Wire cutters can refer to tools used to cut thread or wires in manufacturing, with craft thread cutters being safer alternatives to scissors. They can be found in craft stores and are sometimes viewed as security threats by airline agencies. Manufacturing wire cutters can make cylindrical or tapered threads and are often designed for automation. Home hardware and supplies may also have wire cutters available for cutting custom threads. Plumbers and professionals may use thread cutters to rethread worn fixtures, and portable wire cutters with accessories are available from manufacturers and suppliers.
The term “wire cutter” can be used in many different ways, with the meaning usually clear from the context. In the arts and crafts world, a thread cutter is any tool designed to cut thread, yarn, and similar materials. In manufacturing, wire cutters are usually devices designed to cut wires in fasteners, pipes, and other items; threading is used for everything from making geared devices to creating pipes that fit snugly together.
Craft thread cutters are alternatives to scissors designed to sever thread cleanly and efficiently. Many sewing machines come with thread cutters mounted on them for convenience, and people can also purchase thread cutters worn on the hands or around the neck so they have easy access and keep their hands free. These devices are safer to use than scissors. The classic design consists of a mostly concealed disc-shaped blade mounted in a movable housing that allows people to insert the wire and push down to cut it.
Crafters can find wire cutters at many craft stores. They are sometimes touted as alternatives to flying scissors, although crafters should be aware that some airline security agencies view clippers as security threats that must be placed in checked luggage. If people are unsure about the type of devices they can take on a plane, they should consult the airline beforehand.
For manufacturing, threading is part of the milling process. Facilities that produce milled metal and plastic materials keep wire cutters on hand to finish their products. These devices can make cylindrical or tapered threads, with internal and external threading options available. This type of wire cutter can be quite expensive and may be able to cut multiple objects at once, increasing efficiency on the production line. Such devices are often designed for automation, to streamline the manufacturing process so costs are kept low.
Some home hardware and supplies also have a wire cutter available. In this case, the device is used to cut custom threads upon customer request. Plumbers and other professionals who work with threaded materials may also maintain a thread cutter so they can cut custom threads and rethread worn fixtures. Portable wire cutters that can be taken to job sites, etc. are available from some manufacturers and contract suppliers and can be ordered with various accessories.
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