CIRCULAR CUT
The selected die size should closely match the diameter of the cable. The cable OD should not exceed the size of the die. This can cause an excessive friction between the cable and the die, thus inhibiting rotation of the tool. (Correct die can be ordered from PATCO.)
The die is inserted into the tool and secured with provided thumb screw. The correct alignment is assured by provided key way. Properly-sized, disposable cutter is selected depending on the cable insulation thickness. All cutters are color coded for easy identification.
Once selected, the user need only remember the cutter’s color. When the cutter becomes dull and requires replacement, it is simply replaced with a cutter of the same color. No adjustments and trial cuts are necessary.
The cutter is inserted into the tool followed by a tension spring and a black thumb screw which provides variable cutter tension. Too much tension can make the closure and rotation of the stripper difficult; not enough tension will inhibit sufficient insulation penetration. The side of the cutter with holes and a slit must face the latching mechanism when inserted into the tool. (Fig.1) The tool will cut in one direction only!
The tool will open by releasing the thumb latch. The cable is placed into the groove designated for a radial cut. The desired stripping length can be selected by making a mark on the cable prior to insertion or just by using visual judgment. Closing the tool will cause the cutter to penetrate the insulation and latch its self on the cable. The razor point will penetrate the insulation and the spring loaded cutter will automatically adjust for the cable height. (Fig. 2)
Different types of insulation will require different tension settings. Fig. 1 The cable should be held firmly as close as possible to the die. The tool is rotated downward once around. (Fig. 3)
Please note that any side pressure on the tool while it is being rotated can produce an undesirable spiral cut. A properly selected cutter will not penetrate the insulation completely and will leave a thin layer of insulation uncut. The insulation should break after the cable is bent. Short sections of insulation can be removed by bending the cable in the cut area to break loose the insulation, and then pulling it off by hand. If it cannot be removed easily, an axial cut can be made and insulation peeled off. (Some types of insulation may require two axial cuts, each on the opposite side of the cable to simplify removal.)
AXIAL CUT (LENGTH WISE)
Cable is placed into a smooth groove designated for an axial cut so the razor point penetrates the insulation just below the previously made radial cut. The tool is latched on the cable and simply pulled off lengthwise, slitting the insulation. (Fig. 4) The insulation is peeled off starting at the end of the slit cable.