What additional features do sprue cutters have?
What additional features do sprue cutters have? |
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Some sprue cutters may have particular features that make them better quality, or more suited for cutting certain materials. | |||
Compound lever action |
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A compound lever action is when two levers are combined so that the output force of one lever is applied as the input force to the second lever. | |||
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The handles of the sprue cutter provide leverage that greatly increases the force applied by the user. The compound lever action uses a second lever to further increase this force. This means sprue cutters with a compound lever action can deliver a much greater cutting force, enabling them to cut thicker and harder material than other sprue cutters. | |||
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ADVANTAGES | DISADVANTAGES | ||||||
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Lock |
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Some sprue cutters have a lock for locking the handles together. This allows the sprue cutter to be stored with the handles kept together so that it takes up less space and fits more easily in a tool box. | |||
Retaining chain or strap |
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A retaining chain or strap serves the same role as the lock found on other sprue cutters. It is located at the end of the handle and loops over the end of the other handle to hold the two handles together, so that the sprue cutter takes up less space and fits into a tool box. |
Tapered tip |
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On some sprue cutters the non-cutting sides of the jaws narrow progressively to a point. This is called a tapered tip, which allows the jaws to gain access into tight areas of a sprue tree to remove small delicate parts from the sprue. However, this means the jaws will not be as strong and so unsuitable for use on thick or hard material. | |||
Cutting capacity |
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The cutting capacity is the maximum thickness of wire the sprue cutter is recommended for use on, and will often be stated for both hard and soft metal. For more information on cutting capacity see our page | |||
Ergonomic handles |
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Ergonomic handles are ones that are shaped so they fit better in your hand. Ergonomic handles make tools more comfortable to use and reduce the risk of the user getting repetitive motion injuries. | |||
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