How to Choose the Right DMC Crimp Tool: A Complete Buyer’s Guide
Selecting the right crimp tool is crucial for ensuring consistent, reliable, and compliant electrical connections especially in aerospace, defense, railways, and manufacturing. Because every connector and contact type requires a specific crimp profile, choosing the wrong tool can lead to costly rework, system failures, and non-compliance.
This guide will help you understand how to choose the perfect DMC (Daniels Manufacturing Corporation) crimp tool for your application.
1. Identify Your Contact Type: Machined or Stamped?
Different terminals require different tools:
- Machined contacts → Used in aerospace & defense connectors
- Stamped & formed contacts → Used in automotive & industrial systems
DMC offers precision tools for both.
Knowing your contact type is the first step in tool selection.
2. Check the Wire Gauge & Connector Series
DMC crimp tools are designed for specific wire sizes.
Before selecting a tool, confirm your:
- AWG (American Wire Gauge) size
- Connector series (e.g., MIL-DTL-38999, ARINC, EN, etc.)
Tools like DMC AFM8, AF8, and HX4 are industry favorites because they support a wide range of wire sizes and contact types.
3. Select the Required Positioner / Turret Head
The crimping accuracy depends greatly on the correct:
- Positioner
- Turret head
- Indentor (for some tool models)
Each connector and contact type needs a specific positioner code.
This ensures the conductor sits in the exact location for a perfect crimp.
4. Ensure Your Tool is Calibrated
A calibrated crimp tool guarantees:
- Proper indentation depth
- Correct pull-out strength
- Compliance with aerospace/defense standards
HiTech Toolkits provides certified calibration services for all DMC Tools.
5. Avoid Counterfeit Tools
Duplicate DMC tools look similar but fail in:
- Crimp depth
- Durability
- Tool life
- Military/aerospace compliance
Always purchase from an authorized distributor like HiTech Toolkits.
Conclusion
Choosing the right DMC crimp tool ensures reliability, safety, and compliance. With proper selection and calibration, your operations remain fault-free and efficient.