How to cut an electrical wire (step by step guide with photos)
Content
Cutting electrical wires can be a simple process. However, there are many cutting methods and tools. You can use these methods and tools to cut wires of all sizes and shapes.
In general, to cut and shape any type of wire, use diagonal wire cutters. Also, use pliers to splice or cut wires. Use long-nosed pliers for thin wires. When cutting live wires, be sure to turn off the power.
Before we begin
I plan to break this post into three parts. In the first part, we will talk about cutting tools. The second and third parts will be devoted to setting up the workspace and cutting wires. With that in mind, let's get started.
Part 1 - Collecting cutting tools
Here we'll talk about four different wire cutters that can come in handy on your electrical DIY project.
Pliers
Lineman pliers are popular wire cutters in construction and electrical work. Mostly used by electricians. It is a great tool for gripping, bending, twisting and cutting electrical wires.
Typically, the cutting device is located on one side of the pliers. Lineman's pliers are the safest option for cutting electrical wires.
Tip: Lineman pliers are also known as side cutters.
Long Nose Pliers
Pliers with a thin pointed end are the best tool for cutting short wires. Or you can use these pliers to get to hard to reach places. We use long-nosed pliers to cut electrical wires from 8 to 24 in diameter. Also known as needle nose pliers and needle nose pliers.
These types of pliers are used by jewelry designers, network engineers, electricians, and craftsmen. Besides cutting, you can use these pliers to bend or reposition wires. The narrow tip of these pliers is suitable for joining multiple wires together.
Pliers for diagonal cutting
Diagonal wire cutters are the best option for all types of wire sizes and shapes. You can use these pliers to grab and turn objects. You don't need any other tool when you use diagonal cutters. These pliers can be used as wire cutters and wire strippers. There are no wire size restrictions. You can cut and strip any wire with diagonal pliers.
Tip: Diagonal cutters are also known as dykes.
Pliers
Pliers with a short and stunted tip are a great choice for short cuts. You can easily cut wires without wasting much of the wire length.
Tip: You can use wire cutters to cut rivets and nails.
Choose the right pliers from the four tools listed above. Remember that diagonal wire cutters are suitable for any wire. So, if you don't know what to choose, use diagonal cutters.
Is it safe to use scissors?
Most people tend to use scissors instead of wire cutters. But is it safe? Using scissors can hurt you if they are not strong enough and do not cut properly. So cutting wires is not the safest option. However, if you don't have pliers, scissors might be your option for plan c.
Keep in mind: Some people use a utility knife to cut wires. But it's more dangerous than using scissors.
Part 2. Preparing to cut the wires
Before you start, you need to settle a few things. In this section, we will talk about them step by step.
Step 1: Safety First
Whenever you complete an electrical project, it is always best to take the necessary precautions. Remember to wear safety goggles and protective gloves. Wearing goggles is nice. When cutting and stripping, small pieces of wire can get into your eyes. (1)
Step 2 - Organize Your Workbench
Gather all the items needed for this project and place them on the workbench. Separate wires and tools properly. Also adjust the workbench to a comfortable position. You should be able to cut and strip wires without bending over. This method is the safest. The desktop must be a flat surface.
Step 3 - Turn off the power
Never start a project without turning off the power. You may be electrocuted. So, find the circuit breaker that supplies power to the wires and turn it off. Or turn off the main switch on the control panel. After turning off the power, use a voltage tester to make sure everything is off.
Keep in mind: Cutting live wires carrying electricity can result in electric shock. And sometimes it could damage wires and electrical appliances.
Step 4 - Untangle the Wires
Remove the required length from the spool when cutting new wires such as jewelry, electrical wires or barbed wire. This will help a lot when you start cutting and deburring.
Part 3 - Cut the wires
After correctly following the above instructions, you can now start cutting. Follow this simple 5 step guide to get it done.
Step 1 - Check tools and clean
First, check all the wire cutters and wire strippers you use in this process. They must be clean and sharp. Otherwise, you won't be able to get a good final cut. If necessary, clean the tools and remove dust from the pliers. Use a clean cloth for this. Take some oil and apply it to the blades and joints of the pliers.
Then check the blade of the pliers. If the blades are dull, then sharpen them. Or use pliers with sharp blades.
Step 2 - Grasp the handle firmly
Then firmly grasp the handle of the pliers. Use your dominant hand for this. One side of the handle should be on the thumb and palm. The other side should be on the other four fingers. This is the best way to hold the pliers. If you hold it incorrectly, the pliers may slip out of your hands when cutting wires. In this case, you may be injured or damage the wires.
Step 3 - Place the pliers on the wire
Now unfold the handles of the pliers. Then place the exposed blades on the wire. Remember to position the blades exactly where you want to cut the wire.
If you are planning to cut a specific length of wire, measure the required length before cutting the wire.
Step 4 - Check the Right Angle
When cutting electrical wires, the cutting angle plays an important role. For example, the wire can be damaged if the cutting angle is too steep. So, try to achieve a clean and even cut.
Step 5 - Cut the Wires
Gently apply pressure to the handle of the pliers. Squeeze both handles at the same time. And the grip must be strong. Otherwise, you will not get a balanced cut. Also, do not swing the pliers at this stage. (2)
Sometimes the wire may not cut completely on the first try. If so, restart the process again. Remember that if you make a mistake with the cutting angle, the wire will not be cut completely. Sometimes the problem can be old or faulty pliers. In any case, check everything before the second cut.
Summing up
Whether you're using pliers to go around the line or diagonal cutters, the above guide will help. Always remember, using the right pliers will help you get a clean and even cut.
Take a look at some of our articles below.
- How to cut wire without wire cutters
- How to plug electrical wires
- What is the blue wire on the ceiling fan
Recommendations
(1) electrical project - https://interestingengineering.com/12-electrical-engineering-projects-that-will-impress-your-teachers
(2) Applying force - https://study.com/learn/lesson/applied-force-types-of-forces.html
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