How to cut a metal pipe.

What you’ll need:

There are a few different ways to cut a metal pipe. The exact equipment you’ll need depends on the cutting method you use and whether you have a power tool or hand tools.

The tools for cutting metal pipe include:

• Safety gear. Work gloves, safety glasses, and hearing protection.
• Measuring equipment. Tape measure or pen/marker.
• Holding tool. Clamp or vise.
• Metal cutting tool. Powered or hand saw, tube cutter, or angle grinder with a cutting wheel.
• Deburring tool. Sandpaper, file, or deburring instrument.

Step 1: Gather and prep your equipment.

Before you get started, make sure you have all your tools and materials ready. Determine the dimensions you need to cut your pipe to. 

Step 2: Determine the pipe material.

Before you start cutting, you should know the material you’re working with. The process for cutting a pipe made of any metal will be similar. However, different metals have unique properties that can slightly alter the cutting process:

Steel pipes.

Pipes made of steel can be carbon, stainless, or galvanized. Steel uses alloys to make it resist corrosion and rusting. You typically have to cut steel pipe and add joints, as it is difficult to bend. Keep in mind that steel pipe gives off sparks when you cut it with a grinder, so don’t do it near anything flammable.

Copper pipes.

Copper is a strong yet malleable metal. Cutting copper pipes generally doesn’t require a power tool. Copper isn’t magnetic and doesn’t give off sparks when cut with a grinder.

Cast iron pipes.

Pipes made of cast iron are hard and brittle. Cast metal is usually too hard to cut with a hand tool like a hacksaw or tube cutter. It may require a specialized chain pipe-cutting tool. This type of pipe is more common in older homes.

Step 3: Measure and mark the pipe.

Once you know which tools you’ll use and what kind of pipe you have, it’s time to mark where to cut. Measure carefully, as you won’t be able to undo a cut. Using a tape measure and marker or pen, make a V-shaped mark where you want to cut.

I prefer a V-shaped mark to a straight line when making a cut because it reduces error. With a straight line, you may forget if you want to cut on the front, back or center of it. Another way to help ensure precise cuts is to make several marks around the circumference of the pipe.

Step 4: Use appropriate safety gear.

Before you start using any cutting tools, put on all your protective equipment. Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect from cuts and sparks. Wear earmuffs or earplugs when you use power tools to prevent hearing damage.

Step 5: Secure the pipe in place.

Using a clamp or vise, secure the pipe tightly to prevent it from shifting during cutting. Not only will this make your cuts more accurate, but it helps prevent injury. If the pipe shifts while cutting, you may lose control of your tool, so be sure the pipe is secure before you begin cutting.

Step 6: Carefully cut the pipe.

Once your pipe is marked and secured, it’s time to make your cut. The cutting process will differ depending on which tool you use.

Hacksaw:

• For the best results, use a fine-tooth saw for cutting metal pipe.
• Starting slowly, draw the hacksaw back and forth across the pipe.
• Make sure to cut straight and not at an angle.

Tube cutter:

• Position the cutter around the pipe.
• Tighten the cutter until the blade makes contact.
• Rotate the cutter, tightening it every few rotations.
• Continue until the cut is complete.

Power saw or grinder:

• Line up the saw blade or cutting wheel with your cut mark.
• Get the blade up to speed before making contact with the pipe.
• If using a grinder, position it so the sparks shoot away from you.
• Start the cut slowly, creating a notch to keep your cut straight.
• Apply steady pressure to cut through the pipe.
• Don’t put any of your weight on the tool so you maintain control of it when you complete the cut.

Step 7: Remove any sharp edges.

Use a deburring tool to remove the kerf of the cut and any sharp edges left over. For finer smoothing, use a file or sandpaper. Not only will this step prevent you from cutting yourself handling the pipe, but it also ensures a good fit.

Dos and don’ts of cutting a metal pipe.

Don’t want to DIY? Hire a plumber instead. 

For homeowners doing their own plumbing repairs, knowing how to cut a metal pipe can save time and money. However, only experienced DIY plumbers should attempt any plumbing repairs that involve cutting pipes. 

For advanced plumbing work, it’s often best to hire a professional. Hiring a pro helps mitigate the risks of tackling a project yourself. Thumbtack gives you easy access to the most qualified contractors in your area. 

Download the Thumbtack app today to get a free quote from a plumber near you.