What To Know
- The angle at which the pliers are held will affect the precision and cleanliness of the cut.
- Clamp the workpiece securely in a vise or use a pair of locking pliers to hold it in place.
- Hold the pliers perpendicular to the wire or cable and position the blades over the desired cutting point.
Pliers, indispensable tools in the world of construction, mechanics, and DIY enthusiasts, are renowned for their versatility and gripping prowess. However, a common question that arises is whether these trusty implements can be cut. This blog post delves into the depths of this topic, examining the different types of pliers, their capabilities, and the limitations that come with them.
Types of Pliers and Their Functions
Before exploring the question of whether pliers can be cut, it is essential to understand the various types of pliers available:
- Needle Nose Pliers: Characterized by their long, pointed jaws, needle nose pliers are ideal for intricate tasks like jewelry making, electronics repair, and wire manipulation.
- Slip Joint Pliers: Featuring adjustable jaws, slip joint pliers are commonly used for gripping and holding objects of varying sizes.
- Lineman’s Pliers: Designed specifically for electrical work, lineman’s pliers combine cutting, stripping, and crimping capabilities into a single tool.
- Locking Pliers: With their self-locking mechanism, locking pliers provide a secure grip on objects, even with minimal hand strength.
- Diagonal Cutters: Specialized for cutting wires and small cables, diagonal cutters feature sharp, angled blades that provide a clean and precise cut.
Can Pliers Be Cut?
The answer to the titular question is both yes and no. While pliers are primarily designed for gripping and holding, certain types of pliers can indeed be used for cutting purposes:
- Diagonal Cutters: As mentioned earlier, diagonal cutters are specifically designed for cutting wires and small cables. Their sharp blades and angled design make them highly effective for this task.
- Lineman’s Pliers: Lineman’s pliers often incorporate cutting blades into their design, enabling them to cut through wires and cables with ease.
Pliers Not Suitable for Cutting
While diagonal cutters and lineman’s pliers can be used for cutting, other types of pliers are not suitable for this purpose:
- Needle Nose Pliers: The delicate jaws of needle nose pliers are not designed to withstand the force required for cutting.
- Slip Joint Pliers: Although slip joint pliers can be used for gripping, their jaws are not sharp enough for cutting.
- Locking Pliers: Locking pliers are intended for gripping and holding, not cutting. Attempting to cut with locking pliers can damage the jaws and compromise their functionality.
Factors to Consider Before Cutting with Pliers
If you intend to use diagonal cutters or lineman’s pliers for cutting, it is crucial to consider the following factors:
- Material Hardness: The hardness of the material being cut will determine the effectiveness of the pliers. Diagonal cutters are best suited for soft materials like wires and cables.
- Wire Thickness: The thickness of the wire or cable will influence the size of the pliers needed. Thicker wires require larger pliers with stronger blades.
- Cutting Angle: The angle at which the pliers are held will affect the precision and cleanliness of the cut.
Proper Techniques for Cutting with Pliers
To ensure safe and effective cutting with pliers, follow these techniques:
- Wear Safety Gear: Always wear safety goggles and gloves when cutting wires or cables.
- Secure the Workpiece: Clamp the workpiece securely in a vise or use a pair of locking pliers to hold it in place.
- Position the Pliers: Hold the pliers perpendicular to the wire or cable and position the blades over the desired cutting point.
- Apply Pressure: Squeeze the pliers firmly and steadily until the wire or cable is cut through.
- Check the Cut: Inspect the cut to ensure it is clean and free of burrs or sharp edges.
Alternatives to Cutting with Pliers
In cases where pliers are not suitable for cutting, alternative tools can be used:
- Wire Strippers: Designed specifically for stripping insulation from wires, wire strippers can also be used to cut wires.
- Tin Snips: Ideal for cutting sheet metal and other thin materials, tin snips provide a clean and precise cut.
- Hacksaw: For cutting through thicker materials like metal rods or pipes, a hacksaw is a suitable option.
Takeaways: Unraveling the Cutting Capabilities of Pliers
In conclusion, while not all pliers are capable of cutting, diagonal cutters and lineman’s pliers are specifically designed for this purpose. However, it is essential to consider the material hardness, wire thickness, and cutting angle when using pliers for cutting. Proper techniques and safety precautions should always be followed to ensure effective and safe operation. For materials that are not suitable for cutting with pliers, alternative tools like wire strippers, tin snips, or hacksaws should be used.
Answers to Your Questions
Q1: Can I use regular pliers to cut wires?
A: No, regular pliers are not designed for cutting. Attempting to cut wires with regular pliers can damage the jaws and compromise their functionality.
Q2: What type of pliers should I use to cut cables?
A: Lineman’s pliers are the best choice for cutting cables. They are equipped with sharp blades that can easily cut through wires and cables.
Q3: How thick of a wire can I cut with diagonal cutters?
A: The thickness of the wire that can be cut with diagonal cutters depends on the size and quality of the cutters. Generally, diagonal cutters can cut wires up to 14 gauge (2.08 mm in diameter).
Q4: Can I cut metal with pliers?
A: No, pliers are not suitable for cutting metal. Using pliers to cut metal can damage the jaws and compromise their functionality.
Q5: What is the proper way to hold pliers when cutting?
A: Hold the pliers perpendicular to the wire or cable and position the blades over the desired cutting point. Squeeze the pliers firmly and steadily until the wire or cable is cut through.
