LOOS
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about LOOS from 3G Electric.
What sleeve sizes do LOOS scissors-style cable swaging tools cover?
The LOOS hand swaging tools supplied by 3G Electric cover copper oval sleeve sizes from 1/32 in through 5/16 in. Specific models include part number 000-WCI for 1/32 in, 3/64 in, and 1/16 in sleeves; part number 0-1/16 for 1/16 in; part number 0-3/32 for 3/32 in; part number 0-1/8 for 1/8 in; part number 0-3/16 for 3/16 in; part number 0-1/4 for 1/4 in; and part number 0-5/16 for 5/16 in. The tool must be matched to the sleeve size, as the swaging geometry is specific to each dimension.
What is the difference between the LOOS #1-SC and the other LOOS swaging tools?
The LOOS #1-SC is a scissors-style hand swaging tool that accommodates copper oval sleeves in 1/16 in, 3/32 in, 1/8 in, 5/32 in, and 3/16 in sizes and includes a built-in test gauge. Other LOOS models in the 3G Electric catalog are supplied as tool-only units without a test gauge and are dedicated to a single sleeve size, such as 0-1/8 for 1/8 in or 0-1/4 for 1/4 in. The #1-SC covers multiple sleeve sizes in one tool, while the single-size models are intended for repeated work with one sleeve dimension.
What handle lengths are available for LOOS hand swaging tools?
LOOS hand swaging tools are available with 7 in, 17 in, and 25 in handle lengths. The 7 in handle is used on part number 000-WCI for small sleeves (1/32 in, 3/64 in, 1/16 in). The 17 in handle is used on part numbers 0-1/16, 0-3/32, 0-1/8, and 0-3/16. The 25 in handle is used on part numbers 0-1/4 and 0-5/16. Longer handles provide more mechanical advantage for larger sleeve sizes, which require greater force to swage.
Are LOOS swaging tools supplied with sleeves or dies?
Most LOOS swaging tools listed by 3G Electric are supplied as tool-only units. The product data for part numbers 0-1/16, 0-3/32, 0-1/8, 0-3/16, 0-1/4, and 0-5/16 indicates 'Swaging Tool Only' and does not include sleeves or dies. The LOOS #1-SC includes a test gauge but is also a hand tool for use with separately purchased copper oval sleeves. Buyers should order sleeves separately based on the wire rope or cable diameter and the required termination strength.
What applications use LOOS scissors-style cable swaging tools?
LOOS scissors-style cable swaging tools are used to crimp copper oval sleeves onto wire rope or cable to create secure terminations. Typical applications include rigging, fencing, cable assemblies, and general wire rope fabrication. The tools are hand-operated and do not require an external power source, making them suitable for field work or shop use. They are used where a manual, repeatable swaging method is preferred over powered crimping equipment. The correct tool must be selected based on the sleeve size being installed.
How does 3G Electric list LOOS swaging tools for procurement?
3G Electric lists LOOS swaging tools with the manufacturer part number, type, and handle length. For example, part number 0-1/8 is listed as a swaging tool only with a 17 in handle for 1/8 in copper oval sleeves. The catalog includes both test-gauge models and tool-only models. Buyers can request a quote for specific part numbers and confirm availability. The product data is structured so that the sleeve size and handle length are the primary selection criteria, which helps match the tool to existing sleeve inventory or a bill of materials.
