Two of the last steps in medium voltage cable prep are shaping the ends of the insulation and semi-con. A chamfer puts a bevel on the cut edge. Penciling tapers the insulation down toward the conductor. Ripley UtilityTool makes a tool for each. This guide sorts them by cable size, voltage and insulation. Your splice or termination instructions say which shape you need, so check them first. For the earlier steps, see our jacket removal guide and semi-con removal guide.

Ripley chamfering and penciling quick pick

Chamfering tools

SCC series

• A chamfering tool for the semi-con edge on primary underground cable, made for semi-con 25 to 80 mils thick.
• Cable OD range 0.76 to 2.0 in. The SCC 2 fits 1.4 to 2.0 in over the insulation and semi-con. Part number 28224-2, replacement blade 28230.
• Recessed blades protect the user and the blade. The SCC 2 weighs 5.5 oz.

IC series

• Cuts a 45 degree bevel about 0.125 in long on XLPE insulation, 15 to 35 kV primary underground cable.
• The IC 1 (part number 34760) fits 0.65 to 1.26 in over the insulation or semi-con. The IC 2 (34825) fits 1.25 to 1.875 in. Both use replacement blade 34766.

US10

• For XLPE and EPR insulation, 15 to 35 kV, cable 0.55 to 2.36 in OD over the insulation or semi-con.
• Comes as a 30 degree tool (US10-7000, blade US10-7500) or a 45 degree tool (US10-7001, blade US10-7501).
• Chamfer depth is factory set at 0.075 in and adjusts from 0 to 0.150 in. A clamping system adjusts and locks onto the insulation, and the compact design works in tight spaces.

Penciling tools

WS 7 and WS 8 series

These taper 5 to 35 kV URD cable insulation without damaging the conductor. They work on XLPE, EPR and PE insulation at the end of the cable. Pick the model by insulation diameter and taper length.

The tools are 5 in long and weigh 1 lb. They work with the SW 2 series ratchet wrench for extra turning leverage. The 10921 blade is also listed as the CB 284 replacement blade in our store.

WS 49 series

• Combines stripping and penciling in one tool for 5 kV L-824 Type C airport lighting cable.
• The WS 49 (part number 27700) is for #8 AWG. The WS 49H (27712) is for #4 and #6 AWG. Both strip 0.75 in and pencil 0.5 in.
• Bushings fit cable diameters of 0.395, 0.42, 0.445 and 0.49 in. A guarded blade helps prevent injury.

How to choose

1. Check the instructions for your splice or termination. They tell you whether you need a chamfer, a pencil or both.
2. Measure the cable OD over the insulation or semi-con, and match it to the tool range.
3. Confirm the insulation (XLPE, EPR or PE) and the voltage class.
4. For a bevel on 15 to 35 kV insulation, use the IC for XLPE or the US10 for XLPE and EPR. Use the US10 if you need a 30 degree angle.
5. For penciling, pick the model by insulation diameter and the taper length your kit needs.
6. Order replacement blades with the tool.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a chamfer and a pencil?

A chamfer is a bevel cut on the edge of the insulation or semi-con. Penciling tapers the insulation down toward the conductor over a longer length, such as 1.5 or 2.5 in on the WS 7 and WS 8.

Which chamfer tool gives a 30 degree angle?

The US10-7000. The US10-7001 and the IC series cut 45 degrees.

Can one tool chamfer both semi-con and insulation?

No. The SCC is for the semi-con edge. The IC and US10 chamfer the insulation.

What does the WS 8 cover that the WS 7 does not?

The WS 8 fits larger insulation (1.2 to 1.9 in) and conductors from 300 to 1000 kcmil. The WS 7 covers #8 AWG to 350 kcmil.

Do I need a wrench with the penciling tools?

No, but the WS 7 and WS 8 work with the SW 2 series ratchet wrench if you want extra turning leverage.

Where to buy Ripley chamfering and penciling tools

Powertech Associates and Utility Power Supply Company carry the Ripley UtilityTool line. Browse the Ripley chamfering tools, penciling tools or all Ripley tools in our store, or contact Powertech Associates with your cable type and size and we will match the tool.

Last updated: November 2026.