Homemade manual pipe cutter. Manual pipe cutter - what are our muscles capable of? Features of manual pipe cutters

Required tools and materials

To make the device you will need a general purpose tool:

• spanners;
• yews;
• hacksaw for metal;
• files and needle files;
• screwdriver;
• hammer.

The starting materials are:

• square wire rod 15x15 mm;
• M8 bolt;
• M6 screws;
• hacksaw blades;
• spring;
• steel strips 15x4 mm.

Prepare metal rivets with a diameter of 4 mm.

Sequence of work

Start your work by preparing the tools and workplace. Once you have conveniently placed everything you need, proceed to perform basic operations.

Making the left part of the pipe cutter

Cut a piece of wire rod 135 mm long. Fill the lower end of the workpiece with a radius or remove the chamfers and round them with a file.

Then, at a distance of 90 mm from the straight end of the workpiece, drill a hole for the clamping bolt. Hole diameter – 8.2-8.5 mm.

The teeth of the blades on the right and left sides of the pipe cutter should be directed in the same direction.

From the side of the rounded end, drill a hole for the axle. It can be made from a rod with a diameter of 8 mm or you can find a suitable finished part.

Making the right side

You'll have to tinker with the right side a little longer. Firstly, its base, made of wire rod, has complex shape: on the side of the working part, it is necessary to form two sections 40 mm long, making an angle of 30 degrees with the horizontal and 90-120 degrees with each other (in the projection, the picture resembles the roof of a house).

Tuck the remaining free shank under the handle.

Attach the part tightly to the bent sections, similar to the right side of the product.

In the body of the wire rod on the left side, mark the center of the threaded hole into which the clamping bolt will be screwed.

Secure a steel strip opposite the hole on the left side intended for installing the axle.

Its length should be such that the distance from the center of the axis to the nearest edge of the handle is 30 mm.

A hole for the axle is also drilled in the strip first.

Assembly

Reinstall the axle. Its ends can be riveted, only in this case you will get a permanent connection of the parts of the device.

The role of the axis can be played by a screw-nut pair. This design will allow you to disassemble the pipe cutter if necessary.

After installing the axle, screw the clamping bolt into the threaded hole located on the right side of the structure.

Video on the topic

In plumbing, when working with steel pipelines, it is often necessary to divide the original workpiece into fragments of a certain size. Of course, a universal hacksaw for metal can help out, but it is not always convenient to work with it, and the ends of the cut parts must be subsequently cleaned. A properly selected pipe cutter can handle such operations much better.

Types and classification of pipe cutters

The task of a pipe cutter of any design is not only to quickly cut the pipe, but also to properly fix the workpiece before processing. Especially when it comes to steel pipes, which require much more force to separate than copper or plastic products.

Pipe cutters for steel pipes are distinguished according to the following characteristics:

1. According to the thickness of the pipe wall (there is a tool that is designed for cutting thick-walled pipes).
2. According to the design of the clamping unit, pipe cutters are available with clamp, lever and screw clamps.
3. According to the design of the cutting unit - roller, chain, cutter or ratchet (the latter is more often used for cutting low-plasticity materials, and chain pipe cutters are more useful when cutting metal-plastic pipes).
4. By type of drive - manual, electric or hydraulic. IN professional production tubular blanks Pipe cutters with pneumatic drive are also used, but although they cut pipes with a diameter of up to 120...130 mm, they are quite cumbersome and require a compressor.

A pipe cutter for steel pipes should also have some unique features. For example, the blades of the working tool (regardless of the design) must have a hardness that is no less than 15...20 HRC greater than the hardness of the pipe material. In order to perform such an assessment, a well-known method is used to determine the approximate chemical composition of the steel pipe material using the “spark test” method. To do this, the end of the pipe is processed using an emery grinder. The approximate percentage of carbon will be determined most accurately, but in this way it is also possible to identify tungsten, molybdenum and manganese, and, therefore, establish the initial hardness and even the approximate grade of the steel pipe material:

• For low-carbon non-alloy steel, the spark beam will be quite continuous and have a light yellow color;
• For medium carbon non-alloy steel, while maintaining the same beam color, the number of branches and brighter flashes will increase;
• For ordinary quality steel, the spark stream will be thinner and the branches will be shorter. There are practically no outbreaks;
• For alloy steel, the color of the sparks will change to deep yellow, and at their ends, instead of flashes, arrows more elongated along the flow will be observed.

Knowing the approximate hardness of the listed steels, you can select the optimal hardness of the working blades.

Working principle of manual pipe cutters for steel pipes

The easiest way to cut material is with roller pipe cutters. The main unit of the tool is a rigid holder, in the moving part of which disk knives are installed (there can be one, two or three of them). Mutual arrangement The knives can be adjusted depending on the outer diameter of the pipe (the limit for roller pipe cutters is considered to be a diameter of up to 100 mm). For long pipes, a tool is available that also includes guide rollers. They provide longitudinal stability of the workpiece when cutting it.
Before using a roller pipe cutter, perform the following preparatory steps:

• Wet the separation surface: this cleans the outer perimeter and partially removes rust/scale;
• Using a clamp, secure the pipe in the holder, focusing on the marked cutting line;

Next, using a rod, the cutting head is moved around the perimeter of the pipe, and, gradually increasing the feed, the cut is performed. With well-sharpened knives, the cut is clean, without burrs. In order to simplify the design, in roller pipe cutters designed for pipes of small diameters - up to 20...30 mm - the rod is combined with a handle, when moving it the cutting is carried out.

It is not recommended to use roller pipe cutters to separate pipes with a diameter of more than 40 mm. Although the price of such a manual pipe cutter is small, the cut is not of sufficient quality, and the physical effort expended is quite large.

More simple design have cutting pipe cutters, which are widely used in domestic conditions for cutting steel pipes with a diameter of up to 10...15 mm. Instead of rotating when cutting circular knives Here, cutters are used, which, with an ever-increasing feed, gradually bite into the thickness of the steel. It is advisable to use manual pipe cutters for cutting pipes made of plastic materials (up to steel grade 15kp inclusive, or for ordinary quality steel grades St.1 or St.2kp). In this case, the specific load on the cutters is minimal, and the tool does not require frequent sharpening, which requires a certain amount of skill. You can reduce the effort by using surface lubrication with low-viscosity industrial oil or any coolant.

For cutting pipes of especially large diameters (up to 150...200 mm), rotary pipe cutters with a telescopic mechanism for turning the rollers are used. Such designs are convenient in that they can be used in unfavorable working conditions (for example, in recesses or pits). The rollers here are mounted along the outer perimeter of the pipe, and then, using a special lever equipped with a mechanical amplifier, they are pressed against the surface of the pipe. Gradually increasing the feed, separation is performed. The cut is made not so much by force as by the torque developed.

Electric pipe cutters

At large volume For this kind of work, it is advisable to use a tool with an external drive, although their price is noticeably higher. Particularly convenient (if you have a fixed network alternating current) electric pipe cutters.

Typical design pipe cutter with electric drive for cutting ductile steel includes:

1. Impact-resistant housing equipped with ventilation slots.
2. Drive high-speed electric motor designed for voltage 220 V.
3. Three thrust rollers provide the necessary cutting accuracy.
4. A cutting cutter fixed in a tool holder on the motor shaft and protected from the thrust zone.
5. Reduction gear.

The weight of electric pipe cutters does not exceed 1.5 kg, however, many designs provide for attaching the tool to mechanic's workbench. Lubricants working area not required during cutting.
The design of electric pipe cutters for cutting stronger rolled metal is characterized by the absence of a gearbox, and therefore the speed of the cutting tool reaches 3000...4000 per minute. In such conditions, supply of lubricant to the separation zone is mandatory. The working tool is made of hard alloy grades VK5 or VK8, and the disk itself is covered with a removable casing.

The design of a hydraulic pipe cutter includes a working cylinder, a rod and a piston, and the necessary pressure is created by a compact hydraulic pump, which is included in the package. The stroke of the cutter is regulated by changing the pressure of the working fluid - water. Hydraulic pipe cutters can be used in any conditions, but they are inferior in power to electrically driven models.

Features of the most popular models of hand-held pipe cutting tools

Actively promotes its products to specialized markets in the country trademark RIGID. Pipe cutters from this company are compact in size, and at the same time, they efficiently cut pipes of both alloy and non-alloy steel. In order to reduce the cutting effort, the feed unit is equipped with rolling bearings, which reduce friction losses. The cutting rollers are returned to their original position using a spring device. The roller mount itself is unified and quick-release, which makes servicing the tool easier. All parts of pipe cutters are made of stainless steel, so pipe cutting can be performed even in a damp environment (for example, under water). The disadvantage of RIGID pipe cutters is the design of the handle, which does not allow the development of high torque during operation.

The REED company produces chain pipe cutters that have proven themselves when performing repair work on cast iron pipelines. REED's SUPER line uses a roller cutting tool, and is more suitable for cutting steel pipes. Cutting discs made of high-resistant tool steels, which eliminates the appearance of burrs on the interface surface. Compared to conventional pipe cutters, the tool has a more convenient shape of the power handle, but is not intended for work in conditions high humidity. Preliminary setup of the tool and its adjustment during the operation are not required.

The Rothenberger company produces disk-type pipe cutters, which are equipped with a convenient clamp-type clamping mechanism, which can be easily adjusted to cut steel pipes of a different diameter. The roller tool is characterized by increased strength and rigidity, and therefore can efficiently cut pipes with thick walls. In terms of cut quality, pipe cutters from Rothenberger are not inferior to those discussed above, but are equipped with an expanded set of cutting rollers, and therefore are also suitable for working with copper or cast iron pipes.

Installation and replacement of pipes during plumbing work cannot do without cutting individual elements into fragments the right size. The best way to divide a pipe into parts is to use a special tool - a pipe cutter. Using this device, you will be able to cut the pipe efficiently and evenly, obtaining even, smooth and neat edges at the cut points. Unlike a simple hacksaw, a pipe cutter works well and quickly, saving you effort and time. You will learn how to choose the right tool and how to use it in this article.

Experienced plumbers know that a pipe cutter is not a universal tool. Depending on the type and thickness of the pipes, you should use different instruments. There are pipe cutters that help you work with several types of materials, but certain models are only suitable for a specific type of pipe. For home use A tool for cutting steel pipes is quite sufficient. With this device you can work with both lightweight plastic and copper structures, as well as pipes made of more durable materials. And if you buy a pipe cutter for plastic pipes, then it will be impossible to use it for cutting steel pipes.

To decide which tool you need, you need to familiarize yourself with different types pipe cutters We will talk about their classifications further.

Classification of devices according to the thickness of the processed pipes

The right tool should be selected based on what kind of pipes you will have to work with. In this matter, it is important to take into account not only the material of construction, but also the thickness of their walls. So, depending on the thickness of the pipes, you can choose one of the following types pipe cutters:

1. Tool for working with thin-walled structures. This category includes pipe cutters for copper pipes, metal-plastic, brass, and thin stainless steel. As a rule, in this case, roller or cutter type models are used.
2. Pipe cutters for processing thick-walled pipes made of cast iron or steel. Such devices include chain, multi-roller and split pipe cutters.
3. The third category is a tool suitable for working with fragile structures, for example, concrete or ceramic pipes. In such cases, it is customary to use chain-type pipe cutters.

Classification of pipe cutters depending on the type of structure

There are several different types of instruments, differing from each other in their design features. Let's look at them in more detail:

1. A pipe cutter, often used for cutting plastic pipes- This is a kind of clip made of steel. Special durable discs are fixed in it, which ensure cutting of the material. These discs are also made of steel, their position can be adjusted at your discretion. The maximum diameter of the pipe that this tool can work with is 10 cm. In the process of dividing the pipe, the cut at the end is neat and smooth.
2. The manual roller pipe cutter is designed for steel pipes. Such a tool consists of 1-3 rollers responsible for cutting the pipe, as well as guide rollers. The diameter of the pipes that can be processed using this device directly depends on the number of rollers. For example, a three-roller pipe cutter can cut structures with a diameter of up to 10 cm, while a tool with a single roller can handle a pipe no wider than 5 cm in diameter. Unlike the previous type, these pipe cutters do not work as accurately; the cut is not very smooth and may contain burrs.
3. Tools with a chain-type design help to work with fragile materials: ceramics, concrete, cast iron. These pipe cutters have a tensioning mechanism, swivel arms, and chains equipped with cutting rollers. The principle of operation of such a device is quite simple: the chain is tightened around the pipe and cuts into it by turning the levers.
4. Rotary or rotary telescopic tools are the most expensive device, which allows you to carry out work in the most complex and unfavorable conditions, for example, at the bottom of pits and trenches, as well as under water. Design features Such a pipe cutter consists of the presence of identical interchangeable rollers, which are fixed around the pipe, cutting it. The tool also has a removable handle with which it is driven. The same handle allows you to press the cutting rollers during operation. The rotary pipe cutter copes well with the most durable structures, the wall thickness of which reaches 19 mm.
5. For cutting metal-plastic pipes It is convenient to use tools with a ratchet mechanism. These are small devices that cut thin single-layer pipes. The peculiarity of the ratchet mechanism is that after cutting the material, the blade returns to its original position. However, it will not be possible to use such a pipe cutter for pipes with a diameter of more than 3 cm.

Types of pipe cutters based on operating principle

Pipe cutters are also usually classified by type of action. Let's consider different kinds tools:

1. Manual pipe cutters are usually used for household purposes. The operating principle of such a tool is based on human muscle work. This is the simplest and cheapest type of pipe cutter; moreover, even those who do not have specific skills in working with plumbing can use them.
2. An electric pipe cutter is equipped with a motor that powers the tool. Such devices are more expensive than their manual counterparts, but working with them is easier and faster. Firstly, the master does not need to apply extra physical strength, and secondly, the pipe cutting process is much faster. Electric pipe cutters are different: small compact models can be used for household work, and massive units are used in production.
3. Hydraulic pipe cutters. The principle of their operation is based on fluid pressure. Such a device is equipped with a piston, rod, and hydraulic pump. During operation, the pump exerts pressure on the piston, and the pipe cutter comes into action. When the water pressure weakens, the incisors return to their original position. Such tools do not need to be connected to an electrical outlet, however, their power is noticeably less than that of electric pipe cutters.
4. Another type of tool is pneumatic pipe cutters. They are used to work with pipes whose diameter reaches 130 cm. These devices can be equipped with cutters various types, therefore such pipe cutters are used both for plastic pipes and for solid cast iron structures. Pneumatic models are not as compact as their electric counterparts. Some tools are large and can weigh about 60 kg. As a rule, special trolleys for transporting them are sold complete with such pipe cutters.

How to choose a tool depending on the material of the pipes being processed

Before purchasing a pipe cutter, you need to consider which pipes you will have to work with. Let's consider the classification of tools depending on the material being processed:

1. Copper pipes have one distinctive feature: They bend and deform easily. To avoid pipe damage, you should choose the right tool for cutting it. The most suitable options include steel pipe cutters telescopic type or ratchet design. It is better if the blade of the tool is made of alloy steel.
2. Thin plastic pipes lend themselves well to cutting with special scissors. Unlike a pipe cutter, scissors will cost their owner much less, and besides, working with them does not cause any complications. However, if your scope of work is very large, then if you use scissors for a long time, your hands will quickly get tired. Among other things, when purchasing such a tool, you can sometimes come across low-quality models. Good fit For working with plastic pipes, a cordless pipe cutter for polypropylene structures is also considered. However, it can be used to process pipes no larger than 4.2 cm in diameter. Telescopic devices, as well as models with a ratcheting mechanism, will also help in working with metal-plastic pipes.
3. Concrete, cast iron, and ceramic structures are easiest to cut using chain-type tools - this way you will not damage the fragile material and will not leave chips and cracks on it.

How to use the tool

Let's look at the features of using pipe cutters using the example of metal and plastic pipes. A roller pipe cutter is most often used for processing metal structures. You need to use it as follows:

1. Mark the location on the pipe where you plan to make the cut. Metal constructions Before processing, you must first wet it using ordinary water.
2. Secure the pipe in the tool clamp. To do this, open the clamping block, place the pipe in it, move the roller to the intended cutting line and firmly fix the metal in the pipe cutter.
3. Rotate the clamping mechanism, gradually increasing the tension. This will cut the pipe along the line you marked.

Metal-plastic and polypropylene structures are easiest to cut with a guillotine tool. This is done in several stages:

1. First draw a mark on the pipe where you will cut.
2. Spread the handles of the pipe cutter to the sides and insert the pipe into it.
3. Close the handles so that the blade touches the intended line.
4. Using some force, press the handle and cut the pipe in the desired location.

Large diameter structures can also be cut using a similar tool, but this will take a little more time. During operation, the cutting rollers will have to be moved in a circle until they, cutting into the plastic, finally divide the pipe into parts.

How to make a pipe cutter. Video