David Barnes, Marketing Manager at KNIPEX, looks at five hand tools and innovations that save time, money and effort for electricians.
For electrical wholesalers aiming to support their customers, staying informed about the latest tools and innovations is important. After all, anything that saves electricians time, money and effort will prove popular at the trade counter. We see this in action at tradeshows such as Elex, where electricians get to try out our tools on specially made rigs. The feedback is usually unanimous; enthusiasm for innovative hand tools that are meticulously engineered to streamline everyday tasks, can enhance an electrician’s efficiency, organisation and safety.
With this in mind, every year, KNIPEX launches its new innovations and 2024 is no different. This year, the renowned StepCut has been upscaled to introduce the new XL version (95 18 225), featuring a front cutting edge designed specifically for handling larger cable cross-sections. It can slice through solid copper and aluminium cables up to 35mm², stranded cables up to 70mm² and fine-stranded cables as large as 120mm².
Stepping up
The StepCut XL incorporates a power joint and long handles that significantly reduce the effort needed for cutting. It has two distinct cutting areas: a front cutting edge for tackling very large cables incrementally, equipped with an ergonomically designed handle, and a stepped main cutting edge that holds the cable close to the joint. This design ensures optimal leverage, requiring less force during the cutting process. Safety features include an anti-pinch guard to prevent injuries and a screwable joint that allows for recalibration, ensuring that the shears remain precise and smooth-operating over time.
Another new tool for 2024 is the new Stripping Knife (16 50 145 SB) which features a practical ratchet function that makes work faster, safer and more efficient. Even very hard cable sheaths can be easily cut by the versatile blade, while a Guide Shoe protects the conductor insulation under the sheath. This stripping knife can be used to safely and quickly cut and remove even very hard or tough plastic sheaths, for example on underground or connection cables, with a wall thickness of up to 7mm.
It has three different cutting areas: one blade segment is designed for a lengthwise cut by pushing, the other for a lengthwise cut by pulling or ratcheting (the ratchet function ensures less effort and more comfort when working). A further blade segment with an additional cutting edge means the knife penetrates easily into the material during circumferential cutting.
Slim and sturdy
And don’t forget old favourites. The KNIPEX Metric Wirestripper (13 76 200 ME) blends efficiency and precision in a user-friendly design. It has a broad range of capacities and sharp stripping profiles for accurate wire positioning, simplifying cable work. The innovative cutting geometry makes all cutting easier, especially flat cables, and its hybrid design combines the slimness of needle-nose pliers with the sturdiness of combination pliers, ensuring great stability and easy access. Additional features include wide, textured gripping surfaces for secure wire twisting, a milled groove for holding small items, and a special surface for securely gripping both flat and round materials.
KNIPEX is looking beyond its tool range this year – it is also transforming the way its tools are handled, with the introduction of new multi-component comfort handles. The classic red and blue grips have evolved: the new design features a three-part system each with a distinct purpose. A grey textured component ensures a slip-resistant grip, while the familiar blue remains soft for a comfortable, secure hold that also protects hands. The red section has been toughened up to add even more strength durability. These handles also a discreetly recessed labelling area and the innovative KNIPEXtend edge at the handle’s tip, perfect for customising your tools with attachments to suit various tasks.
Compatible clips
KNIPEX is also aware of how important individual tools are to each user and knows how, on busy construction sites, it can be tricky to organise and quickly identify tools. The KNIPEX ColorCode Clips are a straightforward solution. Compatible with all tools featuring the KNIPEXtend system, these clips are available in 10 distinct colours and easily attach to the end of the tool handle so tools can be quickly spotted. The ColorCode Clips adhere to the ANSI/ISEA 121-2018 standards so meet rigorous safety and performance requirements. For those with access to a 3D printer, KNIPEX also provides the data to create custom clip designs, holders and other accessories so tools can be tailored to fit perfectly within toolboxes or pouches enhancing efficiency and usability on site.
KNIPEX continues to set the standard for professional tools, delivering innovations that promise efficiency, safety and precision. With cutting-edge solutions for cable and pipe cutting, ergonomic new handles and easy-to-identify tools for job site use, these tools are not just additions to a toolbox; they are essential assets that significantly enhance work quality and boost job site efficiency.
For further information about KNIPEX’s products, click here
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