Choosing the Right Crimping Tool for Demanding Worksites | Lawson Products
How to Choose the Right Crimping Tool for Demanding Worksites
When you're out on a job site, the last thing you need is a tool that can’t keep up. Whether you’re managing fleet maintenance, repairing hydraulic systems in remote locations, or servicing construction equipment mid-project, having the right crimping tool can mean the difference between uptime and costly delays.
At Lawson Products, we understand that MRO professionals need tools built for the real world, not just for the bench. Choosing a crimper isn’t about brand alone; it’s about performance, portability, and long-term reliability. That’s why tools like the Danfoss ET500 stand out—not just for what they can do, but for where and how they do it.
Not All Crimpers Are Created Equal
Not every job calls for the same kind of crimping tool. In maintenance and repair operations, the difference between getting it done and getting it done right often comes down to tool selection.
● Manual Crimpers
Lightweight and portable, these crimpers are a go-to for occasional, low-pressure tasks. They require significant hand strength and deliver variable precision depending on the operator’s experience.
● Electric Crimpers
An ideal crimper for repetitive work. These machines, whether benchtop or battery-powered, provide quick, consistent crimps with less physical effort. However, their portability may be limited, particularly in field service applications.
● Hydraulic Crimpers
The perfect balance between portability and power. These tools use hydraulic force, generated by a pump, to deliver high-pressure, high-precision crimps with minimal user fatigue. For job sites, service trucks, and remote fieldwork, a portable hydraulic crimper like the Danfoss ET500 becomes indispensable. It combines consistent output with the flexibility to work in elevated or hard-to-reach environments.
What to Look for in a Worksite-Ready Crimping Tool
When selecting a crimping tool for hydraulic hoses, technicians should prioritize a few critical features. Portability is at the top of the list.
● Can the tool be carried easily?
● Will it fit in tight spaces?
● Does it support field repair needs without requiring heavy lifting or awkward repositioning?
Equally important is versatility. The tool should handle a variety of hose types and sizes to meet the demands of different applications. The Danfoss ET500, for example, is compatible with braided hoses from sizes -4 through -12 and spiral hoses from -6 through -10. This level of flexibility supports a wide range of job site requirements, from construction to mining and fleet maintenance.
Ergonomics also plays a critical role, especially for technicians working long shifts or performing overhead tasks. A lighter tool reduces physical strain and helps maintain productivity throughout the day. The ET500 is approximately 33% lighter than comparable crimping machines, supporting safer lifting practices and aligning with OSHA’s guidelines on ergonomic lifting, which recommend evaluating not just tool weight, but also how, where, and how often it’s used.
Crimp Quality and the Importance of Consistency
In any hydraulic system, the strength and integrity of a crimp are non-negotiable. A quality crimp ensures leak-free, long-lasting performance under pressure. A subpar crimp, on the other hand, can lead to equipment failure, fluid loss, and safety risks.
But what defines a “good” crimp? It’s a combination of mechanical strength, sealing integrity, and repeatable precision. A quality crimping machine should deliver consistent, calibrated force, and align with both the hose and fitting specifications. The Danfoss ET500 supports this level of control through its engineered compatibility with hoses, end fittings, and optional power sources like electric or air/hydraulic pumps.
Lawson offers complete kits that package the ET500 with the right accessories—collets, spacer rings, hose types—so there’s no guesswork. For professionals who want peace of mind, consistency isn’t a feature. It’s a requirement.
For deeper insights, check out these resources on crimp testing and wire harness quality.
Why the Danfoss ET500 Is the Smart Choice
The Danfoss ET500 isn’t just a hydraulic crimper. This is a job-site-tested, technician-approved tool built for the real world. Designed to perform more than 10,000 crimps when maintained properly, it offers unmatched reliability in portable applications. Its compact design allows it to be carried by hand, even up a ladder, to crimp in-place hydraulic lines where mobility is critical.
Because every ET500 is part of a larger system, Lawson makes it easy to bundle your crimping tool with a compatible pump (manual, battery-powered, air/hydraulic, or electric), along with hose fittings, adapters, and accessories. It’s a tailored solution that supports your work, not a one-size-fits-all product.
And when it comes to wear and longevity, Lawson has your back. Proper lubrication is essential for metal-on-metal contact areas. Our AccroSeal PTFE Grease is designed specifically for high-pressure hydraulic tools like the ET500.
Want to know more about why grease matters? Read our blog on proper tool lubrication.
Where the Right Crimping Tool Makes the Biggest Difference
From fleet garages to mobile repair trucks, having the right crimping tool on hand saves time and eliminates the need for transporting equipment back to the shop. The Danfoss ET500 excels in:
● Construction sites, where in-place hose repair reduces equipment downtime
● Fleet maintenance, where uptime is everything
● Mining operations, where specialized hose assemblies are needed on-site
● Municipal and public works departments, which rely on tools that work across vehicles, lifts, and heavy equipment
If the job requires you to go to the equipment, not the other way around, you need a crimper that moves with you.
Maintenance Tips That Matter for Your Crimper
We’ve covered some crimper basics together, including how to pick out the right crimper for your worksite. But what about maintenance? Every tool has a lifespan. The goal is to maximize it. Routine maintenance of your hydraulic crimper ensures it performs at peak levels every time you use it. For the ET500, this means:
● Applying AccroSeal PTFE Grease to high-friction surfaces
● Cleaning the crimping head regularly to prevent metal shavings or debris buildup
● Inspecting for wear, misalignment, or hydraulic leaks
● Storing the unit in a dry, secure environment when not in use
By following these best practices, your ET500 can keep crimping reliably, job after job.
Crimp with Confidence
The right crimping tool doesn’t just crimp—it builds uptime, protects safety, and delivers results where they matter most. Whether you're managing a complex site or responding to a mid-job breakdown, tools like the Danfoss ET500 give you the confidence to keep moving.
Ready to crimp with confidence? Explore Lawson’s full range of crimping solutions and discover why the ET500 is the go-to tool for demanding worksites.