Electrical Projects Many homes have so-called "home barbering kits" which contain electric hair clippers. Many different blade configurations are available but all of them work on a similar principle. A movable upper blade assembly is attached to the armature assembly, and as the armature vibrates, hair is clipped by being caught between the stationary lower blade assembly and the moving upper blade assembly.

Electrically, the unit is extremely simple. A continuity test from one side of the male plug to the other (with the switch on) will indicate a broken wire or open field coil. When connected to the line through a wattmeter or ammeter, the clippers should use in the neighborhood of 7 to 13W.

Hair clippers vibrate more than most other appliances, and for this reason you should always check for loose or missing parts, screws, etc. when servicing them. Lubricate moving parts and sliding surfaces lightly—no one wants his hair to smell like a refinery.

As clippers become older, the moving parts—particularly in the blade assembly—exceed their tolerances. The clippers begin to sound "rough" and they may pull the hair rather than cut it. Although there is an adjustment range to some blade assemblies, you'll probably have to change parts with worn surfaces.



Home > Electrical Projects > Repairs > Electric Hairclippers

October 13, 2008