how to cut copper pipe

Tubing Cutter to Cut Copper When used properly, the tubing cutter ensures a clean, straight cut through the copper pipe. Tighten the cutter as you rotate it around the pipe. Attempt this method only if you’re working on a non-plumbing project—or are trapped in your home and cannot pick up another tool from the store. Though you have to purchase a pipe slice tailored to the diameter of your pipe (even multiple slices, if you plan to cut pipes of different dimensions), this is ultimately the best tool to use when you’re working with thinner copper diameters of ¼ inch or so. Doing this is fairly straightforward. As I said in the introduction this little tool is AWESOME. How to Cut Copper Pipe (5 Amazing Tools) -- by Home Repair … Compression fittings are available in different sizes. Before putting a hand-sawn pipe in a plumbing fixture, use a round file to smooth the pipe interior. The first step is to cut the tubing to the right length (remember that pipe and water tubing are two distinctly different types of plumbing materials). Most of them are sized and … We use cookies to make wikiHow great. Expert advice from Bob Vila, the most trusted name in home improvement, home remodeling, home repair, and DIY. Position your copper pipe in the pipe cutter and tighten the blade just enough so it is snug—any tighter and you may bend the pipe. By using our site, you agree to our. If you don't have these tools, you can always use a hacksaw. Though a hacksaw will cut through the copper pipe, it’s difficult to hold the pipe firmly enough to get a clean cut with a hacksaw, no matter how strong you are. If you really can’t stand to see another ad again, then please consider supporting our work with a contribution to wikiHow. This is all the information I … One of the biggest problems is after you have already gone through the problem of cutting the copper pipe. Step 1: Use the measuring tape to measure the length that you need to cut. Alternatively, you can cut a piece of sandpaper into a 1 in (2.5 cm) by 5 in (13 cm) strip. AutoCut Copper Pipe Cutting Tool. This tool is cheap only in terms of the price and it does the job perfectly well. This line will be a guide as you cut into the pipe. The cutter is then turned fully around the circumference of the pipe where it will score the pipe cutting into it slightly. A small circular blade on the other side of the cutter's jaws tightens to the pipe's other side. Been looking for some sort of cable saw that would cut copper, but no luck. For larger pipes, you can use a tubing cutter that you attach to the pipe. This article has been viewed 69,101 times. 2. This lightweight material looks great and is easy to cut without cumbersome tools. Using your regular copper pipe cutter . A pipe cutter, shown below, is placed over the pipe and the handle, or knob, at the top is turned clockwise until it closes down onto the copper. Once the copper pipe is cut look inside the piece at the cut end. A hacksaw does cut the copper evenly or cleanly. Worker cuts the copper pipe with a brass pipe trimming; Workmen in blue overalls cutting a pipe with a saw symbolizing laborers, manual labor and DIY; Closeup of a plumber using a hacksaw to cut down some pipes; Air conditioner repairman cut the copper pipe; Air conditioner repairman cut the copper pipe; Without a shadow of a doubt, the easiest way to cut copper pipe is to use a pipe slice. Making a precise cut is important when installing … Begin cutting the pipe and ensure you are continuously moving the blade site to side. Slide the pipe through the pipe cutter so the groove aligns with the blade, and tighten it once more until it’s just snug. Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. I got it cut partially with my sawsall, but cannot cut it thru. You agree that BobVila.com may process your data in the manner described by our Privacy Policy. Depending on the type of project you’re working on, you’ll want to follow the cutting with a crucial next step. However, the pipe is close to the wall so the tube cutter won't fit. Cutting the copper tubing properly. When you’re done, use the pipe cutter’s built-in burr removal tool to shave any burrs or raised lips left on the inside of the pipe, as those would inhibit smooth water passage. Learn more... Copper pipe has become a popular material in home repair and design. For small-diameter copper pipe, which can be soft and pinchable, stick to the pipe slice method described later. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/61\/Cut-Copper-Pipe-Step-01.jpg\/v4-460px-Cut-Copper-Pipe-Step-01.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/6\/61\/Cut-Copper-Pipe-Step-01.jpg\/aid9425708-v4-728px-Cut-Copper-Pipe-Step-01.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"