Supplies for Copper Wire

Choosing the right tools for copper wiring work prevents accidents and speeds installation

Working with copper wire requires tools to cut, strip and crimp copper wire installations. These tools come in variety of different types, sizes and prices, depending on the tool quality and complexity. Some have special features, like slip-resistant handles or insulation. The vast majority of these tools come in basic models for the economically minded, and deluxe models for those who need all the bells and whistles.

When looking for tools to handle copper wiring, its best to select several different types and sizes of items like screwdrivers, pliers, crimpers and wire strippers. Some industrial copper wire requires larger tools than simple electrical copper wire, and may be more difficult to cut. Depending on how thick the wire is, you may need to purchase a heavy-duty cutter and pliers. Just remember, thicker wire and cable results in higher tool and copper wire prices.

1. Insulated tools will help prevent you from getting a shock should you accidentally touch a live copper wire with tools.

2. If you plan to work with copper cable and wire often, get ergonomic tools, which are designed to be more comfortable when working for long periods of time.

3. Some tools can do multiple jobs, depending on the model and job. Wire cutters, for instance, are often combined with crimpers to save space in the tool box or belt.

 

Buy pliers for installing and adjusting copper wire and cable

Pliers are available in many different types, from long-nose pliers to side and diagonal cutting pliers. Each type of plier is best suited for a certain type of job. Long-nose pliers, for instance, are usually used to adjust, wrap and twist wire during installation. Other types of pliers may be essential depending on what type of job you'll be doing, so its best to have a large selection available.
Try: Pick from a wide range of pliers at My Toolstore's website or grab a pair from Goodmart.

Purchase wire cutters for severing copper wire and cable

The strength of the wire cutter you'll need to cut bare copper wire or cable depends on the wire's thickness and the number of strands. The difficulty you'll have cutting it can also be affected by any other metals present in the copper wiring. Copper alloy wires can be more difficult to cut, depending on what metal the copper is mixed with. For most jobs, a hand-held wire cutter will do the job, but some larger jobs may need a foot or electrically operated wire cutter.
Try: Choose from a wide variety of hand-held wire cutters available from Cable Organizer, or check out an automated electric model for cutting large amounts, such as bulk copper wire, like the one from Cutter Industries.

Use wire strippers to remove casing from copper wire

You'll need cable and wire strippers to install copper electrical cable and wire. These are sometimes built-in on pliers, or come as their own tool. They are used to pull casing off wire, allowing it to be connected or split. You may need larger or stronger wire strippers to strip thick cable or wire.
Try: Buy wire strippers from Lowes, or check out the wire cutter and stripper combo available from Action-Electronics.

 

• Sometimes other supplies for copper wire, like tape measures, crimpers, levels and other tools are needed to complete a job. Often, tool sets are available in varying sizes specialized for various jobs, like electrical work. These tool sets have everything you'll need to do a wide variety of jobs.

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