Part 4: Stripping coaxial cables
In this article of our series “What does our Starter Set Pro have to offer?”, you’ll find out how to strip coaxial cables and which tools you need to get it done quickly and efficiently. In the previous articles of this series, we’d already covered our handy Cable Stripper No. S 4-28, the Wire Stripper No. 5 and the Round Cable Stripper No. 13.
Click here to read the first, second and third part of our mini series. However, today is all about our Coax Stripper No. 2.
The selection of stripping tools for electrical installations can be overwhelming. Especially hobby electricians often don’t know which tools they should buy to be well equipped for their projects. We’ll make things easier for you! Our WEICON TOOLS Starter Set Pro contains the most important must-have tools for every electrician – professional or DIY enthusiast.
Coaxial cable – a special type of cable
Coaxial cables (abbreviated: coax cables) are common mainly in broadcasting, antenna and measurement technology. For example, they are often used as antenna cables for radio or television reception or as connectors for loudspeakers in the audio sector.
What is special about coaxial cables? They are multilayer cables consisting of a centre conductor (also called the core) and an outer conductor that shields the centre conductor from interference radiation. There is also an insulator between the two conductors. Due to the special structure, you can probably already imagine that an equally special tool is needed to strip a coaxial cable.
Stripping coaxial cables in the modern era
Thanks to the invention of modern strippers, fortunately, you don’t have to resort to box cutters or pocketknives for stripping coaxial cables anymore. Clever stripping tools, such as our Coax Stripper No. 2, ensure that you can bare the centre conductor of the coaxial cable in a smooth process and with clean edges – without any annoying fumbling. In our “How-to” instructions below, we show you each step of the process.
With our Coax Stripper No. 2, all common coaxial cables with an outer diameter of 4.8 to 7.5 mm can be stripped step by step. Connecting cables of 3 x 0.75 mm², stranded cables of 10 and 16 mm² and NYM wires of 3 x 1.5 mm² can also be stripped. Step-by-step stripping means that the stripping is carried out in two steps: Side A is used to remove the outer sheath. Side B exposes the centre conductor.
How-to: Strip coaxial cables
- First remove the outer sheath from the conducting shield with side A.
- A silver braided shield appears under the sheath, which you carefully wrap around the cable (depending on the manufacturer’s specifications).
- Finally, use side B to remove the insulation from the centre conductor, which is then exposed.
The special feature of our WEICON Coax Stripper No. 2? A prior adjustment of the cutting depth is not necessary, it adjusts itself. In addition, the stripper has a very space-saving design to ensure good accessibility of the cables.
Thanks to special recesses and grip zones in the tool surface, it is easy and safe to handle. This means that even rather inexperienced users can carry out the stripping process safely and professionally.
You can watch all steps in detail in this video:
The Coax Stripper No. 2 at a glance:
• Step-by-step stripping of all common coaxial cables, stranded cables and NYM wires (side A: stripping of the outer sheath; side B: exposing the centre conductor)
• No need to adjust the cutting depth
• Integrated length scale (up to 25 mm)
• Easy and safe handling
• Material: wear-resistant polyamide
• TÜV-tested safety
Written by guest author Lina Stoffer – working student public relations
