . I know from my practice that beginners quickly master sharpening scissors than nail clippers, since the operating principle and geometry of the clippers are different from scissors and getting the right angles is sometimes difficult even for experienced craftsmen.

The step-by-step sharpening technology is as follows.

Step 1. Check the joint of the pliers for play, which is present in 90% of tweezers received for sharpening . Backlash is detected by wobbling of the blades of the pliers in the joint, and without eliminating it, sharp cutting edges have no meaning.
When we are sure that the play has been eliminated in both cases, lubricate the joint of the pliers with machine oil and clamp and unclench several times . If the joint is dirty, let the dirt (or rust) soak in the oil for several minutes .

Step 2. Now let's take care of the blades of the nippers, which are the main critical area when sharpening .
We sharpen the blades from the inside. According to A. Sharp’s method, this operation can be performed in two ways on the ZAT-36U machine: straight-line and radius, with the help of which you can achieve high-quality closure of the blades.

Step 3. We sharpen the blades from the outside, correct the tips and visually verify the sharpness of the cutting edge.

Step4. After this, we take a piece of leather and, holding the blade with a piece of leather on both sides, we pinch it and pull it towards us . Then we clean the blade from unnecessary particles with cotton wool. We perform this procedure with both blades . We clamp the pliers and look at the gap against a light background. Next, we hold the pliers with our left hand and turn the blades upward .

Step 5. Place the pliers with the blades up, as they should lie correctly, with your right hand, carefully file with a fine-grained diamond stone and trim the contact area . This operation must be performed carefully so as not to spoil the geometry of the blade. We file until the mirror plane on the tip of the blade is barely visible . Let's unclench and see what both blades have covered in this operation.

Now we clean the blades from microparticles, first with a piece of leather, then with cotton wool. If, when viewed through the light, we see tight contact of the cutting edges. . then you can check the sharpness of the blades . This is done on a thin and soft polyethylene film . If the nippers leave an even cut, then the nippers are sharp. And if they pull the film, then repeat the listed procedures until the desired result is obtained.

Here I have outlined the sharpening technology, and you will learn more about this in my book “Secrets of Professional Sharpening.”

Now let’s talk about the tool base and what to use for sharpening. There are different methods of sharpening, from manual sharpening on a diamond stone to performing this procedure on a precision machine. Although they are performed in different ways . But still, they are all called manual sharpening.

The difference between the traditional method (on the left) and the new technology (A. Sharp’s method on the right) of sharpening manicure and hairdressing instruments.

1. This method requires skill and long-term experience, and achieving high-quality sharpening is a difficult task, especially for a beginner.

2. The circle runout is large. The larger the circle, the more radial or planar runout occurs . It is difficult to escape from this law, so sharpening on small wheels turns out to be more accurate and of higher quality.

3. There is no rigid fixation of the workpiece (all metalworking machines operate on this principle) and with one awkward movement of the hands, the tool can be easily rejected. Therefore, not only beginners, but also experienced craftsmen have a fear of ruining the client’s instrument .

4. As a consequence of the above points, with this method it is difficult to achieve a clear closure of the cutting edges, and therefore high-quality sharpness, as in A. Sharp’s method. Below in the video, see a fragment of the work using this method

Source: https://mirvera.ru/ruchnye-kusachki-po-metallu-kak-zatochit-instrument

How to choose good wire cutters: characteristics of models and features of choice

A good handyman always has a variety of different tools at home, each used for a specific task. One of the most famous tools is end cutters or any other type. People often talk about the purposes for which this tool is used, and almost everyone already knows its main purpose.

Any wire cutter is used primarily for cutting wire. The basis of the tool's operation is the principle of leverage. With the help of the best cutters, you can reduce the amount of effort required when cutting various materials to a minimum. It turns out that you don’t have to put in almost any serious effort to cut the wire.

It will not be possible to do without this tool if there is a need to make small cuts, for example, on plastic.

Often, without tools, it will not be possible to perform installation/disassembly of any equipment.

If you have, for example, side cutters at home, then without any special physical effort, you can cut any wire yourself without any problems.

In order to quickly cope with such a task as cutting a cable, you only need to keep the main wire as close as possible to the hinges of the tool.

Special cutters

One of the most famous varieties of this tool are bolt cutters. They are used to quickly bite through the rod. An important point: the thickness of the rod in this case should not be more than 1.2 cm.

Another popular type of special cutters are tools that are actively used by craftsmen when it is necessary to cut small electronic parts. They are distinguished by a mirror surface, open neatly, and are also always equipped with an additional device that can remove static electricity if necessary.

Speaking about how to choose wire cutters, it is noted that the above-mentioned point is definitely worth paying attention to during the purchase.

Features of the instrument

Regardless of which type of nippers was chosen, the tool will definitely have certain parts.

• Sponges equipped with cutting arms.
• Screw type lock. Available on double/single models.
• Handle with additional stops.
• Spring.

If you look at the instructions on how to sharpen wire cutters, you will definitely see a special lock there. It is necessary to connect all working parts with the existing jaws. The lock has an additional design.

How to choose wire cutters for working at home?

If, looking through photos of wire cutters, you are lost and don’t know what to choose, then you need the help of professionals. So, what are the characteristics of good quality wire cutters?

Firstly, the tool must be free of any small burrs or any kind of defects.

Secondly, it is necessary to pay attention to the fact that the existing edges of the tongs must touch each other as tightly as possible exactly in the middle.

Thirdly, in no case do the cutting edges of a high-quality tool extend beyond each other. On some models you can see, as previously mentioned, a detachable screw-type lock, but in the last couple of years finding such a tool has been a real rarity. Mostly tools with one-piece locks are offered in stores.

In addition, there are double-hinged/single-hinged locks. A tool equipped with a lock of the first type makes it possible to reduce to a minimum the force that usually develops on the handles of the pliers.

And in conclusion, it is worth noting the importance of the return leaf spring, since it is thanks to it that the working edges quickly return to their original position. This is usually done after the pressure has been completed.

In construction hypermarkets today you can find tools for almost every taste. Based on your own financial capabilities, you will certainly be able to choose the kind of wire cutters that will please you for many years.

Photos of good wire cutters

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Source: https://instrumentgid.ru/kak-vybrat-xoroshie-kusachki/

What are side cutters used for?

A tool that uses the lever principle to increase gain is called a wire cutter. Today, the industry produces several types of wire cutters. If the cutting jaws are at right angles to the plane of the handles, then such a tool is called an end tool. If the cutting edges are located in the same plane as them, then the nippers are called side cutters, or side cutters.

The main purpose of cutters of any type is to cut wires, cables, wires, as well as to make small cuts in plastic and metal when installing and dismantling equipment and metal structures. The object being cut is held as close as possible to the hinge of the cutter - this makes the job easier. At the same time, the capabilities of the tool, despite all the tricks, remain limited - it is used to work with wire of a relatively small diameter.

Specialized cutters

To cut particularly thick wires, special, reinforced wire cutters are used. A power tool designed for cutting thick metal rods is called bolt cutters. If it is necessary to work under voltage, then use a tool with handles covered in insulating material. Household hand tools are designed to work with voltages up to 1000 volts.

Such side cutters and nippers are classified as electrical installation devices. They are isolated and insulating. The former have an insulating coating on the handles, the latter are made entirely of insulating material with metal inserts for cutting products. You can get acquainted with the approximate range of such tools, for example, here.

The quality of electrical installation tools directly depends on indicators such as:

• tight fit of the insulating material to the material of the handle (ideally it should be non-removable);
• the material of the handles should be non-slip, oil-, moisture- and petrol-resistant, and, if possible, not easily soiled;
• solidity and density of the material of the handles - so that dirt, dust, grease do not get clogged and accumulate in the cracks.

A few more words about the handles

The main rule is that the longer the handles, the greater the force that can be applied to the object being bitten. But the longer the handles, the more expensive the product itself. From a practical point of view, it makes no sense to spend extra money on purchasing a massive tool if the task is to cut through wire of only a small diameter.

It is better to take side cutters with long handles according to the principle “with a reserve” - if the volume and type of work to be done is not known in advance.

Side cutters are a sought-after tool and are widely used by both home craftsmen and professionals. Their popularity is due to their effectiveness, as well as ease of use and inexpensive price.

What it is?

Side cutters are one of the types of wire cutters and belong to the category of plumbing tools. They are designed quite simply and consist of a handle, a return spring and side-mounted cutting jaws. The handles are connected to each other using a reinforced hinge, which can make the movement of the jaws smoother. The return spring is located between the handles and is responsible for returning the lips to their original position after biting.

The main difference between side cutters and end cutters is that the jaws of the cutters are perpendicular to the handle, while the jaws of the side cutters are parallel or at a slight angle.

The requirements for the tool are clearly stated in GOST 28037-89 and require the use of steel grades U7, U7A and 8xF for its production.

The cutting edges must have a hardness of 55.5 to 61 HRC Rockwell, the permissible gap between the cutting edges should not exceed 0.1 mm, and the hinge diametrical gap should not exceed 0.5 mm in each direction.

The force when opening the jaws is also regulated by the state standard and must be within 9.8 N. The maximum permissible displacement of the cutting edges among themselves for side cutters with a length of 125 mm should not exceed 0.3 mm, for longer samples of sizes 140, 160, 180 and 200 mm – 0.4 mm.

The principle of operation of side cutters is based on the principle of operation of a lever, in which, due to the difference in the lengths of the handles and lips, it becomes possible to compress the latter with greater force.

The scope of application of the tool includes household needs and professional repair and construction work.

Thus, side cutters are widely used in the installation of electrical networks consisting mainly of aluminum and copper wires with voltages up to 1000 V, as well as for cutting thin metal, plastic and even steel reinforcement.

Types and their characteristics

The main feature of the classification of side cutters is their specialization. According to this criterion, the tool is conditionally divided into 4 groups, each of which has its own working qualities and purpose.

Standard

This type of side cutters represents the largest group of tools and is intended for cutting wires and wires with a diameter of up to 2.3 mm. The advantage of standard models is wide consumer availability, low cost and a large assortment, represented by both products from well-known world brands and budget models from little-known companies.

The disadvantages of this type include the inability of the tool to interact with materials of increased hardness and the frequent lack of insulating coating on the handles, which makes it impossible to use them when installing electrical networks.

Reinforced

Power side cutters are designed for performing plumbing and installation work of increased complexity and belong to the category of professional tools. For the manufacture of cutting elements of such models, especially strong, highly hardened carbon steel is used, and the cutting edges are often equipped with pobedit or carbide tips. This allows them to easily handle sheet metal and thin fittings.

Source: https://MyTooling.ru/instrumenty/dlja-chego-nuzhny-bokorezy

Is it possible to sharpen wire cutters and how to do it?

When using cutters, chips and roundings may form on the cutting edges, the plane of contact between the two parts of the tool may not coincide, and the contact density along the length may be lost. As a result, they become impossible to cut. Therefore, to restore functionality, it is important to know how to sharpen your wire cutters.

Sharpening side cutters on a machine

What sharpening methods are there?

Side cutters can be sharpened in the following ways:

• manually, using human power and hand tools for processing;
• using power tools.

Manual methods:

• file;
• sandpaper;
• sharpening stone.

Mechanized methods:

• on a grinding machine;
• Bulgarian

How to determine that a tool needs sharpening?

You can tell when your pliers need to be sharpened by the following signs:

• the cutting is not completed completely, connected parts of the material remain;
• you need to put in a lot of effort when working;
• burrs are visible on the edges.

Equipment

What are the advantages of sharpening wire cutters using professional equipment:

• high turning speed;
• precision angle adjustment, clear fixation of the position of the sharpening discs relative to the cutting part being sharpened;
• the ability to fully automate work on CNC equipment;
• safety during processing;
• setting the engine speed.

Many machines are equipped with quick-release mechanisms for abrasive discs and manipulators for quickly changing the position of the tool being sharpened. Brand manufacturers include a set of grinding wheels of various grain sizes, allowing for coarse or fine grinding.

Due to the high processing speed and automatic sharpening quality control, increased efficiency is achieved when performing similar tasks. The number of changeable settings is minimal.

Professional equipment is of the following types:

• mechanical, equipped with diamond-coated abrasive discs, due to which the strength of the metal is preserved, the edges are sharpened, and the service life is not significantly reduced;
• laser, allow you to quickly remove metal from the edges, but make it fragile.

The choice of a specific machine depends on the requirements for the quality and speed of sharpening the wire cutters.

Sharpening tools at home

At home, step-by-step sharpening of wire cutters using a file is performed as follows:

1. The presence of play is checked; if there is any, it is necessary to seal the connection in a way that depends on its type.
2. The surfaces at the joints are cleaned using sandpaper. To do this, it is folded so that it can go into all places. The operation is performed first on one side and then on the other.
3. The plane of the cutting edge is sharpened. To do this, place the tool on a flat surface, fix it, and then use smooth movements of the file in the same direction to cut the cutting part from the inside.
4. The corners of the blades are sharpening. The cutters are located on the edge of the table and are fixed manually.
5. The outer parts of the blades are sharpened.
6. The “cheeks” are polished.
7. Final edge polishing is carried out along the cutting edges.
8. The cutting quality is checked. If it is of poor quality, then all stages of turning are performed again.
9. Apply a thin layer of lubricant to the junction of the pliers, and, if necessary, to store the tool, to the entire working part.

The quality of sharpening is checked as follows:

1. After processing the edges, the nippers must be securely fastened so that there is no play between the two parts.
2. Take thin polyethylene and stretch it in a convenient way.
3. Cuts with pliers. The edges should be smooth without burrs or torn parts. The cutting line must be continuous.

Do-it-yourself tool sharpening

Tools

To sharpen tweezers, you will need to prepare the following tools:

• vice;
• diamond-coated needle file;
• core;
• small hammer;
• screwdriver;
• anvil and a flat metal surface;
• 2 pieces of cardboard;
• calipers.

Sharpening level

Checking the sharpening level is carried out as follows:

1. The polyethylene sheet is fixed so that the edge is smooth. The cutting edge is placed over the stretched film. An incision is made; there should be no torn or pulled parts.
2. The stretch film is fixed in a similar way, then the blades are closed along the entire length. The cut should be smooth, without snags or bends.
3. A non-woven cloth allows you to determine the presence of burrs on a metal edge. With high-quality assembly and sharpening of the tweezers, an even cut is obtained.
4. Vinyl gloves are pulled between the edges of the tweezers, then pulled down. If the cutting is smooth and there are no pulled edges, sharpening can be considered completed.

Selecting all the tools in advance will allow you to complete all stages of sharpening the tweezers without any problems.
How to sharpen wire cutters with your own hands. 5 MAIN FACTORS WITHOUT WHICH NOTHING WILL WORK.

Is it possible to sharpen wire cutters and how to do it? Link to main publication

Source: https://metalloy.ru/obrabotka/zatochka/kusachek

Features of choosing hand cutters for working with metal: application, selection and operation

In the arsenal of a home craftsman there are quite a few different tools designed to perform various operations. One commonly used is wire cutters. Many people are well aware of the purpose of this tool. It is mainly used for cutting wire.

Its work is based on the principle of leverage. By using metal cutters, you can increase the effort required to cut materials. As a result, cutting the wire into pieces of the required length can be done without much effort. This device will be discussed later in this article.

What are wire cutters used for?

The main thing these hand pliers are used for is cutting wires and wires . They can also be used to cut other metal materials.

Also, you cannot do without this tool in cases where it becomes necessary to make small cuts in plastic. This is often required when installing or dismantling equipment.

If you have wire cutters in your arsenal, then when you need to cut a wire or cable, you can cut a wire of almost any diameter, but not too large, without any serious physical effort.

To make this task easy, you need to keep the wire very close to the hinges of the cutters when cutting cables. Currently, there are two types of metal cutters:

The peculiarity of side cutters is that their handles with cutting edges are always located in the same plane. Sometimes a small angle is allowed between them. Metal cutters of this type have a second name - side cutters.

Hand cutters are called end cutters, in which the cutting edges to the planes of the handles are located perpendicularly. In some ways, wire cutters are similar to scissors. However, they have serious differences. The main thing is that the cutters have cutting jaws.

This tool also differs from scissors in its shape and size. If a specialist is faced with the task of making cuts on cables of large thickness, then in this case, to effectively solve this problem, professional power cutters .

These pliers are often called bolt cutters.

Features of the cutter device

Regardless of the type of these tongs, they contain the following parts:

• sponges with cutting hands. They may vary in their shape;
• screw lock. Depending on the type of forceps, it can be single or double;
• a handle with reinforcing stops;
• leaf return spring.

A special lock is used to connect the jaws to the working parts. The lock has a reinforced design, especially in types of tools designed for cutting reinforcement.

These pliers have a leaf spring between the handles. With its help, you can easily return the jaws of the cutters to their original position or transfer them to the working position immediately after cutting the wire.

When using needle-nose pliers, the cutting edges always close very tightly throughout the entire tool. The swivel joint used in this tool has an easy and smooth operation.

This is done so that when cutting cables using pliers, the specialist does not have to exert any serious physical effort.

Types of wire cutters

When performing work, specialists use various types of forceps .

• Needle-nosed pliers with straight jaws are often used. Another name for them is blades.
• There are also tongs with oval jaws, which are divided into two types - straight and curved along the edge and along the plane.
• There are also hand cutters with semicircular jaws. Quite often this tool is direct. In certain areas, models of pliers with short or rectangular jaws are used to perform certain jobs.

Signs of quality wire cutters

There are no dents on quality cutters. There should be no burrs or other defects.

The cutting edges of these pliers should touch tightly in the middle.

Another important point is that the cutting edges should not overlap each other. The cutters may have a detachable type screw lock. However, instruments with such locks are very rare. Most often, wire cutters are offered with permanent locks.

When choosing a quality tool for home use, you should also pay attention to the lock of this tool. It can be single-hinged or double-hinged.

The tool, which is equipped with a double-hinged lock, allows the specialist to reduce the force that develops on the tool handles. When choosing, you should be aware that it would be useful to have a return leaf spring in the tool.

Thanks to it, the working edges automatically return to their original position. This happens immediately after the pressure is completed.

Manufacturers specializing in the manufacture of hand cutters think not only about the safety of this tool, but also about the ease of use. , an insulating winding is used in manufacturing . This makes it possible to use this tool not only for cutting cables, but also as an electrical installation tool when working with high voltage cables.

According to such criteria as the presence of insulating materials, wire cutters are divided into:

A characteristic feature of insulated handles is their coating, which ensures safety when performing electrical installation work. The handles of insulating tools are made entirely of insulating materials. Only the cutting edge inserts in this tool are made of metal.

Requirements for materials for making tools

When choosing this tool, attention should be paid to the material from which the pliers are made:

• was indestructible;
• had good resistance to moisture;
• was resistant to oil and gasoline;
• didn't slip.

Manufacturers of these hand tools also ensure that wire cutters designed for electrical work have a good degree of electrical insulation and provide reliable protection against electric shock within the limits corresponding to the insulating materials used in the manufacture of the tool.

How to use wire cutters?

To ensure that working with wire cutters does not require a specialist to exert great physical effort, you need to know about some rules and features of using this tool.

It is necessary to install metal cutters at an angle of 90 degrees There is no need to try too hard when performing work, as this can lead to excessive force on the cutting edges of the tool.

When performing work, special attention must be paid to the cutting process itself, as well as the movement of the tool.

If, when cutting cable wires, the tool moves in a direction that is unsafe for people, then in this case you should release the handle or simply turn the tool in a different direction.

The task of cutting massive elements, such as beams or hinges, can be performed efficiently if the materials are cut in a recess. It is often provided in the cutting part of the wire cutters.

When cutting material, it is necessary to close the cutting part . If the jaws separate, then work should be stopped, otherwise the jaws of the pliers may break. When cutting passive elements, you cannot do without an assistant. During the work, it will support the element being cut and move it to a safe distance.

Conclusion

Every home craftsman has a large number of different tools in his arsenal, which he uses in everyday life to perform various operations. Almost every home has wire cutters. You cannot do without this tool if the task is to cut cables or make cuts on metal or plastic .

If you need wire cutters, but there are none among the tools stored at home, then this problem is completely solvable. All you have to do is go to a tool store and you can easily pick up the wire cutters. You should be selective when choosing this tool. It’s worth buying quality tools that are free from defects. In this case, they will last a long time and provide convenience when cutting materials.

With prolonged use, the tool begins to become dull and will no longer be as effective in cutting materials. Therefore, it would be quite reasonable to immediately purchase a device for sharpening your wire cutters. To ensure that this tool has served for a long time, you need to know about the rules for its use.

Not all materials can be cut using wire cutters. For example, this tool is not intended for steel elements. They can be used for aluminum and copper cables.

Knowing the nuances of using this tool, you will ensure that they will serve you for a long time and will not cause big problems during operation.

Source: https://stanok.guru/stanki/metallorezhuschiy-stanok/osobennosti-vybora-ruchnyh-kusachek-po-rabote-s-metallom.html

Wire cutting tool

Scissors are an ancient tool designed for cutting various materials. Even those who are not involved in professional construction know that their design and purpose are different. There are scissors for cutting metal, which are easy and simple to use. But there are also those that require certain skills and knowledge to work with.

Hand scissors for cutting metal

They can cut thin sheets up to 1 mm thick. If the material is soft (for example, aluminum), then they will take a greater thickness: up to 2.5 mm. Structurally, this is a very simple tool, consisting of two handles and a pair of cutting blades.

To ensure that as little physical effort as possible is required when working with them, each tip has a sharpening angle of 65-80*. They are attached to each other at an angle of 7-12 *. The blade whose sharpening angle is smaller cuts more pliable material.

According to their purpose, hand scissors for cutting metal are divided into several types:

• Finger. This tool has thin, sharp blades and is designed for cutting complex shapes from sheet metal and profiles. They can be used in roofing work for cutting sheets of metal tiles and profiled metal profiles. They are also suitable for working with galvanized iron and ondulin, and additional roofing elements. During the construction of a house, this tool will help out countless times. Installation of metal profile frames for plasterboard structures without this tool will be significantly more complicated.
• For straight and curved cuts. Those for straight cutting are used if you have to work with straight lines. Curve cut scissors are designed for making curved lines and cutting holes respectively. Structurally, this is a very interesting tool with a special curved shape of knives, which, depending on their relative position, can be cut right or left.
• Power. These are “personalized” scissors. Their developer is designer Vasiliev. Therefore, professionals often call this tool by the name of its author. They can cut sheet metal products, reinforcement bars. The design of the tool is quite complex and consists of a pair of handles, a pair of knives, a hinge and a disk that can be used to cut profiles and metal bars with a cross-section of up to 8 mm.
• Lever. These are the most powerful hand shears that can work with steel up to 4 mm thick. For aluminum or other softer material, the thickness of the sheet metal can be up to 6 mm. Lever scissors are used only if there is a special machine in which one of its blades is inserted. The second movable handle is lowered onto the metal product.
• Chairs. This tool is often called a roofing tool because it perfectly cuts the profile that is used for cladding roofs. In order for the physical force to fall on one of the handles, the second, with a special bend, is fixed in the machine. These handheld metal cutting shears can easily cut sheets up to 3mm thick.

Wire cutting scissors

You can use manual power or lever metal shears to do this job. But there is also a specially designed tool for working with reinforcement bars of various thicknesses.

• Scissors for cutting barbed wire. This is a “trench”, that is, a trench tool. These scissors come in large and small. They can cut wire under voltage up to 10 thousand volts and up to 6 mm thick. When spreading their handles to the sides, the blades also diverge, and when brought together, they come together and cut metal. To perform work with small scissors, the applied force at the ends of the handles must be at least 8-12 kg, and for large ones - up to 5 kg.
• Dielectric shears for cutting wire, cables, profiles and copper or aluminum cable. They have inclined blades that allow you to grab individual strands of the cable when working with them. Their cutter head is replaceable, screwed on, and made of oil-hardened tool steel.
• Special hand scissors for cutting wire and metal rods have two turntables with knives attached to them in the form of bushings. It is possible to extend the handles if the force is not enough to cut the wire. The levers are located in the cutting plane and are made in the form of telescopic parts that are fastened together with threaded connections.

Scissors for cutting reinforcement

• For cutting reinforcement with a cross-section up to 18 mm. There is a special tool made of high-alloy steel. They can also cut asbestos-cement sheets and pipes, corrugated sheets and thin sheet metal. Structurally, this is not a complex tool: there are a pair of handles, one tip is made in the form of a serrated blade, the second ends with a special fork, between the teeth of which the blade passes during cutting. One of the handles has a bracket that supports the thumb.
• Hydraulic shears for cutting reinforcement. They have many advantages over manual ones. Firstly, it is safe to work with them, and secondly, labor productivity increases significantly. Some models are equipped with a system of interchangeable devices and can be used not only for cutting, but also for bending reinforcement. The shears consist of a cutting head and a hydraulic drive with a pump module. They work as follows: the reinforcement is placed between the movable and stationary knives, fixed with an adjustable stop and pressed against the stationary knife. Using the handle of the pump module, working pressure is created in the piston cavity of the hydraulic cylinder and the movable blade moves. In this case, a uniform counter-compression of the knives occurs along the entire cross-section at the cut site. The cut is smooth, without burrs. No additional processing is required.
• Cordless shears for cutting reinforcement. Easy to use, you can operate them with one hand. Their blades can be of 4 types of sizes, used depending on the model of the tool. These scissors can rotate 360*, allowing you to work with metal from different angles. This tool is more efficient than a hydraulic one, is lightweight, and has high strength. It can be used at high altitudes to treat power lines. Powerful hydraulic pressure ensures high quality crimping of reinforcement or wire when working with it.

Source: https://rem-serv.com/instrument-dlya-rezki-provoloki/

Side cutters. Types and device. Application and sharpening. How to choose

One of the most common cutting tools for home craftsmen are side cutters. Their principle of operation is based on the use of a lever, which increases the force applied to the handles, and the cutting jaws are used to bite off any material.

A similar principle of operation is found in conventional wire cutters, in which the cutting edges are located perpendicular to the handles, and the distance from the hinge to the object being cut is constant, so the force at the cutting point is also stable, and depends only on the squeezing force of the hand.

Design features

Side cutters differ in their design from ordinary wire cutters in that their sharp edges are located on the same plane as the handles, or at a slight angle to them. They are used for cutting wires or wires with a small diameter, as well as for small cuts in plastic, metal when performing installation and repair work, or when dismantling various equipment.

When working with side cutters, the cutting force can be adjusted by moving the object being cut closer or further from the hinge. The handles of this tool are large, and the cutting edges are much smaller. This allows you to increase the cutting force of the material due to the lever effect. If you need to cut through a thin copper conductor, then it is enough to use the tips of the sponges. To cut through a thick wire, you need to place it as close to the hinge as possible and squeeze the handles.

Standard side cutters include the main parts shown in the picture

The working parts are connected using a special lock of reinforced design. An elastic spring is located between the handles. Its task is to return the cutting edges to their original position, which is performed immediately after cutting the wire. The jaws should close tightly along the entire length of the sharp edges. The swivel joint provides a smooth and easy movement in this tool, which is required to make it easier to work with wire cutters.

Varieties

There are several types of side cutters, differing in structure, which should be taken into account when purchasing them.

Standard side cutters

These are the most popular type of side cutters that are sold at any hardware or hardware store. These cutters can cut through wires with a diameter of no more than 2.5 mm.

Reinforced side cutters

Such wire cutters are used by workers when performing plumbing or installation work. The cutting edge of this tool is made from high-strength alloy steel, which is hardened to increase strength.

High voltage

The name of these nippers indicates their applicability. They are intended for electricians performing live work. These side cutters can be used when working with voltages up to 1000 volts, thanks to the dielectric plastic handles.

Mini nippers

These miniature cutters are used by network equipment installers, programmers, radio electronics enthusiasts, and can also be used for household work. They have small dimensions, which allows them to be used in hard-to-reach places.

Side cutters can have different designs and any size, and can also differ in the shape of their sharp edges. The operating feature of the tool depends on this. If the jaws of the nippers are thin and long, then they are best used for biting off thin conductors used in radio-electronic devices. They are also suitable for hard to reach places.

There are models of side cutters that have a recess on the working jaws for easy removal of insulation from wires.

How to use side cutters

There is a misconception that wire cutters are a simple tool and there is no difficulty in using them. However, every job has certain requirements and rules. Let's consider the advice of specialists and manufacturers.

• Side cutters must be positioned at right angles to the wire being cut.
• It is not recommended to apply excessive force to the handles. The nippers must be handled carefully so that there is no unnecessary force on the jaws.
• When working with such a tool, it is necessary to monitor the cutting process and the movement of the tool. If there are people nearby, it is necessary to point the tool away from them so as not to accidentally cause injury.
• If you need to cut through a thick wire, then it is advisable to perform such work in a special recess of the wire cutters located in the cutting part of the tool.
• When biting, the cutting edges should close completely. If at the end of the stroke the jaws begin to move apart, you should stop working, otherwise the cutting part of the tool may break.
• When working with powerful large wire cutters, it is advisable to use a second person to support the parts being cut and promptly remove them to a safe place. Such situations usually arise in production. In everyday life they rarely work with an assistant.

How to choose side cutters

The quality and productivity of the work performed largely depends on the quality of the purchased tool. Therefore, it is necessary, first of all, to select side cutters based on their appearance. Notches and dents on the instrument indicate low quality workmanship.

The cutting parts of the pliers must fit tightly along the entire working length. The edges should not diverge to the sides when closing. Most often, locks on wire cutters are made detachable, but there are also one-piece designs. This does not affect the quality of work.

When choosing side cutters, you should keep in mind that their design can be double-hinged or single-hinged.

It is more convenient to work with a tool with two hinges, since the force required to apply to the handles will require little. If the tool is equipped with a return spring, the handles will quickly return to their original position immediately after cutting the wire.

If you are going to work with side cutters under voltage, you should purchase a special high-voltage version.

Sharpening Tips

This tool is often used at home. Over time, the cutting edges of the nippers become dull, and working with them becomes inconvenient. You can sharpen the cutting part yourself.

If you have emery on the farm, sharpening the nippers will not be difficult. This does not require a large sharpening machine power. Sharpening must be done carefully, without exerting much effort, and following safety rules.

The tool should be brought to the sandpaper with the back side. If the cutting edges are curved, then when sharpening you should slowly turn the tool at a small angle to carefully sharpen all the places between the blades.

If the sharpening area shines, then everything went well.

Sharpening can be done even with a simple whetstone, but it will take much more time. It is better to use the bar only when absolutely necessary.

To keep the nippers from becoming dull for a long time, you need to use them correctly, knowing that they are not intended for biting off steel products. Their main purpose is to cut through copper and aluminum wires. In rare cases, they are used to cut steel insulation. Although you can use special scissors for this.

Related topics:

Source: https://tehpribory.ru/glavnaia/instrumenty/bokorezy.html

How to sharpen side cutters correctly

Side cutters are an indispensable tool for those involved in electronics and chip repair, that is, in areas where an even cut is of great importance. This tool is capable of cutting wire of almost any diameter with minimal effort. But over time, the cutting surface of the needle-nose pliers loses its ability, therefore, the question arises of how to sharpen the side cutters.

Reasons for sharpening wire cutters

There are several reasons to start sharpening:

• development of sponges as a result of prolonged use;
• damage to the cutting surface due to the use of side cutters to cut thick wire or heavy-duty cable.

As a result of one of the actions, the edges of the needle-nose pliers do not fit tightly together. One or more gaps form between them, which prevents this tool from fully performing its functions. As a result, the edge of the cut turns out to be uneven or the wire is not cut to the end, and then it must be removed manually. This is not always convenient, since the cutting planes may be located in places that are difficult to reach.

In addition, if the cutting edges overlap each other as a result of the side cutters closing, this indicates that the screw is loosely clamped and a large backlash is formed. The screw is tightened with a screwdriver, thereby solving this problem.

Sharpening needle nose pliers begins by preparing the tools:

• vice;
• 2 small pieces of cardboard;
• diamond needle file with fine notch;
• calipers;
• center punch;
• small hammer;
• screwdriver;
• an anvil or other flat metal surface.

It is necessary to sharpen side cutters with a diamond needle file, which has the necessary characteristics for this. Without such spraying, the file cannot produce the required sharpening, in addition, the sharpening process can take a long time.

Vernier calipers are the standard for smooth intersecting surfaces. In this regard, the main requirement for it is strict contact of two planes without unnecessary gaps and gaps.

Immediately before starting to sharpen the needle-nose pliers, it is necessary to remove the play from the tool. For this purpose, unscrew the screws with a screwdriver and place them on an anvil or any other metal surface that will not be damaged during further work.

A punch is inserted into the hole and they begin to hit it with a hammer. In this case, the impacts should not be strong, but only gradually reduce the backlash. If you hit the center punch hard with a hammer, you can damage the side cutters and permanently disable them due to jamming.

After each blow, you should check the play and continue working until it disappears completely.

It is impossible to sharpen wire cutters efficiently while hanging. This is due to the fact that it is impossible to keep the side cutters and the file in the required planes in relation to each other.

Both tools can walk, so the edge will not be sharpened, but will eventually take on the shape of a semicircle. To remove at least 1 of the factors that destabilize the work, use a vice.

Using them, you can securely secure the nippers, which will significantly improve the quality and speed of sharpening.

Practical recommendations

Before clamping the side cutters in a vice, you need to get rid of the screw that holds the 2 parts of the tool together.

Then cut out 2 squares from cardboard or any other thick paper, which are the same size as the wire cutters. This is necessary in order to protect them from scratches while doing work. Spacers must be placed on both sides of the side cutters. Once the vice screw has securely fixed the tool, you can begin sharpening.

You can try using an ordinary needle file with fine notches. But the procedure will take a long time, and the cutting edge will not have the necessary sharpness. Therefore, high-quality sharpening is carried out using a diamond-coated needle file.

If it is difficult to determine by eye the place where sharpening is required, then the smooth edge of a caliper, which is a standard, is applied to the cutting surface. After the gap or the place of metal production on the cutters is determined, sharpening begins. To do this, use a file to remove excess metal on the side cutter jaw, thereby leveling its surface.

If the gaps between the edges of the pliers and the caliper were insignificant, then it is necessary to check the jaws of the tool being sharpened quite often, for example, after 3-4 passes of the needle file.

Sharpening continues on both sides of the cutting edges until there are no gaps between the reference surface and the nippers. When the required result is achieved, the tool is released from the vice. Having removed all the pads, tighten the screw. Close the side cutters, checking how well the sharpening is done.

Source: https://tools.adstores.ru/article/kak-pravilno-zatochit-bokorezy