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How do you cut a pipe cutter?

Published in Pipe Cutting Tools 4 mins read

The question "How do you cut a pipe cutter?" is based on a misunderstanding of the tool's purpose. A pipe cutter is a specialized tool designed to precisely cut pipes, not to be cut itself. If the intent is to understand how this tool operates to cut materials, the correct question is "How do you use a pipe cutter to cut a pipe?"

How Do You Use a Pipe Cutter to Cut a Pipe?

A pipe cutter provides a clean, straight cut on various types of pipes, including copper, PVC, and PEX, without creating burrs or damaging the material. This method is often preferred over a hacksaw for its precision and the clean finish it leaves, which is crucial for leak-free plumbing connections. The process involves securely positioning the pipe within the cutter and rotating the tool to score and ultimately separate the material.

Understanding the Pipe Cutter's Core Components

To effectively use a pipe cutter, it's helpful to know its essential parts and their functions:

  • Cutting Wheel: This is the heart of the tool—a sharp, circular blade made of hardened steel that scores and cuts through the pipe material as it rotates.
  • Rollers (or Guides): As explained in the provided reference on using a pipe cutter (0:26), these tools feature "two rollers or two guides." Their purpose is to "make sure that the pipe goes in the middle in between it sits on there," providing stability and ensuring the pipe remains straight and properly aligned for a clean, perpendicular cut.
  • Adjustable Screw/Handle: This mechanism allows you to open and close the jaws of the cutter and apply precise pressure. By turning the handle, you tighten the cutting wheel onto the pipe, gradually increasing the cutting depth with each rotation.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cutting a Pipe with a Pipe Cutter

Using a pipe cutter effectively requires precision and a systematic approach. Follow these steps for an accurate cut:

  1. Prepare the Pipe:

    • Measure and clearly mark the exact point where you intend to cut the pipe.
    • Ensure the pipe's surface is clean from any debris or burrs that could interfere with the cutter's operation or damage the blade.
  2. Position the Pipe Cutter:

    • Open the pipe cutter's jaws wide enough by turning the adjustable handle counter-clockwise.
    • Carefully "wrap your pipe cutter around your pipe" (0:26), aligning the marked cutting line precisely with the cutting wheel.
    • It is crucial, as noted in the reference, that "the pipe goes in the middle in between it sits on there" on the "two rollers or two guides" (0:26). This proper seating ensures stability and a straight cut.
  3. Apply Initial Pressure:

    • Begin turning the adjustable handle clockwise until the cutting wheel makes firm, but not excessively tight, contact with the pipe's surface. Avoid overtightening at this stage, as it can deform the pipe or dull the blade.
  4. Rotate and Tighten:

    • With firm, consistent hand pressure, rotate the pipe cutter completely around the pipe.
    • After each full rotation, or every few rotations for thicker materials, slightly tighten the adjustable handle to apply more pressure to the cutting wheel. This action deepens the score mark.
    • Continue this rhythm of rotating and then tightening until the pipe is completely severed.
  5. Inspect and Deburr:

    • Once the pipe is cut through, remove the cutter.
    • Examine the cut edge. Pipe cutters typically leave a very clean exterior cut. However, internal burrs (a slight lip on the inside edge) can sometimes occur, especially with softer metals. Many pipe cutters include a built-in reamer for this purpose; alternatively, use a separate deburring tool to smooth the inside edge, ensuring unobstructed flow.

Key Advantages of Using a Pipe Cutter

Feature Description
Clean Cuts Produces remarkably smooth, burr-free cuts, which are essential for secure, leak-proof plumbing connections and optimal fluid flow.
Accuracy The design, featuring stable rollers and a precise cutting wheel, guarantees straight and perpendicular cuts, critical for proper fitting.
Ease of Use Generally requires less physical effort and skill compared to using a hacksaw, making it suitable for DIYers and professionals alike.
Versatility Available in various sizes and types (e.g., mini cutters, quick-release, ratchet styles) to handle a wide range of pipe diameters and materials.

By understanding these principles and following the proper technique, you can efficiently and accurately cut pipes for various plumbing or DIY projects, ensuring high-quality results.