Milwaukee 6T Utility Crimper Kit

Crimping has always been a task that demands precision, reliability, and ease of use, especially in the field. Having the right tool for the job is critical, and as someone who frequently works with high-voltage lines, my expectations for a crimper are notably high. Recently, I had the opportunity to work extensively with the Milwaukee 6T Utility Crimper Kit, model number 2678-22BG, and here's my comprehensive take on it.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that struck me about this crimper was its solid build. Weighing in at 17.465 pounds, it’s a bit on the heavier side, but this weight contributes to its sturdiness. The tool is designed with a fully balanced grip, which Milwaukee claims is optimized for use even with class 3 gloves. The ergonomic grip does provide improved control and alignment, though I have found that the balance can be a bit awkward in certain positions, particularly horizontal crimping. Vertically, however, the tool feels well-balanced and stable.

The 6T Utility Crimper features an in-line design with a 350-degree head rotation, which is a significant advantage when working in tight and challenging spaces. This flexibility has been a game-changer in making those hard-to-reach crimping jobs much more manageable.

Performance

Performance-wise, the crimper excels in many respects. The integrated adaptive pressure control system is particularly noteworthy. It measures and adjusts the pressure to ensure optimal crimping performance, which is crucial for achieving consistent and reliable connections. The tool also features instant pressure verification with visual indicators, giving me confidence that each crimp is done correctly.

One of the standout features is its fast crimping speed—just 2.9 seconds per crimp. This speed is a significant improvement over other models I’ve used, like the Greenlee Gator, which tends to lag. The automatic opening mechanism post-crimp is another time-saver, allowing for a smooth workflow without the need for manual resetting.

Usability in the Field

In practical, everyday use, the 6T Utility Crimper proves to be very reliable. The brushless motor contributes to its extended tool life, and the optimized hydraulic system ensures consistent performance across a range of temperatures—an essential feature given the varied conditions I work in.

However, there are a few caveats. The tool's back end is somewhat heavy, making it less comfortable to hold for prolonged periods, especially if not in the ideal position. The release button is also awkwardly placed, which can be a hindrance when working with live primary voltage where one hand needs to be on the wire, and the other on the tool. This is something Milwaukee could improve upon to make the tool more user-friendly, particularly for linemen.

Durability and Maintenance

Over the years, I’ve used various crimpers, and durability is always a concern. The Milwaukee 6T Utility Crimper has held up well under frequent use. Its weather-protected electronics and robust build inspire confidence that this tool can withstand the rigors of fieldwork. The built-in reporting and diagnostics capabilities, enabled by the ONE KEY™ system, are also useful for preventive maintenance, allowing me to address any issues before they become significant problems.

Versatility

One of the aspects I appreciate most about this crimper is its versatility. The tool can accommodate various heads, including those for crimping, cutting, and pressing, making it a multi-functional asset in my toolkit. The quick head change mechanism is straightforward and efficient, minimizing downtime and allowing for seamless transitions between different tasks. For instance, I’ve found it particularly useful for crimping O and D die taps as well as cutting 466 ACSR.

Battery Life

The tool is powered by an 18V lithium-ion battery, part of Milwaukee’s M18 system. The battery life is commendable, and I can usually get through a full day of work on a single charge. The tool comes with a 2-year battery warranty, which is reassuring, considering the demanding nature of the tasks it’s used for.

Limitations

Despite its many strengths, the 6T Utility Crimper does have its limitations. During my apprenticeship, I’ve encountered issues when working with higher primary voltages, particularly 19.9kV. The tool seems to struggle and even short-circuit at this voltage level, which is a significant drawback if you’re working with such high voltages regularly. This issue seems to be related to the internal computer system, as other Milwaukee tools, like their impact driver, don't face the same problem at these voltages.

Another limitation is the tool's compatibility with dies. There have been instances where obtaining the necessary dies from Milwaukee has been challenging, leading to downtime and decreased productivity. This is an area where Milwaukee could improve its customer support and supply chain.

Conclusion

The Milwaukee 6T Utility Crimper Kit has proven to be a reliable, high-performing tool with several innovative features that make crimping tasks more efficient and less physically demanding. Its adaptive pressure control system, fast crimping speed, and versatile head options are significant advantages. However, it does have its shortcomings, particularly with higher voltage applications and some ergonomic issues.

Would I recommend this tool? For most linemen and electricians dealing with standard voltage levels, absolutely. Its reliability, speed, and versatility make it a valuable addition to any professional toolkit. However, if your work frequently involves high primary voltages, you may want to consider other options or ensure you have backup tools at your disposal. Overall, the Milwaukee 6T Utility Crimper Kit is a robust, efficient tool that can significantly enhance productivity and ease of use in the field.