Workshop Practices - Information sheet

SAFETY GLASSES

Safety glasses should be worn when using a wire cutter, a crimping tool, an electric drill, or a soldering iron in the lab. Individuals watching the operation are also required to wear safety glasses. When cutting wires, it is possible for wires to fly through the air and injure an eye. The same is true if a connector comes loose during the crimping operation or metal/plastic chips becoming air born. Soldering and desoldering operations may splatter hot solder if not handled properly. You only get one pair of eyes. Electrical components (especially electrolytic capacitors) have been known to blow up at the time of failure when under power. Be sure to observe eye safety at all times.

USING WIRE CUTTERS

Wire cutters are also known as "dikes" or "side cutters." They are capable of cutting through various sizes of wires to provide a given length. When using wire cutters, be sure to point the wire being cut in a direction that causes the cut portion to "fly" away from you and others. To prevent eye injury, be sure to wear protective glasses. Be certain the cutter is capable of cutting the wire size. Different size cutters are available. A small cutter can be easily ruined by cutting too large diameter wires for the cutter size.

USING WIRE STRIPPERS

Wire strippers are used to remove the insulation from a wire prior to making a connection. The wire stripper must cut into the insulation without damaging or placing a "nick" (small cut) in the wire. Nicks will weaken the mechanical strength of your connection causing early failure. Two common types of wire strippers are available. One cuts the insulation and you must pull the insulation away. A second type has a jaw which pulls the insulation away after the insulation is cut. Both types require you to know the wire size and set up the wire stripper to the known gage (wire diameter).

USING CRIMPING TOOLS

Crimping tools are used to splice connectors onto the ends of cables. One type of crimping tool is used to connect an electrical power termination to a single wire. Another type of crimping tool is used to connect the center conductor and shield of a coaxial wire to a BNC connector (a special quick disconnect connector).

POWER ON OR OFF?

Your safety is extremely important in the lab. If you are removing or connecting wires (or plugs) inside a computer or any other equipment, be sure to turn off the power first. Power supply voltages can be lethal. DON'T TAKE CHANCES. YOUR FUSE CANNOT BE REPLACED!!

SOLDERING IRONS AND GUNS

Be sure the soldering iron is in a protective holder before turning on the power. After the power has been turned ON, remember that the high temperatures can cause severe burns. DO NOT TOUCH THE TIP OF THE IRON TO SEE IF IT IS HOT!