DMC News

The new and improved WA23B completes a full cycle 8-indent crimp in just 1.4 seconds, making it more than twice as fast as the previous model and faster than other similar products. Additionally, it is lighter and smaller making it easier to handle and store. The new dedicated gaging state simplifies calibration, while the ergonomically designed handle and push button offer enhanced comfort during prolonged use.

Like the previous model, the WA23B is capable of crimping machined contacts, uninsulated terminals, and uninsulated splices between 8-4/0 AWG. Both tools utilize interchangeable 23 type dies and locators, many of which meet stringent AS22520/23 standards for military-grade applications. Consistent with the prior model, the cycle control feature eliminates the possibility of incomplete and faulty crimps. Compared to other tools on the market, both tools depend on a single power supply.  

The WA23 set the standard for heavy-duty indent crimping, but the WA23B raises the bar making it a superior choice for professionals working in high-mix, high-volume environments. Customers may continue to purchase the original, WA23 (M22520/23-01) while DMC pursues Mil-spec qualification for the WA23B.  

For more information on the WA23B or to schedule a demo, visit our website at www.dmctools.com/wa23binfo

 

Our Tool Selection Search makes it easy to find the exact tooling you need. Simply enter the part number of your contact, terminal, splice, or coax connector, and the system will show you compatible tools—including crimp tools, insertion/removal tools, accessories, and more.

Let’s walk through a few examples so you can see how it works.

 

Search Tooling for Contacts

Start by visiting dmctools.com/toolsearch and select “Contacts.” For this demonstration, we’ll be looking at M39029 military contacts.

Search by either the full contact part number or by entering the BIN code. BIN stands for Basic Identification Number and can be determined by the colored bands on the wire barrel end of the contact.

In our example, the contact has the following bands: orange, blue, red. Use the dropdown menus to select these colors and click “Search.”

You'll then be shown:

• Helpful contact identification information
• Compatible crimp tools and accessories 
• Compatible insertion/removal tools
• Related connectors

It’s common to see multiple tool options, so you can choose based on your preferences or existing equipment. The crimp tool accessory is located to the right of the tool frame. 

 

Find Tools for Terminals

To search for a terminal, return to the Tool Selection Search and click “Terminals.” Select the base specification and dash number. This information is typically found on the packaging or your receipt.

For instance, we’ll use MS20659-116. After clicking “Search,” you’ll see:

• Wire size
• Terminal insulation details
• Plating and temperature rating
• All compatible crimp tools and accessories

 

Identify Tooling for Splices

Next, let’s look at splices. We’ll search for M81824/1-01. The system will display key technical data followed by compatible tools and dies. Like with contacts, multiple tool options are often available for a single splice.

 

Find Coax/RF Connector Tooling

For Coax/RF tooling, you’ll need:

• Full coax connector part number
• Inner contact number
• Outer ferrule number

In our demo, we’ll use M39012/56-010. After reviewing the tooling for the inner contact, return and search for the corresponding dash 50 number to find tooling for the outer ferrule.

 

Find Contacts for Your Connector

To find which contacts are compatible with your connector, use the connector search feature.

You’ll need the full part number, which is typically printed on the connector or available on the manufacturer’s data sheet. We’ll use a common MIL-DTL-38999 Series III connector.

Select it from the dropdown and click “Search.” Use the data sheet to locate:

• Shell size
• Insert arrangement

From there, you’ll be able to see all contact sizes that fit your connector. Click the appropriate hyperlink to see compatible tooling for your contact size.

 

Whether you’re working with contacts, terminals, splices, or connectors, DMC’s Tool Selection Search can help you find the right tooling fast.

Try it now at dmctools.com/toolsearch

What is eVTOL Technology?

eVTOL aircraft are a new class of electric-powered vehicles designed to take off and land vertically, much like helicopters. However, they differ significantly in their reliance on electric propulsion, which reduces noise, increases energy efficiency, and eliminates carbon emissions. 

A key component of these aircraft is their high-reliability wiring systems, which serve as the backbone for power distribution and signal integrity. These advanced electrical networks ensure seamless communication between multiple rotors or fans to ensure safe flight.

As advanced air mobility evolves, companies like DMC will be at the forefront, providing the essential tools needed to build and maintain the wiring systems.  From crimping and stripping tools to innovative wire harness solutions, DMC provides the tooling necessary to support the next generation of air mobility.

The Benefits of eVTOLs for Advanced Air Mobility

1. Reduced Congestion – By utilizing vertical takeoff and landing capabilities, eVTOLs can bypass gridlocked roads, significantly cutting down commute times.
2. Sustainability – With electric propulsion, eVTOLs produce zero direct emissions, making them a greener alternative to traditional airplanes, helicopters, cars, buses, and trains.
3. Efficiency and Speed – eVTOLs can drastically reduce travel times, particularly for short- to medium-range commutes, making intercity and intracity travel more convenient.

Challenges to Overcome

Despite their potential, eVTOLs face several challenges before they become a mainstream transportation option:

1. Infrastructure Development – Cities will need to build "vertiports," designated takeoff and landing areas, to accommodate eVTOL traffic.
2. Regulatory Hurdles – Aviation authorities must establish safety regulations and air traffic management systems for eVTOL integration.
3. Battery Technology – Current battery limitations impact flight range and payload capacity, necessitating further advancements in energy storage.

The Role of Daniels Manufacturing Corporation

Ensuring the reliability and safety of electrical wiring systems in eVTOL is a top priority. DMC, plays a crucial role in supporting the infrastructure behind these cutting-edge aircraft. Precision wire prep tools, specialized military-qualified crimp tools, a variety of wire harness assembly and management solutions, as well as fly-away snd vertiport EWIS maintenance kits will help ensure that eVTOLs meet the highest standards of safety and performance.

Partner with DMC as you navigate the challenges of this new industry and see how we can help you achieve reliability in your wiring and efficiency in your tooling and maintenance functions. 

1. Lean Manufacturing Principles

Applying lean principles, such as 5S (Sort, Set in order, Shine, Standardize, Sustain), helps eliminate unnecessary steps and streamline workflow. Mapping out value streams and identifying bottlenecks allow manufacturers to optimize operations and improve overall efficiency.

2. Improved Tooling and Equipment

Using high-quality, precision tools is vital for the success of OEMs or wire harness shops supporting high-reliability industries such as aerospace. Tools such as DMC’s Twist-Strip, the AF8 crimp tool, and LaceLok^® provide faster and more reliable means of stripping complex wires, producing reliable crimps, and applying consistent bundling along harnesses.

3. Workforce Training and Certification

A well-trained workforce is essential for maintaining high production standards. Investing in training programs, such as Precision Electrical Termination Certification (PETC) or Safe-T-Cable Certification delivered by DMC, Snap-on, and the National Coalition of Certification Centers, ensures technicians are properly skilled in their trade. Certifications like these reduce errors, improve quality, and increase efficiency across the production process.

4. Enhanced Quality Control Measures

Integrating quality control checkpoints throughout production helps detect defects early, preventing costly rework. Utilizing advanced testing equipment, such as force pull and pull-to-fail tensile testers, ensures harness reliability before final installation. Contact retention testers also provide technicians with a means of checking the retention of contacts in electrical connectors.

5. Inventory and Supply Chain Optimization

Efficient inventory management reduces delays and material shortages. Implementing a just-in-time (JIT) approach ensures that components arrive precisely when needed, minimizing excess stock and reducing storage costs. Strengthening supplier relationships can also lead to better pricing and reliable material flow.

 

To summarize, efficiency in wire harness production is achieved through a combination of lean principles, advanced tooling, workforce training, quality control, and smart inventory management. By implementing these strategies, manufacturers can enhance productivity, reduce costs, and deliver high-quality products to meet the growing demands of their industries.

Crimp Tools: 

Among our list of most desired tools are our crimp tools. DMC^® specializes in designing and building application crimp tools for new and emerging markets. Our portfolio of crimp tools includes indent and form crimp tools as well as general maintenance tools (GMT). Many of our tools work in conjunction with interchangeable dies, eliminating the need for separate fixed-die crimp tools. DMC also has hundreds of turrets and positioners that accommodate a multitude of wire sizes and crimp depths. 

Without further ado, here are the crimp tools and accessories that were most popular in 2024:

• AF8: In first place is the original blue crimp tool that is recognizable across the world with virtually limitless application between 12 through 26 AWG.
• AFM8: A trusted favorite that accommodates most miniature and subminiature connector types that are widely used in electronic systems. The AFM8 accommodates wire sizes 20 through 32 AWG.
• TH1A: Our most popular turret head that adapts the M22520/1-01 (AF8^®) tool frame to several applications.
• HX4: The shiny gold tool known for its versatility with hundreds of die configurations that fulfill a variety of applications. The HX4 form crimp tool crimps sizes 26 to 10 AWG and is capable of crimping most coaxial and triaxial connectors, insulated and uninsulated terminals, wire splices, and some end caps.

Banding Solutions for EMI Protection: 

DMC’s banding tools were a popular product line in 2024. These tools set the standard in reliability for terminating electromagnetic interference (EMI) bands throughout mission-critical systems. DMC offers one-step and two-step banding tools and sells a variety of bands manufactured by companies listed on the M85049 QPL. 

In 2024, our top selling banding tools and bands were for .125” mini-bands.

• DBS-2200: The ultimate one-step banding tool built to SAE AS81306/1 specifications and designed to install .125” stamped bands.
• DBS-128-8: These low-profile and durable bands are .125” wide stamped and pre-coiled. These bands are compatible with the DBS-2200 banding tool.

LaceLok^®: 

LaceLok cable lacing fasteners were also a big hit in 2024. This product line is designed to replace cable ties and hand-tied lacing tape for secondary support of wire harnesses. The LaceLok system provides an ergonomic and consistent approach to cable bundling with unrivaled strength and superior performance than manual lacing and cable ties. Made of aerospace-grade materials, LaceLok features a small, rounded fastener and meta-aramid fiber lace. This combination of materials provides superior resistance to fuel, chemicals, abrasion, and extreme operating temperatures. 

Though new to the market, LaceLok was adopted by major OEMs, MROs and military depots in 2024.

• DLT-1100: This lightweight and efficient application tool for installing LaceLok cable lacing fasteners delivers consistent loop force and termination at 20lbs of applied tension.
• LF2-10NA1: The LF2-10NA1 is our #1 selling cable lacing fastener. It is 10 inches in length in the color white. Our cable lacing fasteners are available in various lengths and colors to suit different applications. It is constructed from non-abrasive, aerospace-grade meta-aramid fiber lace to ensure durability and reliability. It features a small, rounded fastener head, making it a safe and lightweight solution for aerospace cable management.

Safe-T-Cable^®: 

Safe-T-Cable is always a top-selling product! It is designed to prevent bolts, nuts, and other fasteners from loosening in environments with excessive heat and vibration. In addition to installing three times faster than lockwire, Safe-T-Cable also produces stronger and safer results. 

Out of the several tool and cable options the 3 below were the most popular!

• SCTR323: A manual Safe-T-Cable application tool with adjustable tension and features a 3 inch nose designed to install .032 Safe-T-Cable.
• C10-218PKG: This 321 stainless steel cable kit features a .032” diameter with a standard length of 18 inches. The kit contains 50 cable assemblies and 50 ferrules.
• C10-218JAPKG: Similar to the aforementioned product, C10-218JAPKG is an enhanced cable kit containing 50 self-looping cable assemblies and one cartridge of 50 ferrules. Self-looping jumper cable assemblies provide the user with a means of anchoring a single threaded fastener to almost any structure.

Insertion and Removal (I/R) Tools:

DMC offers a wide range of insertion and removal tools (I/R) to aid in the installation and extraction of contacts in connectors. A variety of styles are available to accommodate both front and rear release connectors. I/R tools are available with straight, joggled, angled, and offset tips in probe, spring-loaded probe, tweezer, and plier styles. 

DMC customers loved the following 3 military approved I/R tools in 2024:

• DAK20B: A probe style insertion tool that is compatible with size 20 contacts.
• DRK95-22MB: A tweezer style removal tool that is compatible with sizes 22M and 22D.
• DRK20B: A spring-loaded probe style removal tool that is compatible with size 20 contacts. 

Other Connector Assembly Tools: 

DMC also offers a complete line of connector assembly tools designed to hold, torque, and tighten backshells. Due to the complex nature of wiring systems, connector backshells are used to minimize potential interference. These delicate connectors and backshells require the right tooling to precisely tighten them without causing damage. 

The following 3 pliers and strap wrenches were among our customer favorites in 2024. 

• BT-SJ-509A: A high-performance mini soft jaw plier with a 30° angled head for easy access to the tightest places. These pliers also feature non-marring and replaceable jaw inserts.
• BT-BS-609: A standard strap wrench applies a uniform grip around connectors to prevent high pressure damage. This strap wrench accommodates connector shell diameters ranging from .50" - 2.50".
• BT-BS-610T: Our handle-less strap wrenchus are safe and effective for tough and delicate jobs. These smaller alternatives free up a significant amount of space when used in conjunction with a digital torque wrench to allow users to accurately torque the connector without having the handle obstruct their view or torquing ability. These wrenches are sold with a spare strap.

 

As 2024 comes to a close, these tools have proven to be game-changers in wire harness manufacturing and EWIS maintenance. We’re proud to be your trusted partner, delivering innovative solutions that empower your work and support your success. Here’s to continuing to equip you with the tools you love and rely on, year after year.

• MS23002-xx (DMC part number HD002-xx) dies designed to accommodate and secure insulated lugs/terminals with a confined crescent type crimp.
• MS90485-xx (DMC part number HD485-xx) dies for producing hex type crimps on  uninsulated copper lugs/terminals
• MS25442-xx (DMC part number HD442-xx) dies for crimping uninsulated aluminum lugs/terminals and splices.

 

The HD120: Manual Hydraulic Power

The HD120 is a robust manual hydraulic crimp tool. This features a two-stage hydraulic system that reduces the number of handle closures required, making it easier and faster to crimp large components. The tool includes an automatic pressure relief valve that prevents over-compression, while the automatic die retraction indicates when the crimp cycle is complete. This means no second-guessing when the job is finished.

Ease of use is also a key feature. The HD120’s 340-degree rotating head provides flexibility in confined spaces, making it highly functional in tight work areas. Padded handles add an extra layer of comfort, reducing strain on the operator during extended use. Plus, the hydraulic pump is factory-filled with biodegradable hydraulic fluid, eliminating the need for priming or bleeding. The HD120 is neatly packaged in a durable metal carrying case for portability and protection when stored.

 

The HDE120C: Battery-Powered Efficiency

The HDE120C is the battery hydraulic tool of this series. This tool enhances productivity with a quick full cycle of just 2 seconds and the provided batteries complete an average of 150 crimps per charge. What sets the HDE120C apart from others in this series are its smart digital features. Built-in technology tracks tool performance, usage, and crimp data, which can be accessed via an LED display or downloaded through an app. This level of data tracking allows for better management of tool maintenance and performance. 

Like the HD120, this tool features a two-stage hydraulic system, a 340-degree rotating head, and biodegradable hydraulic fluid.The HDE120C kit includes the tool itself, two 18 VDC 3.0 lithium-ion batteries, a charger, and a carrying case.

 

The TBHD1M: Remote Hydraulic Versatility

For more specialized applications, DMC offers the TBHD1M remote hydraulic crimp head. This tool is QPL approved and Mil-Qualified to MS25441-1 standards. The TBHD1M can be used hand-held or mounted on a BM-2A bench mount. It features a retractable spring plunger and is compatible with several hydraulic pumps. When bench mounted, this tool is virtually hands-free allowing operators to easily position components while actuating the tool with the foot operated pumps. 

• HPU11M Pneumatic Hydraulic Pump (MS25441-5 & AS5259/2-06)
• HPU13M Battery Pump (AS5259/2-04)
• HPU12M Hand Pump (AS5259/2-02)
• HPU15M Foot Pump (AS5259/2-03)

 

Whether you’re looking for the reliability of manual hydraulic tools, the speed and convenience of battery-powered crimping, or the specialized capability of a remote hydraulic crimp head, DMC’s 120 Series has you covered. Our tools provide unmatched performance for heavy-duty crimping needs with features designed for operator comfort and smart technology integration.

What is a Wire Stripper?

A wire stripper is a hand tool used to remove the insulation from electrical wires without damaging the metal conductor(s) inside. This process is essential for making electrical connections, as the exposed wire needs to be clean and free from insulation to ensure a proper connection. Wire strippers come in various styles and sizes, each tailored for different purpose.

Recommended Wire Stripping Tools:

 

Manual Strippers

DMC’s Twist-Strip^®

Twist-Strip is an  outer jacket wire stripper for M27500 twisted cable with extruded jackets. It is designed with a low-friction ball bearing and articulating arms that accommodate the non-circular nature of twisted shielded cable. This industry-changing tool far exceeds traditional razor blade methods that are time-consuming, increase risks of injury, and are imprecise.

 

 

Benefits of Twist-Strip:

• Adjustable
  • Interchangeable dies and depth control knobs create precise blade adjustments to accommodate 1-4 conductor cables as well as variations in the conductor shape and thickness.
• Precise
  • Cable tracks machined into dies create a controlled rotation as cable moves along the blades
  • Adjustable strip length rod allows for custom stripping lengths
• Safe
  • Concealed carbide blades eliminate risk of injury
  • Zero-friction ball bearing design provides ergonomic stripping that reduces operator fatigue
• Fast
  • Strips twisted shielded cable 3-5x faster than conventional methods

Stripmaster^® Wire Strippers

Stripmaster wire strippers are an aerospace industry standard. They provide tight tolerances and accommodate a variety of wire types. Several tool frames are available with a selection of die-type blades that accommodate varying wire sizes and conductor thicknesses. 

 

Benefits of Stripmaster Wire Strippers:

• Precise
  • Die-type blades provide a practical stripping solution for 30-10 AWG
• Ergonomic
  • All Stripmaster wire strippers feature cushioned comfort grip handles
  • Ergo Elite Stripmaster boasts a tilted wire stripping head that proves improved leverage and an unobstructed view for better wire positioning
• Variety
  • DMC offers Customer Stripmaster, Custom Stripmaster Lite, and Ergo Elite Stripmaster wire strippers
  • The same tool frame can be used with a variety of interchangable blades to best suit your application

Pneumatic Wire Strippers

WSP-1630, WSP-1014, and WSP-1626E

DMC's pneumatic wire strippers are the ultimate combination of performance and reliability. These wire strippers were developed in cooperation with major aerospace contractors to address the need for a reliable, simple to operate air powered solution for high-production environments. All WSP strippers are compatible with Stripmaster blades and accessories approved for AS5768.

Benefits of Pneumatic Wire Strippers:

• Ergonomic
  • Lightweight, compact, and simple to operate
  • Feature a rotatable head that allows for left or right-handed operation
• Fast
  • Fast actuation allows operators to prep wires at a rate that is unattainable with manual wire strippers
• Adjustable
  • Adjustable speed control allows the operator to regulate the speed of the tool by simply rotating the adjustment collar which is part of the air hose

Choosing the Right Wire Stripper is Critical

• It is important to identify your wire’s AS or mil-spec part number when selecting a tool/blade.
• Even if the blade covers the correct wire range it does not mean that it is meant for your wire.
• Using the wrong blade can cause damage to the insulation. 

Wire strippers are a vital tool for anyone performing work on electrical systems. They simplify the process of preparing wires for connections and ensure that your work is both safe and effective. DMC provides many resources to aid in the selection of the right tool including our cross reference chart located on our website and instruction manuals provided with each tool. For more information on any of the tools mentioned, visit our website www.dmctools.com or reach out to us at 407-855-6161 or dmc@dmctools.com. 

Immerse yourself in the latest innovations covering design and automation, processing, testing, guided assembly, and fault detection. Join us for formal presentations and exclusive one-on-one sessions. Don’t miss this opportunity to discover what’s new and exciting in the field and connect with professionals shaping the future of wire harness technology.

DMC’s information and training sessions:

• Tuesday, October 8th at 10:15am
  • LaceLok^®: Revolutionizing Cable Management with an Efficient and Reliable Solution Learn about the benefits of using Lacelok, installation techniques, and best practices.
• Wednesday, October 9th at 9:15am
  • Precision in Practice: Component-to-Tooling Selection Training

This event is free to attend! Find more information and register here!

 

DMC’s acquisition of MCD-Tools allows DMC to form DMC Europe GmbH in order to provide a direct presence in the European market. DMC’s investment into a direct presence in Europe reinforces its commitment to offer the very best quality, service, and pricing to its European customers. Integrating the expertise and local resources of MCD-Tools allows DMC to more effectively serve its European customers within the aerospace, defense, rail, and other various markets.

The acquisition will ultimately allow DMC to provide solutions and strengthen customer relationships more than ever via faster lead times, local technical support from DMC employees, and the best possible pricing on DMC’s industry leading mil-spec tooling. 

Erik Francoforte, General Manager of DMC, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, stating, "This strategic move aligns with our commitment to providing world-class tooling solutions to our customers globally. By combining our strengths, and nurturing MCD-Tools’ established relationships, we are well-positioned to exceed the expectations of our European customers and further solidify our position as a leader in the mil-spec tooling industry."

 

About Daniels Manufacturing Corporation (DMC):

DMC is a globally recognized provider of precision tooling and manufacturing solutions, catering to various industries requiring high-reliability electrical systems. With a steadfast commitment to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction, DMC has earned a reputation as a trusted partner for companies seeking reliable and advanced tooling solutions.

For more information about DMC, please visit www.dmctools.com

See the press release on PRNewswire.

 

Examples of FOD:

• Loose Fasteners: Bolts, nuts, screws, or rivets that have become detached from aircraft or ground support equipment.
• Runway Debris: Rocks, gravel, pavement fragments, or even items dropped from aircraft.
• Tools and Equipment: Tools, equipment, consumables, or parts inadvertently left on runways, taxiways, or maintenance areas.
• Plastic Bags and Debris: Lightweight debris like plastic bags, paper, or other trash can be blown onto runways or sucked into aircraft engines.
• Wildlife: Animals such as birds, rodents, or larger mammals can stray onto airport grounds and pose a FOD risk if they come into contact with aircraft during takeoff or landing.

Effects of FOD:

FOD can impact a flight at any point in the journey, from taxi, takeoff, mid-flight, and landing. Even tiny debris can cause extensive damage to aircraft engines, the landing gears, or other critical systems that can lead to catastrophic failure and possibly injuries/death. 

Repairing damage caused by FOD can be expensive and time-consuming. Aircraft maintenance crews must inspect and repair affected components, leading to costly repairs and downtime for the aircraft (A.O.G.).

How to Help Prevent FOD:

By working to prevent FOD you minimize the risk of possible catastrophic situations. 

1. Provide regular cleaning and maintenance of work areas, runways, and construction sites.
2. Educate employees on the dangers of FOD and implement protocols.
3. Utilize tools like Daniels Manufacturing Corporation’s Safe-T-Cable®  to prevent components from loosening in high vibration environments. Safe-T-Cable is an approved alternative to lockwire which when removed produces less scrap. The Safe-T-Cable system also retains excess cable on installation.
4. Utilize tool kits with designated spaces for each item to help keep track of tools and components during installation and repair jobs. DMC’s maintenance tool kits contribute to FOD prevention efforts and promote operator efficiency.

Always Keep FOD in Mind:

FOD’s potential impact on aviation safety and efficiency cannot be understated. From costly aircraft damage to serious safety risks for passengers and personnel, FOD poses a large challenge for the aviation industry. Individuals and organizations can prioritize education, training, and innovative tooling to minimize FOD to ensure safer skies for all.

 

Since our founding in 1949, we have been committed to delivering innovative tooling solutions and unparalleled service. We have been at the forefront of the tool manufacturing industry, continually pushing boundaries, and setting new standards. From humble beginnings in a small workshop to becoming a global leader in tooling solutions, our trajectory has been nothing short of extraordinary. 

Over the past seven and a half decades, we have achieved numerous milestones that speak volumes of our resilience and determination. From pioneering groundbreaking technologies to expanding our product portfolio to serve diverse industries, every step of our journey has been guided by a relentless pursuit of excellence. Our dedication to quality and innovation has allowed us to evolve and thrive in the dynamic markets we serve.

DMC was founded by Bill Daniels and today his son and our company President, George Daniels, continues to lead the way. 

“It has been my privilege to lead a company that has played such an integral role in the creation of every aircraft, defense program, space mission, submarine or surface vessel that exists in the Western world.” 

-George Daniels

We invite you to explore some of the rich history and milestones that have shaped DMC into the industry leader it is today:

DMC was incorporated in Pontiac, Michigan in 1949, serving major industries including missile, aircraft, and electronics with precision machine parts and assemblies. In 1965, DMC produced the MS3191-4 to replace earlier mil-standard crimp tools, and the following year expanded globally with an authorized distributor in the United Kingdom. By 1971, DMC became an authorized supplier of tools for the US military and was listed on the DOD's Qualified Products List. In 1984, DMC merged with Balmar and established headquarters in Orlando, Florida. In 1992, DMC developed Safe-T-Cable, now the standard tool for safety cable application. In 2016 we partnered with NC3 to offer Precision Electrical Termination courses at vo-tech schools nationwide. In 2017, DMC acquired Twist-Strip and made substantial improvements before bringing it to market. In 2020 LaceLok® was acquired and enhanced to provide a revolutionary solution for applying secondary wire harness support. This year, 2024, we celebrate our 75th anniversary!

In addition to the previously mentioned marketplaces that are known to be selling these knockoff Mil-Spec crimp tools we are now aware these tools are also being sold on  Walmart.com, Alibaba, eBay, Grainger, Allied, and Graybar.

Jonard Tools, a retailer and manufacturer based out of New York, USA has been identified as producing and selling these tools as M22520/1-01 Military Grade Precision Crimpers. Though many of these knockoffs bear the M22520 & M81969 Mil-Spec number, DMC logo, DMC part numbers, DMC CAGE code (11851) and appear almost identical to genuine DMC-qualified products as listed on the Qualified Products Database (QPD) and Qualified Products List (QPL) it is essential to know that these counterfeit products are not approved or qualified under MIL DTL 22520 or AS81969 and other specifications that apply. 

HOW TO AVOID KNOCKOFFS

• Avoid purchasing DMC products from unauthorized sources. Authorized sources can provide proof proof of authenticity.
• Be careful when buying crimp tools on marketplaces such as Walmart.com, Alibaba, eBay, Grainger, Allied, and Graybar
• Avoid purchasing crimp tools from Amazon, unless you are purchasing from the DMC Store or Daniels Manufacturing Corporation Storefront
• Avoid purchasing items marked as used or refurbished. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is
• Contact us if you have a question about purchasing one of our products

KNOWN RETAILERS OF KNOCKOFFS

• Jonard Tools
• JRready (Jiaxing Jingrui Instrument & Equipment Co., Ltd.)
• JRD Tools
• IWISS Tools Co., Ltd. (ZHEJIANG IWISS ELECTRIC CO., LTD)
• Precise Tool (A cobranded tool with JR Ready)
• US Tool LLC
• Nabroco Tools & Technologies Pvt. Ltd.
• Bombay Tool Centre 

Any information pertaining to knockoff products that you can provide will help our efforts. If you suspect that you have purchased a knockoff item, please report it to us by contacting us at 407-855-6161 or dmc@dmctools.com

Hand-tied lace and plastic cable ties have been the primary options for wire harness secondary support for over 50 years. Unfortunately, both methods present significant ergonomic, safety, and consistency risks. Hand-tied lace often causes fatigue and repetitive motion injuries. It is also often applied inconsistently as the applied tension can vary from operator to operator or across the duration of an operator's shift. Alternatively, cable ties offer a large profile that can damage adjacent cables and sharp edges after the excess cable tie is cut off. Plastic cable ties are also often less resistant to temperature range and various common chemicals. For these and other reasons, the US military has approved LaceLok, but prohibited the use of plastic cable ties on aerospace wire harnesses per the Joint Services Manual NAVAIR 01-1A-505-1.

LaceLok combines the ease of cable ties with the abrasion and chemical resistance of lacing tape. The LaceLok system consists of LaceLok and the LaceLok Installation Tool. LaceLok is constructed with the same Nomex® lacing tape used in hand-tied lace. The Nomex lace is attached by aramid fiber thread to an ultra-high temperature thermoplastic fastener head. LaceLok can withstand extreme temperatures from -76°F to 500°F and is resistant to hydraulic fluid, jet fuel, lubricating oil, and isopropyl alcohol. LaceLok is offered in a variety of lengths from 6" to 24" long and can be wrapped once, twice, or three times around wire bundles to provide tensile strengths of 55 lbs to 165 lbs.

Using LaceLok is simple and ergonomic. The user wraps LaceLok around the bundle and squeezes the trigger 2-3 times to tighten, lock, and terminate the fastener. The resulting loop force is controlled by the fastener, not the user.