Pipe Cutting & Preparation Tools
Accurate pipe cutting and preparation are essential for secure, leak-free installations. Pipes must be cut square using suitable tools, then deburred to remove sharp edges. Proper preparation prevents damage to fittings and ensures correct sealing. Many modern systems, eliminate the need for calibration. Final visual inspection confirms full pipe insertion before pressing. Proper technique ensures that fittings seat securely, press connections function correctly, and long-term system integrity is maintained.
How To Prepare A Pipe
- Cut the Pipe Cleanly and Square: Use the correct cutting tool for the pipe material (pipe shears for plastic, pipe cutter for copper or steel, saws for large-diameter pipes). The cut must be perfectly square to ensure full contact with the fitting.
- Deburr and Chamfer: Remove all internal and external burrs using a deburring tool or chamfering tool. This prevents damage to O-rings, sealing surfaces, or the pipe itself during assembly, ensuring smooth fluid flow.
- Clean the Pipe Surface: For press-fit or compression systems wipe the pipe clean to remove dust, dirt, oil, or other contaminants. For soldered joints, clean the pipe and fitting with an abrasive cloth or wire brush to remove oxidation.
- Inspect the Pipe End: Check for roundness, smoothness, and cleanliness. Damaged or deformed pipes should be cut again or replaced to avoid installation failures.
- Mark Insertion Depth (for push-fit or press-fit systems): Use an insertion depth gauge or marking tool to ensure the pipe is inserted fully into the fitting before pressing or sealing.
How To Cut Plastic Pipe
Select the Correct Cutting Tool:
- Use pipe shears or a ratchet pipe cutter for smaller diameter pipes (such as MDPE, PEX, PB, or multilayer pipes).
- For larger pipes or thick-walled plastic, a fine-toothed saw or rotary pipe cutter may be used.
- Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for tool compatibility with the pipe material.
Ensure Straight, Square Cutting:
- Mark the cutting point clearly using a pipe marker or square.
- Hold the pipe securely to prevent movement during cutting.
- Make a straight, even cut at 90° to the pipe axis. Avoid twisting or crushing the pipe while cutting.
Deburr the Cut Ends:
- Use a deburring tool or chamfering tool to remove internal and external burrs.
- This prevents damage to sealing elements (such as O-rings) and ensures smooth insertion into fittings.
Clean the Pipe Surface:
- Wipe away any debris, dust, or cutting particles to leave a smooth, clean surface ready for fitting assembly.
Inspect the Cut:
- Visually check for a clean, square cut, free from burrs or deformation.
Types Of Cutters
Ratchet Pipe Cutters
- Use For: Plastic pipes (PEX, PB, MDPE, multilayer composite)
- Operation: Ratcheting blade slices through pipe with minimal effort
- Key Benefits: Fast, clean, square cuts, Minimal deformation, Ideal for press-fit and push-fit systems, Suitable for most small to medium plastic pipe sizes
Rotary Pipe Cutters
- Use For: Copper, stainless steel, steel, and some rigid plastics
- Operation: Cutter wheel rotates around pipe, gradually tightening until cut
- Key Benefits: Highly accurate, square cuts, Minimises pipe distortion, Excellent for soft metals (e.g. copper)
Mini Pipe Cutters
- Use For: Copper, stainless steel, and tight spaces
- Operation: Similar to rotary cutters, but compact design for confined areas
- Key Benefits: Ideal for small diameters, Allows cutting in tight or awkward spaces, Delivers precise, clean cuts
PVC/ABS Saw
- Use For: Large-diameter plastic pipes (PVC, ABS, HDPE)
- Operation: Manual or powered saw cuts through plastic
- Key Benefits: Handles large diameters and thick-walled pipes, Simple, versatile tool, Effective on most rigid plastics
If you require any further information, our excellent customer service team is here to help so please call us on 01794 835835.
