Tool for applying wedge type electrical connectors to the conductors of electrical distribution networks

A tool for applying a wedge into an electrical connector, wherein the tool is fired by an expansion of gases from the detonation of a powder charge by a firing pin, said tool comprises:

• a hollow body having a ram member movably disposed within said body, said ram member is displaceable from a first position to a second position and back to said first position relative to said body;
• a mechanical locking device mounted on an end of said body, said mechanical locking device comprises a locking washer which is operable to frictionally engage a portion of said ram, thereby locking said ram against further displacement in said second position;
• and
• said ram is disposed through said washer and the ram is released by pushing said washer towards a spring of said mechanical locking device.

A tool for applying a wedge into an electrical connector, wherein the tool is fired by an expansion of gases from the detonation of a powder charge by a firing pin, said tool comprising:

• a hollow body having a ram member movably disposed within said body, said ram member is displaceable from a first position to a second position and back to said first position relative to said body;
• and
• a mechanical locking device mounted on said body, said mechanical locking device comprises a releasable locking member;
• said releasable locking member is movable relative to said body and is not part of said body, and the locking member is thereby operable to frictionally engage a portion of said ram, thereby positively retaining said ram against further displacement in said second position until said releasable locking member is released.