Using diagonal cutters for cutting wires is a common task in many electrical and engineering projects. As the name suggests, diagonal cutters have a diagonal cutting edge which is designed to cut through wires with minimal effort.
But how do you use them correctly to get the best results? This article will explain the basics of using diagonal cutters and provide some tips and tricks to ensure you get the best results when cutting wires. It will also discuss the various types of diagonal cutters available and the best way to select the right one for the job. So, if you’re looking for advice on how to cut wires with diagonal cutters, read on to find out more.
How To Cut Wires With Diagonal Cutters
Before we start learning how to cut wires with diagonal cutters, it’s important to understand the basics of the tool. Diagonal cutters are a type of pliers used to cut through soft metals, such as copper wiring, and are commonly used by electricians and other professionals who work with wiring.
They are designed with a sharp angled cutting edge that allows for a clean cut and minimal damage to the wire. It’s important to use the right size and type of cutters for the job, as the wrong kind can damage the wire or leave a jagged cut. In this article, we’ll discuss the different types of diagonal cutters and how to use them to make clean, precise cuts in wires.
Preparing To Cut
Before using diagonal cutters to cut wires, it is essential to make sure that the tool is up to the task. Inspect the cutters to ensure that the blades are not nicked, dull, or otherwise damaged. If so, it may be necessary to replace them. Be sure to use the right size of cutters for the job.
Too large and the wire will slip out of the cutters, too small and the cutters may not be able to cut the wire. Put on a pair of protective gloves before using the cutters as the blades can be sharp. Position the wire between the blades of the cutters, making sure to keep your fingers away from the cutting surfaces. Grip the handles tightly and squeeze firmly. The blades should cut through the wire easily.
Gathering Supplies
Before you start cutting wires with diagonal cutters, it’s important to gather the necessary supplies. First, you’ll need the diagonal cutters themselves. Make sure they are the right size for the wire you’ll be cutting.
You’ll also need safety goggles and gloves to protect your eyes and hands from any debris or sparks that may fly while you’re cutting. You’ll also want to have a rag on hand to wipe away any residue. Finally, you’ll need a wire stripper to remove any insulation from the wire and a vice to hold it still while you’re cutting. Once you have all the necessary supplies, you’re ready to get started.
Selecting The Right Wire
When selecting the right wire for cutting with diagonal cutters, it is important to consider the material and gauge of the wire. Soft iron wire is easier to cut than stainless steel, while thicker wire requires heavier cutters. For example, if you are cutting a 16-gauge wire, you should use a pair of cutters rated for 16-gauge wire.
If the wire is too thick for the cutters, you may not be able to cut it. Also, when selecting the wire, make sure to choose one that is soft and flexible. Wires that are too stiff may be difficult to cut.
Marking The Wire
When it comes to cutting wires, it’s important to properly mark the wire before starting. To do this, use a felt-tipped pen or marker to draw a line on the wire, where you plan to make the cut. This will help you identify which wire you are cutting and will make sure you don’t accidentally cut the wrong one. To make sure the line is visible, make sure to draw it on the side that will be exposed after cutting.
It is also useful to number the wires, so that you can easily identify which wires are connected to which other wires. Once the wire is properly marked, you can begin to cut it using a pair of diagonal cutters.
Cleaning The Wire
Cleaning the wires before cutting is the most important step when it comes to using diagonal cutters. Cleaning the wire removes any dirt, grime, dust, or oxidation on the wires, which can affect the performance of the wire and the cutters. To clean the wire, use a damp cloth or a wire brush to remove any dirt or grime that may have accumulated on the wire.
Use a wire brush to remove any oxidation from the wire. Make sure to dry the wire thoroughly before cutting with the diagonal cutters. This will ensure that the wire is free from any debris that may affect the performance of the cutters.
Cutting The Wire
Cutting wires with diagonal cutters is an essential skill to master for any electrician or handyman. It is important to select the correct size and type of diagonal cutters for the job. They should be able to cut through the type of wire that you are working with, and be able to cut it cleanly.
Start by firmly gripping the wire with the cutters, and snipping it in one quick motion. Make sure to hold the wire taut, and never push or pull on it as you cut. Apply just enough pressure to cut through the wire, but not too much so as to not damage the cutters themselves. After cutting, inspect the wire ends to ensure a clean cut. If the ends are not clean, re-cut the wire using a different pair of cutters. With a little practice, you’ll be able to cut wires cleanly and quickly with diagonal cutters.
Positioning The Cutters
When using diagonal cutters, proper positioning is essential. Start by gripping the wire with the pliers, then align the cutting edge of the tool with the wire. It is important to leave a bit of space between the wire and the cutting edge of the tool, as this will ensure a clean cut. To ensure a clean cut, apply pressure away from your body and towards the wire.
When the wire is cut, release the pressure and remove the cut wire. Repeat this process to complete the cutting job. Additionally, be sure to keep the tool’s cutting edge sharp at all times. This will not only help to ensure a clean cut, but it will also help to reduce the amount of force needed to make the cut.
Squeezing The Cutters
When it comes to cutting wires, the most common tool used is a pair of diagonal cutters. They are easy to use and provide a clean cut with minimal effort. To use a pair of diagonal cutters, the user must first insert the wire into the blades of the cutters. Then, the user must firmly grip the handles of the cutters and squeeze them together.
The blades should be lined up in such a way that they will cut the wire cleanly and evenly. It’s important to make sure the blades are lined up properly as misaligned blades can cause the wire to break or fray instead of cutting cleanly. Once the handles are squeezed, the wire should be cut cleanly.
The user should then release the handles and remove the cut wire. It is important to be mindful of the strength of the wire and adjust the amount of pressure accordingly. With practice, users will become more adept at using diagonal cutters to cut wires.
Inspecting The Cut
When using diagonal cutters to cut wires, it is important to inspect the cut before continuing. Ensure that the cut is even, with no jagged edges, and that the two cut ends are flush. If the cut is not even, the wire may not fit properly in whatever connection it is being used for. Additionally, the wire may be prone to shorting out.
To make sure the wire is properly cut, use a ruler to measure the length of the wire. This will ensure the cut is accurate and precise. To ensure the cut is even, look at the cut from both sides, and if it appears to be uneven, adjust the cut accordingly. After inspecting the cut, you can move on to the next step in the process.
Conclusion
Diagonal cutters are a must-have tool for any electrician, as they are designed to easily cut through a variety of wires. To use them correctly, make sure the wire is held firmly in place and the blades of the cutters are lined up with the wire.
Squeeze the handles of the cutters together and allow the blades to cut through the wire. Make sure to keep pressure on the handles until the wire is completely cut. With proper care and maintenance, diagonal cutters can be used for a variety of wire cutting tasks.
FAQ’s
1.How Do You Cut Wire With A Cutter?
Ans: To cut wire with a cutter, you will need to place the wire in the jaws of the cutter and squeeze the handles firmly to make a clean cut. Make sure that the wire is positioned correctly in the jaws and that the cutters are locked into place. Keep your hand away from the cutting area and squeeze the handles together in a single, smooth motion. Once the wire is cut, release the handles and remove the wire from the cutter.
2.Do Diagonal Cutting Pliers Cut Wire?
Ans: Yes, diagonal cutting pliers can be used to cut wire. They are specifically designed to cut through wires with ease. The blades on the pliers are angled to provide extra leverage and they are commonly used in electrical work and to cut through nails, screws, and other similar items. They are also sometimes referred to as side-cutting pliers.
3.How Do You Cut Small Wires?
Ans: There are several ways to cut small wires. A pair of wire cutters is best for this task, as it can easily snip through the wire. You can also use a utility knife or a pair of scissors to cut the wire. Make sure to wear protective gloves when cutting the wire to avoid cuts and scrapes on your hands. Finally, always cut away from yourself to ensure safety.
4.What Can Diagonal Cutting Pliers Cut?
Ans: Diagonal cutting pliers are a type of hand tool that is used for cutting materials such as wire, small bolts, and even thin metal pipes. They have sharp, angled blades that make it easy to cut through materials without slipping or damaging them.
These pliers can be used to cut through a wide variety of materials including plastic, rubber, and even electrical wiring. They are also great for cutting tight spaces that other types of pliers cannot reach.
5.What Angle Should You Be At When Cutting A Wire With Pliers?
Ans: When cutting a wire with pliers, it is important to make sure that the pliers are perpendicular to the wire. This will ensure that the wire is cut cleanly and an even amount of force is applied. It will also ensure that the wire will not slip and cause injury or damage to the pliers. In summary, the angle of the pliers should be perpendicular to the wire when cutting.
6.What Is The Best Way To Angle Pliers For Cutting Small Wires?
Ans: The best way to angle pliers for cutting small wires is to hold them in a way that the cutting part of the pliers is facing the wire. Make sure the pliers are open wide enough to fit the wire. Then, close the pliers on the wire and cut it. Finally, open the pliers and remove the cut piece of wire.
