Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc.
Chapter 11 Electrical Engineering 239
Crimpers come in many shapes and sizes. They
are used to squeeze and compress connectors onto
the ends of wires. The connectors are then held on
with friction. See Figure E.
Soldering pencils are used to heat solder so
it will flow around electrical parts to make connec-
tions and to heat solder for removal. See Figure H.
Always be careful when handling soldering pencils
because they get very hot. Never touch a soldering
pencil anywhere other than the handle. Always wear
safety goggles when soldering. Make sure the solder-
ing pencil is placed securely in its holder when not in
use. Always unplug the soldering pencil and allow it to
cool before leaving the room. Always be certain that
the power is off and disconnected before working on
any electrical circuit.
Skoda/Shutterstock.com
Figure E.
Utility knives are used for cutting, Figure F. Be
careful when using utility knives. They are known to
cause many injuries. Always cut away from yourself
and make sure you and others are clear of the path of
the moving knife. Always make sure the blade is fully
retracted before putting it in your pocket or tool belt.
PRILL/Shutterstock.com
Figure F.
Desoldering pumps are used to remove sol-
der when a part needs to be removed from a circuit
board or if solder has created a short. See Figure G.
Use your thumb to pull the spring-loaded trigger on
the end until it clicks and stays in place. Melt the sol-
der using a soldering pencil. Place the end of the
desoldering pump against the molten solder and
press the button on the side. A spring-loaded plunger
inside the pump moves, causing the molten solder to
be sucked into the pump.
Shahril KHMD/Shutterstock.com
Figure G.
Luís Brás/Shutterstock.com
Figure H.