How To Cut Copper Pipes ?

Most homeowners fail to cut the plumbing pipes in the right manner. Incorrect cutting operation leads to an unsuccessful plumbing project and calls for unwanted expenses. Wrong apprehension of the project requirements is responsible for such a scenario. Hence, it is very important to learn the basics of cutting plumbing pipes beforehand.

As far as the cutting of the plumbing pipes is concerned, it can be accomplished by even a novice. Most households use the PVC pipes in their plumbing setups. Such pipes are tender enough to be handled by the beginners. However, the situation reverses when it comes to the cutting of the copper pipes. Copper pipes are more stiff and stringent than the plastic pipes. Moreover, their cutting operation often leads to bruises and nicks on the body. Make sure that you carry the required tools before kicking off the operation.

Make some general calculations before commencing the cutting operation. Determine the exact length of copper pipe that needs to be removed. The length of the pipe connectors and other associated fittings adds up to the overall length. For experimental purposes, a length of about 12 inches could be left as a margin. Use plumbing tape to mark the area specified. Take out the pipe cutter from the kit along with your safety gloves and goggles.

Use your one hand to hold the pipe from under and other hand to hold the cutter tool. Keep the other hand away from the cutter blade.

The knob located on the body of the cutter tool controls the sharpness of the cutter blade. Use low sharpness for the flexible pipes and high sharpness for the rigid copper pipes. It is always advisable to start off the operation with a low sharpness of the blade. Initiate the operation along the tagged line only.

Rotate the cutter only a half-turn at first. If the blade loosens up a bit then turn the knob down. The screwing of the knob tightens the cutter again. Repeat the same rotation with a quarter-turn only.

Keep doing the same to achieve the desired results.

Remove the cut pipe from the fixture and observe the inner side of the depleted length of existing pipe. Clean the inside of the pipe with a piece of cloth.