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.
Before moving ahead with the proceedings, determine the length that needs to be removed. This evaluation depends on the requirements of your project. Take into account the fittings and the pipe connectors while determining the final length. Tag the exact location with the help of a bright piece of chalk or tape. Get ready to cut the decided length of pipe. Wear rubber gloves and goggles before commencing the operation.
Take the pipe in your one hand and the cutting tool in your other hand. Make sure that the other hand is placed away from the vicinity of the sharp 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 repeating the procedure until the pipe gets dissociated from the rest of the length.
Place the cut length of pipe at a convenient location and clean the face of the existing pipe with a piece of cloth.
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