Crimp Height and Pull Force: Two Numbers That Define Terminal Quality

Crimp height and pull force describe the same crimp from two different directions. Crimp height is a dimensional measurement taken from the cross-section, while pull force measures how much load the finished termination withstands before it separates.

Because both values respond to the same press setting, they are usually monitored together. A change that moves crimp height out of its window often moves pull force as well, which is why production checks review the pair instead of a single reading.

Why both measurements matter

• Crimp height confirms the conductor is compressed into the correct range
• Pull force confirms the termination holds under mechanical load
• Cross-section inspection shows strand compaction and any voids
• Recording both values over time reveals press drift early

Reviewing the cross-section alongside the numbers helps separate a tooling issue from a wire or terminal variation, and it keeps the discussion focused on measurable process control.