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[zoidberg]

A question for them wot really knows their 'lectrics tools. Not scrimping, I have the crimper tools shown below - and a couple of cheap 'n nasty sorts.
How best do I learn to select the right die size for the job?

 

[sarabande]

Klauke are generous in their advice.

https://www.klauke.com/en/electrical/crimping/crimping-dies/

All the profiles with suggested uses.

And for larger dia crimps

https://www.klauke.com/en/electrical/sectors-solutions/technical-reports/crimp-types-at-a-glance/



And

https://info.waytekwire.com/blog/how-to-choose-the-right-crimping-tools

 

[MikeCC]

The hydraulic crimpers will often not match the lugs to provide good compression. You'll probably need to use 'correct' size first, then go down one but apply carefully so you don't get tags on the terminal.

I've seen supposition that the mm dies on Chinese crimpers are nearest US gauge but with mm numbers on. In critical applications, the crimps and tools will come from same maker.

 

[lw395]

Be guided by the data sheet from the terminal manufacturer.
Do a test run and see if you can pull the crimp off. Passing that puts you in the top third of amateur wiremen I think!
The wires should get significantly distorted by the crimping process, moving metal around. 'More' tends to be 'better' up to the point where you're almost cutting it in half!

Use decent terminals from the likes of TE, Harwin,.....

 

[zoidberg]

Thanks to all. There's some homework there.