Pipe Cutters & Tubing Cutters
Pipe and tubing cutters make clean, square cuts without sparks or dust. The cutting itself is fairly safe; most injuries come from sharp burrs, pinched hands, cutters that slip, and what was inside the pipe.
- Plumbers
- Pipefitters
- HVAC
- Homeowners
Photo: plumber cutting copper pipe with a wheel cutter while the pipe is held in a tripod vise
Types
| Cutter | For | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Wheel (rotary) tubing cutter | Copper, aluminum, thin steel tube | Tighten a little each turn; overtightening crushes the tube and dulls the wheel |
| Ratchet or scissor cutter | PVC, CPVC, PEX, plastic tubing | Keep fingers away from the blade path; blade must be sharp |
| Steel pipe cutter (heavy wheel) | Steel pipe | Support long pipe; the cut end can drop |
| Soil pipe (chain) snap cutter | Cast iron and clay pipe | Pieces can snap off and fly; wear eye protection |
| Mini or close-quarters cutter | Tight spaces | Knuckles hit nearby surfaces; wear gloves |
Cutting safely
- Secure the pipe in a pipe vise or stand, or make sure installed pipe is supported on both sides of the cut so it can’t drop or spring.
- Wear safety glasses, especially with snap cutters and when cutting overhead.
- Wear cut-resistant gloves when handling freshly cut metal.
- Deburr every cut with a reamer or deburring tool. Burrs slice hands and restrict flow.
- Keep the blade sharp and the wheel clean; dull blades need more force and slip.
Before cutting existing pipe
- Is the line shut off, drained and depressurized?
- Is it actually the line you think it is? Trace it and verify.
- Could it be a gas line? Never cut gas pipe without shutting off and purging per procedure.
- Could it contain sewage or chemicals? Wear gloves, eye protection and have a bucket ready.
- Is it old cement pipe that could contain asbestos? Don’t cut, snap or break it without checking. See Asbestos.
- Is it an old drain line that may have lead joints? Avoid creating dust; wash hands before eating. See Lead.
- Is there electrical grounding on the pipe? Old electrical systems may use metal water pipe as a ground; cutting it can open a path for current. Use a jumper and check with an electrician.
Sewer gas: Opening drain and sewer lines can release hydrogen sulfide and other gases. Ventilate, and never put your face over an open sewer line in an enclosed space. See Hydrogen Sulfide.
Standards & references
- 29 CFR 1926.301: Hand tools
- OSHA: Hand and power tools
- See also: Plumbing & Pipefitting · Pipe Threaders
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