Tools and Consumables
Everyday needs of panel builders and field teams: crimping tools, cable cutters, marking and cleaning consumables.
Crimping, cutting, marking
6sub-categories
The right crimping tool directly determines connection quality. With Konsan hand tools (such as FC-5, FT-1 and YQK-300) and IRTU panel brushes we also cover the consumable needs of assembly and maintenance teams. For consumables we can set up a recurring delivery plan so you never run out.
What this group covers
- Hydraulic and mechanical crimping tools
- Cable cutters
- Cable strippers
- Heat-shrink tubing sets
- Panel brushes
- Marking and labelling consumables
How to choose the right product in this group
These are the same criteria we check when preparing a quotation. Send us your list and we run these checks on your behalf.
- 01
Conductor size range
The crimping tool is chosen for the conductor range in use. Using a tool outside its range raises contact resistance and causes heating.
- 02
Mechanical or hydraulic
Mechanical pliers suffice for small sizes; for large power cables hydraulic crimping is both safer and more repeatable.
- 03
Consumable continuity
For items such as tubing, labels and brushes, a recurring delivery plan prevents work stopping on site.
- 04
Calibration and repeatability
Professional crimping tools include a ratchet that does not release until the crimp is complete, so joints made by different people come out the same. For heavily used tools, periodic calibration checks are recommended.
The mistakes we meet most often on site
- Trying to crimp every size with a single tool.
- Closing a joint without checking the crimp.
- Marking cables with non-permanent materials.
- Using unsuitable brushes and chemicals for panel cleaning.
Terms you will meet in quotations and specifications
The concepts that come up most often in correspondence about this group, with short definitions.
- Crimp profile
- The shape the tool jaws leave (hexagonal, trapezoidal, indent). It must match the lug type.
- Ferrule
- A metal sleeve that gathers the strands of a flexible conductor and prevents spreading in a terminal.
- Heat-shrink tubing
- Tubing that shrinks when heated, insulating and mechanically protecting the joint.
- Torque control
- Tightening terminals and busbars to the manufacturer's value. Loose joints are the most common cause of heating.
Frequently asked about Tools and Consumables
Can we set up recurring consumable deliveries?
Yes. We set up monthly deliveries or a schedule matched to your production plan, so no one waits for consumables on site.
How do I know which crimping tool to buy?
Just tell us the conductor range you work with and the lug type (ferrule, fork, ring, bimetal). We recommend mechanical pliers for small sizes and hydraulic crimping for large power cables, and the tool and lug should come from the same system.
What should I use for cable marking?
Inside panels, printed tubing or terminal markers give a permanent result. In the field, resistance to sunlight and oil matters, so slide-on rings or tubing are preferred over adhesive labels.
What torque should terminals be tightened to?
The value is set by the terminal or device manufacturer and is usually printed on the product or in its catalogue. Using a torque screwdriver prevents both heating from loose joints and damage from over-tightening.
What should I watch for when cleaning a panel?
After isolating the supply, use an antistatic brush and low-pressure dry air, and avoid solvent-based chemicals. Filter cleaning and connection torque checks should be done in the same maintenance visit.
Explore the other groups
- SwitchgearProtection, switching and control
- Industrial AutomationPLC, drives, servo, robotics
- Cable and ConnectionPower, control, terminals, termination
- Enclosures and PanelsSheet-steel enclosures, busbars, climate control
- Cable ManagementTrunking, conduit, spiral wrap
- Control and SignallingPushbuttons, boxes, crane pendants
Have a project or a material list?
Send us your list; we return stock status, lead time and wholesale pricing the same day.