A Comprehensive Comparison of Ratchet and Compound Battery Cable Crimpers

Crimpers for cables are a must-have for any electrician or electronics technician. With the help of a quality crimping tool, you can reliably attach a connector to a cable. It can be challenging to decide which tool to use due to the abundance of options. Here we shall examine the similarities and differences between ratchet cable crimpers and compound battery cable crimpers.

Ratchet Cable Crimpers

A ratchet cable crimper is a hand tool that squeezes the cable and connector together by means of a ratcheting mechanism. To ensure a tight crimp, the tool is calibrated to apply just the right amount of force. The use of ratchet cable crimpers has a number of benefits, including:

• Affordable: It won’t break the bank to replace your cable crimpers with a ratchet model.
• Reliable: Ratchet cable crimpers are built to last for years thanks to the high-quality materials they are constructed with.
• Easy to Use: With their simple design and intuitive operation, ratchet cable crimpers are perfect for amateurs and inexperienced users.

There are, however, drawbacks to using ratchet cable crimpers, including:

• Limited Capacity: Ratchet cable crimpers are not suited for crimping thicker cables due to their limited capacity.
• Fatigue: The tool can be tiring to use for long periods of time due to the amount of physical effort it needs.
• Inconsistent Results: The inconsistency of the crimp might be attributed to the user’s strength and technique.

IWISS’s Ratchet Crimping Tool and Klein Tools’ Ratcheting Crimper are two ratchet cable crimpers. DIY tasks and minor electrical repairs benefit most from the use of ratchet cable crimpers, as these tools are best suited for working with little and medium-sized wires.

Compound Battery Cable Crimpers

One variety of battery-powered cable crimpers, known as a “compound battery cable crimper,” employs a hydraulic mechanism to squeeze the cable and connector together. Because of its powerful construction, this tool is perfect for crimping thicker wires. Compound battery cable crimpers have a number of benefits, including:

• High Capacity: Compound battery cable crimpers have a higher capacity than ratchet cable crimpers, making them more suitable for industrial or commercial applications or for more extensive electrical work.
• Efficient: Battery-powered tools like compound battery cable crimpers are convenient since they cut down on manual labor and user fatigue.
• Consistent Results: The tool’s hydraulic system ensures uniform pressure throughout each crimp, guaranteeing quality work every time.

However, compound battery cable crimpers also have some disadvantages, including:

• Expensive: Compound battery cable crimpers are generally more expensive than ratchet cable crimpers.
• Requires Maintenance: The battery and hydraulic components require regular maintenance and upkeep.
• Heavy: Due to the hydraulic mechanism and battery, compound battery cable crimpers can be heavier and bulkier than ratchet cable crimpers.

Examples of compound battery cable crimpers include the TEMCo Hydraulic Cable Lug Crimper and the Mophorn Hydraulic Crimper. Compound battery cable crimpers are best suited for professional use or for larger electrical projects where higher force and capacity are required.

Comparison of Ratchet vs Compound Battery Cable Crimper

Several aspects should be thought about while deciding between ratchet and compound battery cable crimpers. The advantages of ratchet cable crimpers are lower cost, ease of use, and compatibility with cables of varying sizes. Compound battery cable crimpers, on the other hand, can handle larger cables and are more suited to professional use, but they cost more and require maintenance.

Ultimately, the choice between ratchet and compound battery cable crimpers depends on your specific needs and budget. If you are a DIY enthusiast or only need to crimp small to medium-sized cables, a ratchet cable crimper may be sufficient. However, if you are a professional electrician or need to crimp larger cables, a compound battery cable crimper may be a better choice.

In this table, we will examine the differences between ratchet and compound battery cable crimpers:

Final Words

Choosing the right cable crimper is essential for ensuring a secure and reliable connection between cables and connectors. Ratchet and compound battery cable crimpers are two popular options, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. By considering factors such as cable size, project size, and budget, you can make an informed decision and choose the right tool for your needs. Remember to always use the appropriate safety measures when working with electrical equipment and follow manufacturer instructions for best results.