Pipe cutters are used by plumbers to cut pipes (and sometimes other round rigid tubes like aluminium bars) to the desired length.
A handheld or tubing pipe cutter consists of two wheels (a sharp wheel and an anvil) that can be adjusted to match the circumference of the tube that needs to be cut. The wheel is locked in place, and then the anvil is brought down onto the wheel, which is then turned around the pipe to cut it. Larger pipe cutters can also be attached to a workbench or other surface for more stability. This type of pipe cutter is generally used for larger diameter pipes. The tubing cutter consists of a small wheel that is rotated around the tube to be cut. This type of cutter is better suited for smaller diameter pipes. Pipe cutters can be manual or powered (electric or hydraulic). Manual pipe cutters are usually less expensive, but they can be more difficult to use and require more strength to operate. Powered pipe cutters are easier to use and don't require as much strength, but they are more expensive. Pipe cutter types are suited to the material they are designed to cut. Examples of pipe material types: PVC pipe, plastic pipe, copper pipe, brass pipe, steel pipe and aluminium pipe.
A pneumatic pipe cutter is a pipe cutter powered by compressed air to make it easier for the user to operate. It consists of a cutting wheel that can be rotated around the pipe, which is locked in place with the anvil. A pneumatic pipe cutter generally uses compressed air at 30 to 40 psi. There are two types of pneumatic pipe cutters: piston-type and ram-type.
Ram type has 2 pistons with jaws on them, so it cuts with pressure from both sides of the wheel. When cutting larger pipes, sometimes ram-type might not be able to generate enough force so piston-type may be needed as well (which only uses 1 piston). Ram type is more popular than piston type.
This type is more compact and lightweight, but it also has a small cylinder that has high-pressure air in it. It usually gives a cleaner cut than ram-type models. However, the only drawback of this is the noise level when it is in use, which is significantly higher. So ram type is more popular than piston type. Pneumatic pipe cutter requires an airflow compressor to operate, so this machine will be heavier compared to electric or hydraulic ones (which don't need any compressed air). The weight of a pneumatic pipe cutter can get up to 23 kg, but some lighter models are available on the market as well.
To use a pipe cutter, first measure and mark the pipe where you want to cut it, usually a few centimetres from the ends of the pipe. Slip the blade of the cutter over the pipe and tighten the knob on top as far as it will go. Hold on to the pipe and rotate it around the cutter blade. Keep rotating until the blade has gone all the way around the pipe. If you're not sure if you've cut all the way through, try wiggling the pipe; if it moves, keep cutting. When you're done, loosen the knob and remove the cutter.
If you’re cutting a copper plumbing pipe in a tight space, you might need to use a pair of pliers for extended grip.If you're cutting a metal pipe, make sure to wear eye protection as a barrier from flying debris. Also, put gloves on to protect your hands from the sharp blade.
No, but it can help to smooth the cut marks. If you have a metal file, use it to remove any jagged edges. If you don't have a file, use coarse sandpaper to smooth the edges. If you're using a pipe cutter to cut plastic pipe, you don't need to file or sand the pipe ends. The blade on the cutter will leave a smooth edge. If you're using a pipe cutter to cut metal pipe, you should file or sand the pipe ends. The blade on the cutter may leave a sharp edge that could cause injury. File or sand the edge until it's smooth. After cutting the pipe, make sure to clean off any debris from the cuts. Use a wire brush, steel wool, or sandpaper to remove any metal shavings or plastic bits. If there is any binding agents or glue on the pipe, use a solvent to remove it. Filing and cleaning are important for copper pipes before applying the material that seals pipe junctions and prevents any leaks. Make sure that the inside of the tube is smooth, any roughness can affect the flow of the fluid inside the pipe, or cause the wires' insulation to wear off.
There are a few things to keep in mind when using a hacksaw.
Make sure the blade is sharp - if it's not sharp, it won't cut the pipe
Use a fine-tooth blade for metal pipes and a coarse tooth blade for PVC/CPVC pipes
Always use safety goggles when cutting pipes to protect your eyes from flying debris
Hold the pipe firmly against the saw table
Use a vice
The standard type is made for pipes 1/2 inch to 2-1/4 inches in diameter. A non-standard pipe cutter is used for larger pipes than 2-1/4 inches. There are three types of cutting blades:
A fixed blade that can cut through any material
Some have interchangeable blades for different kinds of materials
Some have adjustable blades, which allow you to choose between two cutting angles such as one for plastic and the other for metal
Also, the choice of pipe cutting tools can depend on plumbing pipes material, for example:
Hacksaw for PVC pipe
Copper tubing cutter for copper pipe to have a clean cut
Proper pressure means you should apply just enough pressure on the handle so that the handles don't move up or down during the cutting process. It will help prevent damage to the cutter and make it easier to cut the pipe.
You rotate the pipe cutter around the pipe. It requires more rotations according to pipe size, wall thickness, sharpness of the cutting blade, and pipe material. With a thick iron pipe, the pipe cutting wheel will rotate into the groove cut in the tube to create a clean-cut circle. If you need a stronger hold on the pipe, try using pliers.