what are pliers tool for?

Pliers (tool)

Pliers
are a tool in the form of lever pliers, usually with relatively long handles connected at a hinge, and short jaws that close over a short distance with flat or pointed surfaces.
There are carpenter's pliers
, which are used for pulling out driven nails and similar purposes,
blacksmith's pliers
for holding hot metal, and
electrical pliers
. Tools that are similar in design but differ in the shape of their working surfaces include wire cutters and pliers.

Clamp meter

An electrical clamp is a device for measuring current and electrical voltage in high-current and high-voltage lines without electrical contact with current-carrying wires. The head of an electrical clamp is a detachable core made of ferromagnetic material with an inductor located on it. The device is equipped with insulating handles and a spring mechanism, which makes it look like pliers. During measurements, the current-carrying wire is covered by the core and, together with the inductance coil, forms a measuring transformer: the primary winding is the current-carrying wire, and the secondary winding is the inductor coil, to which an AC pointer electrical measuring instrument is connected.

How to measure current using a transformer

When a conductor is passed through the terminals of the device, current passes through these terminals, acting as the iron core of a power transformer. Next, the current flows into the secondary winding, which is connected through the meter input shunt. Due to the ratio of the number of secondary windings to the number of primary windings wound around the core, the current entering the input is much less. Typically, the primary winding consists of one conductor, around which the jaws are clamped.

If the secondary winding has, for example, 1000 turns, then the current in the secondary winding will be 1000 times less than that flowing through the primary winding. Thus, 1 ampere in the conductor being measured will produce only 1 milliampere at the instrument input. By increasing the number of turns in the secondary winding, powerful currents can be easily measured.

How to measure direct current, because it flows through conductors with a fixed polarity? Here the magnetic field around the conductor does not change, and it is impossible to record the corresponding readings in the usual way. Therefore, the clamps around such a conductor are closed with some gap (see Figure 2).

Safety precautions when working

Interaction with any devices that come into contact with electricity requires compliance with certain safety measures. The mites in question are no exception. During active actions carried out by them, it is prohibited:

when connecting them to live elements, touch the open connectors;
when working under voltage, measure resistance;
switch ranges when the conductor is in the instrument;
exceed the maximum overload capacity of the tool for a certain range.

With professional tools in electrical installations with voltages above 1000 V, work is carried out by 2 workers: 1 with group III and 1 with group IV.

Pliers are a universal tool: types and their features

The pliers tool is a universal device used to perform various technological operations. On the modern market, pliers are presented in a fairly wide range, so it is important to understand how to choose the right tool, focusing on its technical characteristics and functionality.

Pliers are hand-held pliers with relatively long handles and short jaws, the shape of which determines the purpose of the tool.

Design

In current clamp meters, two main working units can be specified:

Design of pliers

The grips contain the windings of the transformer.
The handle contains an ammeter or other measuring device.

An electric current is induced in the transformer windings, the characteristics of which are determined by a built-in measuring device. It must be taken into account that the induced current has a different value compared to the original one. To obtain an accurate value, a recalculation is required.

Purpose and principles of classification

Pliers are a universal-purpose tool that can be used to perform the following technological operations:

Pliers can be successfully used to work with old knocked-down nuts - they do not slip off the edges due to the self-locking inherent in their design

Taking into account the fact that pliers are used to manipulate various parts, this tool is produced in various designs. Pliers of various designs are used to perform electrical installation and plumbing work; they are used in plumbing, construction and many other areas. So, depending on the design and main purpose, they distinguish:

Plumbing pliers are used to work with round, square or hexagonal profile parts

Pliers (or, in other words, pliers, pliers) must be carefully selected to solve specific problems. The simplest in terms of design are plumbing pliers, which at the same time are distinguished by their wide versatility. These types of tools are very similar to pliers in both design and functionality and are used successfully for grasping and holding objects of various shapes and sizes, including pipes. That is why plumbing pliers can also be used as a pipe wrench or an adjustable wrench.

Using pliers to bend metal

A separate category consists of automatic tools, which are used to strip the insulation of electrical cables of various purposes and diameters. Devices of this type can also perform crimping or crimping of cable lugs of various diameters. Depending on the diameter of the electrical cables to be crimped, such pliers are divided into several categories:

Crimping pliers can be designed for crimping certain diameters of sleeves or have replaceable dies with different profiles

Crimping pliers can be used both for crimping cable lugs and for stripping wires of insulation. Various models of tools in this category are also designed to work with wires of different diameters.

Welding pliers, classified as clamping type tools, are used to fix and hold parts when performing welding and plumbing work. Even from the photos of such instruments it is clearly visible that their design has certain features. The main difference between them is the design of the clamping elements: they are C-shaped. Due to this, less stress is placed on the handles of the welding pliers when in use.

Clamping pliers for welding allow you to fix flat and shaped workpieces, as well as irregularly shaped parts

Carpenter's pliers are used for removing nails or similar operations.

In their design, end carpentry (or metalworking) pliers resemble a nail puller. They, as a rule, are distinguished by significant dimensions, which allows them to be used for removing not only very large nails, but also more impressively sized fasteners.

Tip material

Another relevant point in choosing a tip is the material of manufacture. When purchasing, make sure that they are selling you copper or tinned tips. To do this, it is enough to first purchase one tip and file it with something foreign.

With copper material, especially if high-quality copper is used, the cut will be reddish in color. If ordinary copper alloys are used, which is most often the case, then the cut will be a pale yellowish color.

When exposed to air, copper may darken and lose contact quality. Copper tinning is a long-known method that makes the contact durable and reliable.

Advantages of crimping wires with lugs

the crimped end of the wire is considered airtight
the ferrule sleeve prevents individual wires from being damaged or excluded from contact
tinned tip surface – reliable protection from environmental influences

GOST

GOST has not been developed for the crimpers themselves, but literally all types of tips with which this tool works are standardized.

This means that the crimper dies are also manufactured to the tip standards.

So the following GOSTs are considered the most popular:

For cable lugs this is GOST 23981-80 and 9581-80;
For cable sleeves these are GOST 23469.0-81, 23469.2-79 and 23469.3-79;
For cable pin lugs these are GOST 23598-79 and 22002.5-76;
GOST 9688-82 has been developed for cable ring lugs.

Design features of adjustable pliers

Since adjustable pliers are the most versatile tool, it is worth getting to know their design features in more detail. Based on the type of mechanism used, adjustable pliers are divided into two categories of tools.

The adjustable mechanism can consist of an axis fixed to the movable jaw of the tool and a groove on a stationary clamping element, which is a series of aligned circles. On the axis, so that it can be moved along the groove and thereby adjust the degree of opening of the jaws, a sector is specially cut out. This adjustable mechanism works as follows: the axis for moving along the groove is rotated so that its bevel is parallel to the side of the cutout. Having positioned the axis in this way, the adjustable pliers are set to the required amount of jaw opening.

Pliers with grooves on the fixed part

More common are adjustable pliers, the jaw opening mechanism of which is made according to the so-called American system. On the fixed jaw of such pliers there is a number of circular grooves along which the “tide”, made on the movable handle of the tool, moves.

Circular groove pliers

To adjust the degree of opening of the pliers, you must perform the following steps:

Adjustable pliers equipped with a mechanism of the second type are considered more reliable and easier to use.

Many experts, when comparing adjustable plumbing pliers with conventional adjustable wrenches, emphasize that the former are easier to use and the required degree of opening of their working jaws is carried out more quickly. As a rule, adjustable pliers, equipped with adjustable mechanisms of both the first and second types, have about seven fixed positions of the clamping jaws.

Mid-price devices

Teng Tools

The product is very popular among builders. The maximum gap is 65 mm, the length of the handle is 23.5 cm. A quality product at an affordable price. I don’t mind paying 742 rubles for it. The geometry is quite accurate, there is no discrepancy between adjacent surfaces. Mechanical processing is used to produce circular guide grooves. Moving and changing the size of the pharynx occurs without much effort. There are small and large notches on the sponges. The swivel joint is traditional. No play was detected during testing.

The handles are a one-component shell, pleasant to the touch and do not slip. They fit comfortably in the hand, making the process comfortable and quick. The product is considered functional.

adjustable pliers Teng Tools

Advantages:

durability;
reliability;
comfort;
versatility;
practicality;
build quality;
anti-slip coating;
withstands strength tests;
used for repairing truck tires.

Flaws:

not identified.

Kamasa Tools

The manufacturer controls product quality at all stages of production, so only reliable and durable tools are put on sale. Reviews about the product are only positive. The scope of application is wide. The geometry of the device is ideal, no inconsistencies have been identified. The guide grooves are precisely and regularly shaped and machined. Movement occurs simply and effortlessly. Sponges with two notches. The connection is good and reliable, no play was detected. The handle is excellent, soft, rubberized, quite wide, 24 cm long.

The average price is 836 rubles.

adjustable pliers Kamasa Tools

Advantages:

quality;
practicality;
versatility;
quality factor;
long service life;
no backlash;
positive reviews;
fits comfortably in the palm of your hand;
does not slip thanks to a special coating;
excellent performance.

Flaws:

none.

Dexter Pro, 250 mm

The universal adjustable key is manufactured in the Celestial Empire. Used to grip structures of different sizes and shapes. Thanks to the notches, the parts are clamped securely and firmly. The mechanism provides 10 positions. The mouth opens to a maximum distance of 50 mm. Weighs 374 g, the handle is made of plastic, the clamping depth is 25 cm. Chrome vanadium steel is used in manufacturing. Belongs to the type of curved pliers with a smooth cut. Easily and simply cuts steel pipes. Able to loosen bolts, tighten them, hold the pipe.

Sold in convenient cardboard packaging at a price of 900 rubles per piece.

adjustable pliers Dexter Pro, 250 mm

Advantages:

reliability;
ease of use;
practicality;
versatility;
durability;
quality of materials used;
strength is worthy of respect;
withstands significant loads;
price-quality ratio.

Flaws:

not installed.

RemoColor, 250 mm

The main feature is the reinforced design. Widely used for construction and installation work. In production, high-quality material is used - chrome vanadium steel. Two-component type handles make it possible to use them effortlessly and for a fairly long time. Designed to work with metal and plastic. Parameters: 102*312*93 mm. There is additional equipment in the form of a cover. Model weight – 0.458 g.

The product is sold at a price of 735 rubles per unit.

adjustable pliers RemoColor, 250 mm

Advantages:

comfortable;
practical;
universal;
solid;
build quality;
reliable;
long service life;
anti-slip coating;
light weight;
can be purchased at any store or placed an order online on the manufacturer’s website.

Flaws:

not identified.

Recommendations for choosing the right tool

In order for pliers or any other tool for a similar purpose to be effective in use, you should be very careful when choosing such devices. The first thing you need to decide on when choosing pliers, pliers or pliers is the technical tasks for which such tools are needed.

One of the most important parameters of the instruments under consideration is the material from which they are made.

The main criteria when choosing a tool: length, grip size and workmanship

To ensure high strength and, accordingly, reliability and durability, high-quality clamping devices are made from tool steel. At the same time, the working jaws of such devices, which experience the greatest mechanical loads during use, are additionally subjected to hardening. To protect the metal surface of the tool from the formation and development of corrosion, a special protective composition is used.

For ease of use, the handles of high-quality models of pliers and pliers are coated with a rubber or polymer compound. This coating not only prevents the tool from slipping out of the user's hands, but also protects against electric shock.

Pliers with anti-slip handles

Adjustable dielectric pliers

Tool size is another important parameter that those who purchase pliers should pay attention to. The characteristics of the parts and workpieces for which the tool will be used should be taken into account. So, if pliers are needed for cables of small diameter, it is better to choose more compact models of such devices, and for manipulating plumbing pipes you should purchase larger clamping devices.

When choosing clamping tools, you should also pay attention to the brand under which they are manufactured. It is worth giving preference to products from reputable manufacturers whose reputation is beyond doubt.

Meanwhile, products manufactured by well-known companies can be quite expensive. That is why, in order not to overpay for branded products, you can choose tools based not on the popularity of the brand, but on user reviews, for which it is enough to visit thematic Internet forums.

Source

Inexpensive clamps

Stanley

They have guide grooves. Surfaces are smooth. The circular grooves have been machined, but there are minor backlashes. The rear moving part is equipped with a stop. There are two notches: with small (1 mm) and large (2 mm) pitch. Traditional swivel joint. The handles are three-dimensional, two-component. There is a rubberized insert on a solid base.

The average price is 390 rubles.

Stanley adjustable pliers

Advantages:

practicality;
versatility;
handle length – 19 cm.
affordable price.

Flaws:

the quality of surface treatment is poor;
presence of backlash;
reliability is satisfactory;
Excessive pressure causes the teeth to become crushed.

Jonnesway

Adjustable clamping tool with a maximum jaw size of 34 mm. External surface with smooth polished finish. The inside is grainy and rough. Sponges with fine and large notches. Circular guides are machined. The connection is of high quality; no play appeared during testing. The handles are soft, single-component, a little slippery, but comfortable to use. They are not afraid of contact with aggressive compounds.

The product can be purchased for 330 rubles.

Jonnesway adjustable pliers

Advantages:

smooth edges and edges;
high-quality geometry;
comfort;
versatility;
no backlash appears;
easy to clean;
are not afraid of aggressive environments;
durability;
quality of materials used;
insignificant cost.

Flaws:

low hardness;
During operation, the teeth may become jammed.

Hans

The manufacturer is responsible for the quality of manufactured products. Moving is easy and precise. The coating is dark, the sides are polished. The circular guides look impressive; there are slight bevels on the contact edges to make the grip more reliable. Tests have shown that the hinge joint does not come loose. Metal handles are equipped with rubberized inserts.

The price of the product is 294 rubles.

adjustable pliers Hans

Advantages:

comfortable;
practical;
universal;
comfortable;
inexpensive.

Flaws:

glide even in dry palms;
hardness index is low;
is considered a partially functional product.

Stork

Tool with guide grooves, jaw size – 45 mm, handle 19.5 mm. The sides are polished, the coating is stable and uniform. Two types of notches were made: large and small. The connection looks high quality at first glance, however, during testing, significant play appears. All you have to do is tighten it yourself, and the defect is eliminated. The key is made from chrome vanadium steel. The handles are two-component. The plastic base has a soft rubberized insert. A poor-quality connection between the handle and the metal was revealed: the glassy glue does not withstand the handle, so the device breaks with significant force.

The average cost is 238 rubles.

adjustable pliers Stork

Advantages:

comfortable;
practical;
universal;
inexpensive.

Flaws:

strength is insignificant;
short-lived;
The stops and teeth may become crushed.

Arsenal

Belongs to the category of high-quality and reliable designs. The outer surface of the hinge is smooth, the inner surface is granular. The coating is not of very high quality, as abrasions form with little use. The circular guides are profiled correctly. There are minor geometric discrepancies, which may cause the device to jam. Jaws with one notch with a pitch of 2.5 mm. No depression is provided.

Retailers offer products at a price of 211 rubles per unit.

Arsenal adjustable pliers

Advantages:

price-quality ratio;
practicality;
ease of use;
reliable connection;
ideal hardness at a low price;
normal performance.

Flaws:

sometimes sticks;
strength is not enough;
service life is short.

Pliers (tool)

See what “Pliers (tool)” are in other dictionaries:

Pliers (tool) - This term has other meanings, see Pliers. Carpenter's pliers. Pliers are a tool in the form of lever pliers, usually with relatively long handles connected at a hinge, and short jaws that close over a short distance... ... Wikipedia

Pliers tool - see Blacksmithing... Encyclopedic Dictionary F.A. Brockhaus and I.A. Efron

Pliers, tools - see Blacksmithing... Encyclopedic Dictionary F.A. Brockhaus and I.A. Efron

Pliers are a tool for pulling out nails. In English: Vice See also: Carpentry tools Financial Dictionary Finam ... Financial Dictionary

Source

Expensive models

Knipex Cobra KN – 870225, 250 mm

Pliers top the ranking of quality products. It will serve faithfully for many years, making the work easy and precise. The handle is made of high quality plastic and significant strength. The jaws are curved and made of steel. They are of the flat corrugated type. They have a maximum grip of 50 mm. Handle length – 25 cm, structure weight – 376 g.

Sold at a price of 735 rubles per piece.

adjustable pliers Knipex Cobra KN – 870225, 250 mm

Advantages:

ease of use;
quality of the material used;
versatility;
withstands any load;
accuracy of work;
structural elements are clearly combined with each other;
practicality;
long service life.

Flaws:

none.

KVT Profi 81768, 250 mm

The brand is Russian, but the country of origin is Taiwan. A good purchase if you have to work on capturing polyhedra, flat and round structures. It is considered a professional instrument. Enjoys enormous popularity among masters of their craft. Handles are multi-component, two-color. Equipped with stops that prevent slipping in the palms. The jaws are made of chrome vanadium steel. Maximum grip – 50 mm, jaw width – 50 mm, product length – 25 cm.

In specialized stores, the product can be purchased at a price of 2,110 rubles per piece.

adjustable pliers KVT Profi 81768, 250 mm

Advantages:

the teeth have increased hardness;
multi-component, two-color handles;
surface treatment – bluing;
the opening range of the pliers is significant;
presence of self-fixing on nuts and pipes;
precise fixation of the part and the ability to quickly and accurately multi-position adjustment of the gripping mechanism;
with push-button lock;
random rearrangement of positions is impossible due to the design features of the hinge;
does not require serious effort during operation;
even a beginner can handle it;
high-quality material;
accuracy and strength of design;
durability;
versatility.

Flaws:

not installed.

Bahco with plastic handles, 250 mm

High quality clamps with plastic yellow-orange handles. The jaws are curved, flat, grooved. Made from high quality alloy steel. There is an anti-slip coating on the handle. Capable of producing a grip of 64 mm. Product weight – 354 grams. The kit does not include a cover, so you will have to purchase it additionally.

The average price is 1,700 rubles.

Bahco adjustable pliers with plastic handles, 250 mm

Advantages:

ease of use;
no special knowledge required;
universal;
withstands significant loads;
excellent fit of structural elements;
smooth ride;
significant capture;
optimal dimensions;
with lock;
price-quality ratio;
long service life;
reliability.

Flaws:

none.

Kamasa Tools Speedy

An adjustable design with a toothed rack and a reciprocal pawl. It is very popular due to the quality of the build and the durability of the material used. Craftsmen are primarily interested in its excellent power characteristics and design features. The presence of a spring-loaded pawl makes it easy to separate the ticks. It is enough to remove the handle from the engagement with the pawl and move it lower.

The jaws are brought together by simply moving the handle. The presence of a ratcheting mechanism allows you to perform actions easily and naturally. There is no need to select the key position by eye. You just need to make sure that the handle is brought into contact with the fastener. There are two notches on the sponge: large and small. The shells of the dousing handles are soft and a little slippery. Contacts with metal efficiently. The shells do not fall off during operation.

The average price of products is 1055 rubles.

adjustable pliers Kamasa Tools Speedy

Advantages:

quality;
quality factor;
ease of operation;
durability;
versatility;
excellent hardness;
excellent performance.

Flaws:

not installed.

Knipex KN – 8603180, red

An adjustable wrench is an indispensable assistant for installers and mechanics. Belongs to the category of professional equipment. Narrow gripping planes are able to reach hard-to-reach places. Smooth jaws are designed for working with chrome-plated materials. The device is adjustable and copes well with screw connections. High-quality grips, fixes and crimps flexible parts. Can be used to rotate pipes. The design fits tightly to the surface, allowing it to work with high-quality finishes without damaging them. Simple push-button adjustment. One click is enough.

The hinge screw is securely fixed, which completely eliminates its spontaneous reinstallation. The presence of a gap between the gripping planes makes it possible to quickly tighten and unscrew screw connections, which is reminiscent of manipulating with a ratchet wrench. The quality of the material is impressive. In the manufacture of parts, chrome vanadium electric steel is used, which has been forged and hardened in oil. Nickel plated. Product weight – 320 g. Covers are made of plastic and are included in the kit.

The product is sold at a price of 4,775 rubles.

adjustable pliers Knipex KN – 8603180, red

Advantages:

professional device;
quality;
versatility;
reliability;
durability;
practicality.

Flaws:

the price is biting.

Knipex KN – 8605250, blue, red

The product is manufactured under the Knipex brand. Features German quality. A faithful companion for professional installers and mechanics. Able to replace the entire set of wrenches, both inch and metric. Designed to work with chrome surfaces. Works with screw connections. Participates in capturing, fixing and crimping flexible elements. When manipulating the device, mechanical damage to the surface is impossible.

Adjustment is easy and simple. It only takes one button to press. Unintentional adjustment of the key size is completely eliminated due to the excellent fixation of the hinge screw. Able to quickly tighten and unscrew screws. The parts are made of high quality chrome vanadium electric steel. The set includes two-component covers.

The average cost of production is 7264 rubles.

adjustable pliers Knipex KN – 8605250, blue, red

Advantages:

German quality;
reliability;
indestructible;
comfortable to use;
universal;
Available in two colors: blue and red;
professional design;
one year warranty;
light weight;
smooth lips;
comfortable grip;
ideal replacement for a set of keys;
fit comfortably in the palm of your hand;
don't slip out.

Flaws:

overpriced.

Knipex KN – 8601250, red, 250 mm

Professional adjustable clamps are very popular among craftsmen. They are a replacement for a complete set of wrenches. Installs fittings carefully, without causing mechanical damage to them. It fits tightly to any surface. Adjustable by simply pressing a button. There is a scale for adjusting the jaw solution according to the dimensions of the part. Product weight – 600 g. The German manufacturer provides a 1-year warranty.

The average price is 5766 rubles.

adjustable pliers Knipex KN – 8601250, red, 250 mm

Advantages:

held securely in hands;
no backlash;
high quality;
reliability;
practicality;
quality factor;
an excellent gift for real men;
one year warranty;
versatility;
long service life.

Flaws:

expensive purchase.

Gross 15727, 250 mm

The German company produces adjustable clamping devices with poured handles and a push-button mechanism. Distinctive features: wear resistance and high strength. The tool is designed for rotating and fixing pipes. An indispensable assistant in plumbing and installation work. Steel working jaws hold the elements tightly and neatly. There is a groove for catching and holding nails and wire. The rubber-coated handles fit well in the palm of your hand and do not slip or fall out. High-quality steel is used in the manufacture of pliers. Product weight is only 330 grams. Hanging card included.

You can purchase the device in specialized stores at a price of 2,149 rubles.

adjustable pliers Gross 15727, 250 mm

Advantages:

quality;
versatility;
ease of use;
can be used for fittings;
reliability;
durability;
practicality;
compactness.

Flaws:

none.

Required tool: pliers

Pliers are a tool for metalworking, carpentry and other industries, consisting of two ends with handles that are crossed and move apart on a hinge. This tool is used for pulling out nails, wrapping wire, etc. They are not often used in the household, but you can’t live without them!

The pliers have rather long handles, the length being due to the creation of greater mechanical leverage. Ticks have short sponges, usually pointed at the ends.

Carpenter's pliers are intended mainly for pulling nails out of wooden surfaces, breaking metal strips, and other rough work.

Blacksmith pliers are used, accordingly, in blacksmithing; they hold hot metal workpieces and other objects that are difficult to access due to the peculiarities of blacksmithing. And forges have now become exotic, including blacksmith’s tongs.

There are also Clamp Meters. This is no longer a turning or carpentry tool; it is used to measure voltage and current in high-voltage networks. Moreover, these clamps are designed in such a way that there is no need to touch bare conductors, and the operating principle is based on electromagnetic induction. The entire structure consists of ferromagnetic materials and inductors located on these materials.

Pliers - tool price

Current clamps are undoubtedly a useful tool in every home. Not to mention professional electricians.

But the cost of current clamps corresponds to the level of declared advantages. In Ukraine it is about 1500-3000 hryvnia (This is 180-360 USD)

With the help of crimping pliers and stripping pliers, any work with electrical wires will become much easier and more effective. Moreover, such work has to be done even in an apartment, not to mention a private village house. Depending on the functionality, such a tool costs from 150 to 600 UAH. (18-76 USD)

If you need banal pliers for pulling out nails, and you can’t do without them in a private house, they will cost you 70-80 UAH, about 10 USD

Clamps are used for various jobs; there are also special pliers for removing and securing clamps. Price ranges from 150-620 UAH (19-75 USD), depending on the set of functions and manufacturer.

It is also very difficult to care for your car without ticks. Many people prefer to use the services of a service station, but, for example, in the outback, in remote places, sometimes you have to delve into the intricacies of the machine yourself, and it’s much cheaper, and most importantly, it’s definitely done without cheating.

With pliers, the process of removing piston rings, working with the engine (special pliers for clamping pipelines), balancing, and installing drum brake springs become much more efficient. The asking price is from 180 UAH and above. (22 USD)

And although, as practice has shown, an old instrument is better than two new ones, sometimes you still have to buy new ones - and the prices are impressive, the functionality pleases, and there is plenty to choose from.

Source

Historical perspective

Initially, as a tool, pliers were intended to remove hot metal blanks and crucibles of molten metal from forges.
They were also used by blacksmiths to hold various workpieces during forging. Archaeologists prove that the prototype of pliers - tongs, which had a rod-axis - was invented back in the Neolithic era. Back then this instrument was made from burnt wood. The first depiction of hand pliers tools dates back to the 6th-5th centuries BC. In the Bronze Age, blacksmiths used primitive pliers as clamps. They are currently found in the burials of blacksmiths as burial goods, indicating that the deceased had a special and fairly high social status.

Since ancient times, pliers have been two castor beans connected by a rivet that acts as an axis. This tool has been evidence of specialized blacksmithing skills since ancient times. Together with the anvil and hammer, pliers were an attribute of numerous ancient Greek and Roman blacksmith gods and lords of thunder (Thor, Vulcan, Hephaestus, etc.).

Much later, pliers began to be used in construction work, in plumbing activities, widely used in electrical work, etc. Depending on the specialization and principle of the device, various pliers are called side cutters, pliers, wire cutters, pliers, etc.

Probe - also known as an indicator screwdriver

This tool, despite its simplicity, has many capabilities and is capable of solving most everyday problems - you just need to choose the right model and use it correctly.

There are several types of probes, differing markedly in functionality:

1. Non-powered indicator screwdrivers with neon light or LCD indicator. This is the simplest and most inexpensive type of indicator screwdrivers, but their functionality is limited.

Using such a probe you can only determine the phase wire. To do this, touch the conductor or terminal being tested with the tip, pressing your finger against the contact on the handle.

If there is 220 V on the conductor, the light will light up. But the probe cannot do anything else without power - neither find the neutral wire, nor check its integrity, nor even determine the presence of voltage below 60-70 V.

2. Indicator screwdrivers with their own battery power and field-effect transistor circuit. Outwardly, they may be very similar to those discussed earlier, but distinguishing them is quite simple: firstly, in models with a transparent case, button batteries are visible inside.

Secondly, if you touch the tip and the contact on the body at the same time, the indicator will light up.

Thirdly, some models are equipped with a switch, which also indicates the presence of autonomous power supply.

This is a more functional tool with which you can perform many tasks:

3. Highly sensitive, non-contact probes that do not require contact with a wire to determine phase or ground.

They are characterized by maximum safety, since access to exposed wires is not required to work with them. Also, using non-contact probes, you can usually search for hidden wiring, and not necessarily under voltage - they can work as a metal detector.

At the same time, when working with electrical equipment or testing multi-core cables, it can be inconvenient to use such probes, since it is difficult to separate the signal of the desired wire from the interference generated by other closely located conductors.

Instead of an epilogue

An analysis of the market for the devices in question has shown that it is quite extensive and finding the necessary tool is not difficult. This applies to absolutely all price segments. However, the Russian manufacturer is actively represented only in the middle and budget segment, but the quality of its products fully corresponds to the price it asks for. At the same time, premium class tools are always very expensive and can differ from the budget class by 3-4 orders of magnitude. The cost of an expensive device is more than compensated by its quality and there are simply no complaints about it in 99.9% of cases. Thus, it is possible to conclude that clamping pliers are completely accessible to Russian consumers.

Multimeter

If the probe allows you to determine only qualitative indicators (there is voltage/no voltage, there is contact/no contact), then with a multimeter you can find out the numerical values of these characteristics. Therefore, multimeters are often used by electronics engineers, but they can also be useful in households.

You can use a multimeter to measure the exact voltage value in the outlet. To do this, you need to set it to the appropriate measurement mode (alternating voltage - ACV, limit not less than 300 V), connect the probes correctly and insert both probes into the socket. Typically, one probe is connected to the common connector, the second to the AC voltage connector.

According to GOST, the voltage in the outlet should be within 210-250 V. If the voltage in your outlet is significantly outside the specified limits, this is a reason to call the power supply organization. Both low and high voltage are harmful to household appliances.

Do not try to check the current strength in the socket (in mode A) with a multimeter - at best, the multimeter's fuse will burn out, at worst, the wiring will melt and ignite, and the device will fail.

A multimeter can help in determining the health of the power supply of a laptop or other gadget with a round power connector. To do this, you need to look at the output voltage on the power supply case and set the corresponding DC voltage measurement limit (DCV) on the multimeter. 20V is usually sufficient, but if the power supply produces, for example, 36V, the limit should be higher than this value. After this, you should turn on the power supply and touch the connector contacts with the probes. Typically, one of the contacts is located inside the connector cylinder in the form of a pin or metal tube, and the second is located outside.

You don’t have to pay attention to the polarity; if you confuse the “minus” with the “plus”, nothing bad will happen, the values will simply be displayed on the screen with a “–” sign. If after this the screen remains at 0, the value is lower than that indicated on the power supply case, or it constantly changes, the power supply is faulty and requires replacement.

In testing mode, it is convenient to use a multimeter to determine the integrity of wires and look for the ends of one wire in multi-core cables. To do this, you need to set the dialing mode and touch the probes to different ends of the wire. Conveniently, in most multimeters, a successful dialing is accompanied by a sound signal, that is, you do not need to look at the device during operation.

You can check the batteries with a multimeter. The easiest and safest way to check the voltage is in the DC voltage measurement mode with a limit of 2-20 V (depending on the nominal voltage of the battery). For a fully charged “finger” or “pinky” battery, the voltage should be in the range of 1.4-1.6 V. Slightly discharged elements can give a voltage of 1.2-1.4 V, and completely discharged ones - 1.1 V or less .

However, this method is not highly reliable - you may well come across batteries that give 1.4 V, but practically do not retain a charge. A more reliable way is to measure the short circuit current. You need to switch the multimeter to the DC current measurement mode at the maximum limit (10-20 A, you may need to move the probe to another socket on the multimeter) and briefly touch the battery poles with the probes. You need to touch until the maximum value on the display is reached, but in any case, no longer than 1.5-2 seconds. It is recommended to check only batteries in this way; battery cells may have a high short-circuit current, which will lead to the fuse in the multimeter burning out and damage to the battery itself.

Also, with a multimeter you can more accurately determine the serviceability of heating elements of boilers, kettles, washing machines and other equipment than when using a probe. First you need to turn off the power to the electrical appliance and remove its cover to gain access to the heating element. It is not worth checking the integrity of the heating element through the power plug - in a de-energized state, the power circuit can be broken by the electronics of the device, and no check will be possible. Next, you should disconnect the wires suitable for the terminals of the heating element so that other elements of the device do not distort the measurement results. Next you should check:

The windings of electric motors are checked using the same principle. Is that the spread of resistance of serviceable windings is higher - for low-power electric motors it can be a few ohms, for more powerful motors it can be tens and hundreds.

You can also use a multimeter to measure the characteristics of various electronic components - capacitors, diodes, transistors, etc., but this is a topic for a separate article.

Application area

Now let’s look at the main areas of using press pliers for terminating wires. Depending on the specific situation, choose a tool of the desired shape and design.

Stranded wires and thin-walled ferrules

Thin-walled lugs are used for small-section wires - from 0.5 to 3.5 mm2. The elements are marked NSHVI. The abbreviation stands for as follows:

N – tip;
Ш – pin;
B – bushing;
And - isolated.

NSHVI lugs are used for crimping stranded copper wires with subsequent insertion into sockets of various electronic devices. The crimper handles are compressed until the spring mechanism of the device is activated.

Note! Multi-stage clamp matrices allow you to work simultaneously with wires with a cross-section in the range indicated above. This eliminates the need for a large number of hand crimping tools.

Press pliers create a strong and reliable compression of the tips. Without them, one would have to twist stranded cores or solder the terminals of switchgear devices. The use of pressed end switches completely eliminates problems associated with breakage of thin wires, wire breakage, and the risk of short circuit.

Stranded wires and thick-walled ferrules

Thick-walled shanks are used for crimping multi-core power cables. Their maximum cross-section reaches 16 mm². Press pliers PK-16 are used only for multi-core wires. The tool can compress the sleeve so tightly that it can easily break a single core.

The cable crimping process occurs in several stages:

At the end of the wire, mark the length of the sleeve.
Using special nippers, remove the insulation from the marked area.
Place a piece of heat-shrinkable tubing so that it does not touch the exposed wire.
The cleaned end of the cable is inserted into the sleeve. The insertion of the wire should be tight, but without force.
The tip is crimped using pliers.
The protruding veins are bitten off.
Use a hair dryer to heat the heat shrink tube until it tightly grips the cable.

If the letter “U” is indicated in the marking of the tool, this means that the ratchet mechanism is located inside the handles, which creates a large force on the jaws of the crimper. The PK-16-U pliers compress more easily during cable crimping.

Pliers PK-16-U

For large cables

In the case of large cross-section power wires, a large hydraulic press should be used instead of pressing tongs. This type of crimper appeared much earlier than crimpers, but, as in the case with them, what kind of high-voltage cable can be crimped depends on its dimensions. The tool is not used in the domestic sphere, since the crimped bushings, tips and sleeves have considerable dimensions. This option, for example, is suitable for laying and switching power wires in electrical panels in the entrances of houses, etc.

To compress the matrix, you need to apply a lot of force to the lever. If the valve is slightly open, the rod begins to slowly move away. A fully open valve allows the stem to be quickly removed all the way to the stop. During full compression of the matrices, blocking occurs. In this case, there is no possibility of excess pressure forming, which could damage the mechanism.

Since the dies are selected depending on the overall dimensions, the hydraulic press is produced together with a cassette of several dies. The upper part is magnetized, so it automatically returns to its original position. Only the lower element of the press changes. Regardless of the position of the equipment, parts will not fly out. The tool has a rubberized handle that increases electrical safety.

Current clamps

Sometimes it becomes necessary to measure the current (or power) consumed by an electrical appliance. Theoretically, the current can be measured using a multimeter, but in practice this is not always possible. First, not all multimeters are capable of measuring AC current. Secondly, thin standard wires are not suitable for measuring currents of 1A and above in a 230 V network - their resistance is too high. Thirdly, measuring current with a multimeter is associated with the danger of electric shock, since to measure the device must be connected to an open circuit in the power supply. Therefore, it is much easier and safer to use current clamps.

Modern clamp meters are usually a universal tool and can perform the functions of a regular multimeter. Accordingly, you can do everything listed in the previous section with them.

The main difference between such a device is those same clamps - a non-contact current measuring coil. To measure current with clamps, it is not at all necessary to open the circuit - just place a single wire inside the coil. This reveals the main inconvenience of measurement - usually in electrical equipment the neutral and phase conductors are laid in one cable under common insulation. Therefore, for the convenience of using current clamps, electricians often use a specialized (usually homemade) extension cord with separate wires.

Using such an extension cord, measuring current with clamps becomes an absolutely safe and simple procedure.

Source

Crimping solid wires

Many people often wonder whether it is possible to crimp solid wires? Yes, of course, it is not prohibited to do this, you just need to use the appropriate tool for this. Ordinary crimpers are no longer suitable here, since they are designed for less force required when compressing a monocore. You will have to purchase specially designed press pliers PK-16u or PK-35u for this.

This is a universal tool and can also be used for crimping stranded wires. In order for the compression on the monocore to be high-quality and there is no play inside the sleeve, the basic rule here is to choose a sleeve or tip one size smaller than the cross-section of the wire being pressed. These pliers are also convenient for pressing several conductors simultaneously in one sleeve. This is done, for example, when making connections in junction boxes.

Pliers (tool)

Clamp meter

How to measure current using a transformer

see also

Useful

See what “Pliers (tool)” are in other dictionaries:

Safety precautions when working

Pliers are a universal tool: types and their features

Design

Purpose and principles of classification

Tip material

Advantages of crimping wires with lugs

GOST

Design features of adjustable pliers

Mid-price devices

Teng Tools

Kamasa Tools

Dexter Pro, 250 mm

RemoColor, 250 mm

Recommendations for choosing the right tool

Inexpensive clamps

Stanley

Jonnesway

Hans

Stork

Arsenal

Pliers (tool)

See what “Pliers (tool)” are in other dictionaries:

Expensive models

Knipex Cobra KN – 870225, 250 mm

KVT Profi 81768, 250 mm

Bahco with plastic handles, 250 mm

Kamasa Tools Speedy

Knipex KN – 8603180, red

Knipex KN – 8605250, blue, red

Knipex KN – 8601250, red, 250 mm

Gross 15727, 250 mm

Required tool: pliers

Pliers - tool price

Historical perspective

Probe - also known as an indicator screwdriver

Instead of an epilogue

Multimeter

Application area

Stranded wires and thin-walled ferrules

Stranded wires and thick-walled ferrules

For large cables

Current clamps

Crimping solid wires