Cembre RHC131 Hydraulic Presshead For LV & HV Cable Lugs Up To 400sqmm



CEMBRE RHC131 HYDRAULIC CRIMPING HEAD

Product Code: RHC131
The Cembre RHC131 is a high-performance 130kN hydraulic crimping head designed for installing electrical connectors on conductors up to 400mm². Featuring an open C-head design, compatibility with standard 130kN die sets, and a male quick-release coupling with automatic locking, the RHC131 is ideal for demanding cable termination and connection applications when paired with a 700 bar hydraulic pump.
Technical Specifications
Die Set Options
Key Benefits
Applications
Maintenance & Safety
Product Overview
The Cembre RHC131 develops a nominal crimping force of 130kN and uses the standard die set compatible with other 130kN tools and heads, making it a versatile option for utility, contractor and industrial cable work.
Cembre RHC131 is a hydraulic crimping head engineered for the installation of electrical connectors on conductors from 10mm² to 400mm².
This hydraulic crimping head features an open C-head configuration to simplify positioning around connectors and conductors. The head is supplied complete with a male quick-release coupling with automatic locking for secure connection to the hydraulic hose and pump.
RHC131 presshead will accept die sets common to Cembre 130kN hydraulic crimping tools.
For operation, the RHC131 must be combined with a hydraulic pump with a maximum working pressure of 700 bar. It supports multiple crimping geometries including hexagonal, oval, indent and radial profiles to suit a wide range of connector types.
Compact in design at 234 x 129 x 76mm, the RHC131 is suitable for professional cable jointing, substation works and electrical installation projects where reliable and repeatable crimping performance is essential.
Contact our trusted experts to place an order or request technical advice for the Cembre RHC131 hydraulic crimping head. Thorne & Derrick supply hydraulic crimping tools, pumps, cable accessories and cable jointing equipment for UK and export projects.
Technical Specifications
Cembre RHC131 Hydraulic Crimping Head
User Instructions
| Operation Stage | User Instructions |
| Connection | • Connect the male quick-release coupling securely to a compatible hydraulic hose and pump.
• Ensure the hydraulic system used does not exceed 700 bar working pressure. |
| Die Selection | • Select the correct die set for the connector and conductor size.
• Use standard dies suitable for 130kN Cembre-compatible tools and heads. |
| Positioning | • Open the C-head around the connector and conductor assembly.
• Check that the connector is aligned correctly before applying pressure. |
| Crimping Cycle | • Operate the hydraulic pump until the crimp is completed.
• Follow the recommended crimping sequence for the connector type being installed. |
| Disconnection | • Release hydraulic pressure before disconnecting the head.
• Clean and store the tool after use to maintain performance. |
Die Set Options
The Cembre RHC131 hydraulic crimping head is compatible with standard 130kN die sets used across Cembre pressheads and hydraulic crimping tools.
A wide range of die set options is available for crimping electrical connectors and cable lugs across LV and HV cable applications up to 400sqmm.
Compatible die sets are available for different conductor sizes, connector types and crimping profiles including hexagonal, oval, indent and radial compression requirements.
For technical guidance on selecting the correct dies for your connector and conductor size, contact Thorne & Derrick for product support and application advice.
Maintenance & Safety
Some Fault Diagnosis Tips
| Problem | Solution |
| The head does not operate when connected to the pump. | Check that the quick-release coupling is fully locked and that the hydraulic pump is functioning correctly. |
| The crimp is incomplete or inconsistent. | Verify the correct die set is fitted and confirm the connector and conductor size are within the 10-400mm² operating range. |
| Hydraulic performance seems weak. | Inspect the hydraulic pump, hose and coupling for leaks, trapped air or pressure loss. |
| The head is difficult to position on the connector. | Confirm the connector type and die arrangement are suitable and use the open C-head correctly for access. |
Routine Care
- Keep the hydraulic crimping head clean and free from dirt, dust and metal debris.
- Inspect the coupling and contact surfaces before and after use.
- Store the tool in a clean, dry case to protect it during transport and storage.
- Use only compatible dies, pumps and hydraulic accessories.
Note: Always use the tool with a compatible hydraulic system and follow the manufacturer’s operating instructions. Never exceed the maximum rated pressure.
Cleaning & Storage Of The Cembre RHC131
The Cembre RHC131 is a robust professional crimping head that requires limited daily maintenance. Ensure optimum performance by following these actions:
- Wipe down the body and working surfaces after every use with a clean cloth.
- Keep the quick-release coupling protected from contamination.
- Store the RHC131 safely in its case or protective packaging to avoid impact damage.
- Arrange periodic inspection and maintenance where required for heavily used tools.
Warnings
- Do not use the hydraulic head with pumps exceeding 700 bar working pressure.
- Ensure the coupling is locked before pressurising the system.
- Keep hands clear of moving and compression areas during crimping.
- Use only correctly matched dies and approved accessories.
- Release hydraulic pressure fully before disconnecting the tool.
Benefits
The Cembre RHC131 hydraulic crimping head provides dependable performance for professional electrical connector installation:
- 130kN nominal crimping force
- Suitable for electrical connectors up to 400mm²
- Open C-head design for easier access and positioning
- Compatible with standard die sets used on other 130kN tools and heads
- Supports hexagonal, oval, indent and radial crimping geometries
- Male quick-release coupling with automatic locking
- Compact dimensions for easier handling on site
- Suitable for use with hydraulic pumps up to 700 bar
- Designed for utility, contractor and industrial electrical applications
- CE and UKCA marked
➜ For Cembre electrical connections, see Cable Crimps, Lugs & Connectors
Applications
✔ Installing compression cable lugs and connectors on conductors up to 400mm²
✔ LV, MV and HV cable termination and jointing projects
✔ Utility, industrial and infrastructure electrical works
✔ Workshop and site-based hydraulic crimping operations
✔ Electrical panel building and heavy-duty power connection tasks
✔ Maintenance, repair and upgrade works using compatible hydraulic pumps and dies