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\n<\/p><\/div>"}. The auto cut tool makes a clean, smooth cut, so you won't need to clean the pipe before using it. Then, create a jig to hold the grinder in place and on while moving the copper tubing past it. Simply hand tighten the pipe cutter onto the mark where you want to trim the pipe. I think 2Busy has the best approach for an even slit in the copper tubing. Making a precise cut is important when installing … Another approach is to use an air compressor driven grinder/cutoff disc. We know ads can be annoying, but they’re what allow us to make all of wikiHow available for free. Slide a compression ring onto the end of the pipe. We use cookies to make wikiHow great. The pipe slice’s blade is spring-loaded; slip it around your pipe, and it automatically determines how much to tighten for a clean cut so all you’ll need to concentrate on is twisting the pipe within its grip. Select an autocut tool. Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Draw a line on the copper pipe where you intend to cut it. Then, clamp the autocut tool onto the pipe exactly where you want it cut and make sure it’s tight so it won’t slide off or wiggle. There are 11 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. Usually, I would use a tube cutter which goes round and round the pipe. To see the SMART Bi-Metal in action check out our video below as we demonstrate cutting copper pipe. You may need to spin the handle a lot if you're using a thin pipe. If you’re not working on plumbing, a little movement is not so much of a problem, but it’s undeniably grunt work. Doing this is fairly straightforward. Keep in mind that sawing the pipe won't give you as precise of a cut. Once the copper pipe is cut look inside the piece at the cut end. Copyright © 2021 Acton Media Inc. All rights reserved. This is a small opening of about 12x18 square. Leah from See Jane Drill demonstrates how to cut copper plumbing pipe with a tubing cutter. Been looking for some sort of cable saw that would cut copper, but no luck. 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). You agree that BobVila.com may process your data in the manner described by our Privacy Policy. Avoid sawing in a backwards and forwards motion because you could damage the blade or make a ragged cut on the pipe. Cutting Copper Pipe A pipe cutter makes cutting copper pipe easy. Kind of like a Scooby Doo plumbing jam. Here are the BEST plumbing tricks when working with copper pipe ever. Zoinks! The right tool for the job makes all the difference. If you're cutting copper pipe in a tight space (such as up against a corner), use an autocut tool. Using a Pipe Cutter. By Steffani Cameron and Bob Vila. Rotate the cutter around the pipe. Beyond its well-earned prominence in the plumbing department, copper piping is having its moment in the DIY world as an “it” accent. For tips from our Handyman reviewer on how to cut a copper pipe with a tubing cutter or hacksaw, read on! The cutter is then turned fully around the circumference of the pipe where it will score the pipe cutting into it slightly. The pipe is rested against the two small rollers on one side of the cutter's jaws. 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; Click here to find your local stockist. If you go to the “Copper” tab down at the bottom of the spreadsheet you can see the point value of a 1/2″ tube (specifically the ‘M’ type that I was using). 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