What is the best way to cut metal-plastic pipes? - Home design
In the process of installing or repairing pipelines made of metal-plastic pipes, the need arises for cutting pipes. This is a task that must be performed as correctly as possible. Inaccurate cutting can ruin the product.
There is a misconception that only metal pipes can be cut, and metal-plastic products need to be replaced entirely. This is completely untrue. Metal-plastic products are easy to cut. The main thing is to use high-quality tools and carry out each stage of the task with utmost precision. In this article you will learn how to cut metal-plastic pipes.
Preparatory stage
First you need to collect everything you need to solve the problem.
The list of tools includes:
- calibrator;
- pipe bender;
- adjustable wrench;
- any fabric.
As you know, metal pipes include a layer of plastic and an aluminum bedding. They are firmly welded together using laser welding. The frame is an aluminum tube. The core of the product is quite smooth.
However, experts still recommend cleaning the surface of the structure from possible irregularities before starting cutting.
To strip pipe products, it is necessary to use a coupling. The process of cleaning the surface of the product itself takes a little time.
Cutting technique
To solve the problem under consideration, it is best to use scissors for cutting metal-plastic pipes. This tool is the most convenient. Cutting with scissors is quite simple. You don't have to exert much physical effort to complete the task. The main thing is to perform the operation accurately so that the cut is even.
Some experts, answering the question of how to cut metal-plastic pipes at home, suggest using various home-made devices or tools that were not originally intended to perform the task in question. We categorically do not recommend following such advice. To cut pipes, you need to use only specialized tools. Moreover, its cost is low.
To cut metal-plastic products you will need technical scissors. This tool often comes with welding kits. These scissors are equipped with blades specifically designed for cutting structures made from the material in question. Their handle is ergonomic. Therefore, it is very convenient to use them.
It is necessary to mark the location of the cut and begin the task. No special skills are needed for slicing. Anyone can cope with this procedure. But if you've never done this, practice on some unwanted or defective pipe first.
To mark the cutting site, you can use an ordinary pencil. The mark can also be made using a grinder. In the latter case, it is important not to make deep marks. Because this way you have every chance of seriously damaging the pipe structure. Be sure to wear safety glasses while cutting. They will protect your eyes from small particles of metal-plastic.
Technical nuances
The most convenient for cutting are pipes with a diameter of five to thirty centimeters. If you need to trim a larger item, it is best to seek help from a qualified professional.
You can cut metal-plastic products with various tools. The procedure is in many ways similar to cutting PVC products. To perform the operation, it is permissible to use a hacksaw or a knife with teeth. But it is best, as we said above, to use a specialized tool.
If you decide to cut a pipe for dismantling purposes, and you do not intend to use it in the future, it is permissible to perform the operation with almost any tool. For all other purposes, cutting must be done with special scissors. Only they will allow you to make a high-precision cut.
During cutting, it is necessary to take into account not only the deformation of the product under the influence of temperature conditions, but also from physical factors. Excessive force during operation may cause cracks in the product. Despite the fact that metal-plastic is more flexible than metal, it is subject to various deformations.
After cutting, blow or flush the pipe. Choose a cleaning method based on the purpose of the structure.
If this is not done, a small amount of small particles may remain inside the pipes, which in the near future can cause damage to the pipeline or devices connected to it.
The electronic cutting method is not very suitable for working with metal-plastic. It is best to use hand tools to trim this material. For example, a ribbed blade lubricated with machine oil.
Watch the video:
Source: https://luchik-center.ru/kak-sdelat/chem-luchshe-rezat-metalloplastikovye-truby.html
How to cut metal-plastic pipes at home | Cutting scissors
In the process of installing or repairing pipelines made of metal-plastic pipes, the need arises for cutting pipes. This is a task that must be performed as correctly as possible. Inaccurate cutting can ruin the product.
There is a misconception that only metal pipes can be cut, and metal-plastic products need to be replaced entirely. This is completely untrue. Metal-plastic products are easy to cut. The main thing is to use high-quality tools and carry out each stage of the task with utmost precision. In this article you will learn how to cut metal-plastic pipes.
Which scissors to choose for cutting metal-plastic pipes?
When replacing a heating system or plumbing, metal-plastic is often used. This material is quite easy to install, but the question may arise: how to cut the pipe? After all, the material is supplied in coils, and during installation you need to separate a piece of the required length. To perform this work, it is best to use shears for metal-plastic pipes.
Many owners undertake repairs themselves, including replacing heating or water supply systems. The material used can be metal-plastic pipes sold in the form of coils. Essentially, these are products made of aluminum, and the metal part is insulated inside and outside with a layer of plastic. Let's figure out what and how to cut metal-plastic.
Handy tools
When planning your own repairs, you need to think in advance about what you will use to cut metal-plastic pipes. This material is not as pliable as pure plastic piping parts, but it is fairly easy to cut. What tools can you use at home? Here are the possible options:
- Self-sharpening knife with serrated blade. Cutting metal-plastic with such a tool is not easy, but it is quite possible. However, using a knife to cut metal-plastic pipes should only be used as a last resort if a more suitable tool is not available.
- Hacksaw for metal. This is a more convenient tool to use; it will cope with the task assigned to it.
A huge disadvantage of using improvised tools for cutting metal-plastic is that the cut turns out uneven. Burrs and scuffs appear on it, and when cutting with a knife, you can even “flatten” the pipe, changing the shape of its section. All these defects make installation difficult and can subsequently complicate operation.
Therefore, if you plan not just to replace a small section of the system, but to carry out a full repair of the pipeline, then it makes sense to purchase special scissors or a pipe cutter for metal-plastic pipes.
Types of scissors
To cut a metal-plastic pipe, you should use special tools. Metal-plastic scissors have hardened wedge-shaped blades. This design allows you to make the most even cut possible without the formation of burrs or burrs.
Advice! To get a good result, during the cutting process it is necessary not only to squeeze the handles of the tool, but also to rotate it around its axis.
Scissors for cutting metal-plastic are a hand tool that is recommended to work with if the diameter of the products being cut does not exceed 40 mm. To cut larger pipes, it is better to use more complex devices - pipe cutters.
With ratchet mechanism
The simplest, but very reliable and convenient option for the home craftsman is scissors with a ratchet mechanism. Working with this tool is not difficult, you need to:
- mark a cutting line on the pipe;
- clamp it in the scissors, placing the blades along the intended line. you can control the position of the blade relative to the intended cutting line through the slot;
- squeezing the handles, make a cut;
- to get a good result, it is necessary to position the pipe strictly perpendicular to the base of the scissors and press it very tightly to the base.
advice! This type of scissors is ideal for working with small diameter pipes - up to 40 mm.
scissors have one cutting blade, opposite it there is a wide base with a slot. when you press the handle, the cutting blade lowers into the slot, cutting the workpiece strictly at a right angle.
This tool is affordable, but it also has a significant drawback - during the work it will require physical effort. If you need to cut a large number of pipes, your hand will quickly get tired due to unaccustomed use and you will have to take a break.
roller
This is a cutter in which the cutting function is performed not by the blade, but by the rollers. the number of cutting rollers depends on the diameter of pipes the device is designed to work with.
advice! Pipe cutters of this type are recommended for cutting products with a diameter of up to 50 mm.
When using the equipment correctly, the cut is perfectly even. order of work:
- First, unscrew the fixing screw from the clamp;
- lay the pipe, applying staples to the cut site;
- carefully tighten the fixing screw, fixing the workpiece between the brackets;
- We smoothly rotate the tool around the pipe, cutting the workpiece along the intended line.
The disadvantage of this cutting method is that it takes a lot of time to complete one cut, since you have to unscrew and tighten the fixing screw each time. the cut is also made gradually, and not instantly, as when using scissors.
power tool
Professionals, as a rule, do not use hand tools, but electric devices. Thus, an electric pipe cutter is very similar to ordinary scissors with a ratchet, but when working with it you do not have to exert any physical effort.
Cordless pipe cutters are very convenient; they can be used to easily cut a large number of pipes without any effort. But such a tool costs much more than ordinary scissors, so you should buy it only if you plan to constantly work with metal-plastic.
additional recommendations
In order to efficiently cut a pipe with any of the described tools, it is important to place the pipe in them strictly perpendicularly. In addition, you need to remember that when the pipe is exposed, it may move, which will lead to a change in the length of the cut section. Therefore, the workpiece must be well fixed, for example, using a bench vice.
So, in order to make a high-quality cut, you need to use special scissors for cutting metal-plastic pipes. When purchasing this tool, do not buy the cheapest options; give preference to trusted brands that guarantee the quality of their products. Only in this case can you achieve a good result.
Source: http://kanalizaciyam.ru/nozhnicy-dlya-metalloplastikovyx-trub.html
How to cut metal-plastic pipes
Over time, old pipes wear out, begin to leak, and the inevitable need to replace the pipeline occurs. There are many people who still consider iron pipes to be almost perfect. But now there is a more modern solution - pipes based on polypropylene and polymer compositions with an iron frame. But what are they, and how exactly are they installed?
In order to find out the intricacies of cutting metal-plastic pipes and their installation, it is worth a little explaining why a metal pipeline is currently not popular. Everything here is clear and simple - the metal is bulky, difficult to deliver and susceptible to corrosion. In addition, the iron pipeline is not so. Copper oxidizes and turns green in a wet environment. In addition, it is significantly more expensive than steel pipes.
Below you will find information about the construction of pipes based on metal-plastic and how to cut metal-plastic pipes.
Preparing the pipe and the necessary tools
First of all, you need to choose the right tool. At our disposal:
- metal-plastic calibrator;
- pipe bender or reinforced spring;
- adjustable wrenches, foil;
- fireproof fabric.
The base of metal-plastic pipes includes a layer of polypropylene plastic, a narrow aluminum lining made using ultra-precise laser welding and a final narrow layer of plastic. The aluminum tube serves as the “frame” of the pipe.
The inner surface of the pipeline is ideally smooth, therefore, unlike iron, such a pipe does not collect rust and other slag on its surface. If it is necessary to clean the outer part of the reinforced coating, use a simple coupling with blades. The end part of the material is surrounded by the coupling itself. Once the coupling is inserted, a perfectly even cut is obtained. The whole process will not take more than five minutes.
Advice! Cleaning the reinforced surface is done to get rid of the polymer layer and protective coating, which is necessary for welding work. It is also taken into account that the material is cut to the thickness required for fitting the fitting.
How are metal-plastic pipes cut?
And now let’s talk specifically about what metal-plastic pipes are cut with. If there is a need to cut a metal-plastic pipe, plumbing shears for metal-plastic come to the aid of the master.
Cutting pipes does not require much effort and is well controlled visually. During operation, the pipes at the junction must be bent. You will need a simple device - a pipe bender. Without this simple device, it is unlikely that you will be able to bend the pipe properly with your own hands. If you try to bend the pipe with your hands, there is a huge possibility of damaging the aluminum layer, which will lead to rapid failure of the entire pipeline.
Advice! When using tools not intended for processing metal-plastic pipes, there is a huge risk of damaging the reinforced layer of the pipe, taking an uneven cut at the outlet, which will ultimately lead to leaky pipe connections - water will leak at the joints.
Technical scissors for cutting polymer pipes are supplied in a set with welding machines for metal-plastic pipes. This tool has a sharp blade for cutting soft structures and an ergonomic handle. The simplest models allow cutting pipes with a radius of no more than 20 mm, so if necessary, you should get more advanced scissors that can handle pipes of enormous diameters.
- After selecting the appropriate size and marking, the required length is cut off with scissors.
- Cutting with special scissors is completely waste-free; at the end of cutting there are no crumbs left and you can immediately begin assembly work.
- Working with such scissors does not require any skills, and cutting can be done without additional skills.
Metal-plastic pipes can be cut using old, familiar devices, and many people are interested in how to cut a pipe with a grinder.
First of all, a mark is made on the pipe. A grinder of any size will do. In this case, you need to have a blade for cutting iron structures. A serious retreat is not to make much effort when working. Cutting is done quickly, but there is a lot of noise during operation, and some amount of chips cannot be avoided.
This video demonstrates the operation of a pipe cutter for metal-plastic pipes:
Source: https://uchebniksantehnika.ru/truby/chem-rezat-metalloplastikovye-truby.html
How to cut metal-plastic pipes at home?
» Other »
Question for experts: METAL-PLASTIC PIPES - do they have to be cut with special scissors?
Sincerely, OPTIMIST Amazing(RARE view)
Best answers
I used a hacksaw to cut metal. But it wasn't always smooth.
You can also use a hacksaw. I still use a knife handle to flare it. but keep in mind this is somewhat incorrect.
There are different methods on one site I looked at.
. 2) The second is a knife with teeth, or as it is also called a self-sharpening knife. They are more difficult to cut because there is a piece of aluminum in the middle. However, if there is no other tool, you can cut it off.
The disadvantages of such methods of cutting pipes are that when cutting a pipe, the plastic gets dirty, and parts of the plastic remain at the pipe joint, which can then get into the pipes and clog the filters. We don't need this. Therefore, the most correct way to cut metal-plastic pipes is cutting with scissors.
3) Cutting with special scissors. I already mentioned them in the article with polypropylene pipes. Now I want to show you again.
These scissors are sold in any hardware store or supermarket, they are not that expensive and will always come in handy around the house, especially if you install and maintain water or heating pipes yourself.
Cutting metal-plastic pipes in this way couldn’t be easier, just clamp the pipe and cut it. The pipe is cut very smoothly and without any jagged edges and can be installed immediately.
you need to make the end even without distortions, but you can cut it with whatever you can, even with a grinder
hacksaw for metal. be careful and everything will be fine
Yes, you can cut it with an ax, but in the couplings for these pipes, a stop is required, there is a circular Teflon gasket inside, it is placed there for a reason - you need an even perpendicular circular cut of the pipe so that it rests evenly on the end when installing the fitting.
And the correct cut can only be done with plastic pipe scissors and a circular cutter, or an electric miter box. With a hacksaw, if you try, you can make an even cut, only on small diameters - 16-25mm.
For installation, a device for chamfering edges is required! ! Calibrator (flaring)
Even scissors give a straight cut only with equal pressure on both parts of the pipe, and this rarely happens, so they cut with a roller pipe cutter for thin-walled pipes.
They'll write more horror stories! Already cut metal-plastic with a pipe cutter. Perversion. It’s good when you calmly cut one pipe at home and don’t assemble the entrance. You will work until the second coming of Christ! You can cut with anything! And an uneven cut is not Armageddon either.
The main thing is to use a gauge after cutting (as Kot mentioned above). Although you can flare the edges with other available tools. You can remove burrs with a sharp knife.
The point is that when inserting a pipe into a fitting, its edges do not lift up the rubber sealing rings in the fitting.
That's all, as they say.
answer
This video will help you figure it out
Answers from experts
Special cutter
Household supplies have special cutters.
depending on what... ecoplastic? or sewer? ecoplastic - sewer scissors - hacksaw. Bulgarian...
Buy scissors and don’t worry))))
scissors for PVC pipes, if sewer, then a hacksaw.
There are special scissors for plastic pipes.
a hacksaw for metal, a sicator, and there are special scissors.
a clamp with rollers there, a mini pipe cutter, it rolls the edges - the fittings are easier to assemble [link blocked by decision of the project administration]
I just broke it once, then flared it with something. 10 years everything is ok.
In fact, no one uses metal-plastic pipes anymore due to the unreliability of connections and the high cost of fittings. They use polypropylene, reinforced or not. And they are cut with scissors included in the welding machine kit or purchased separately at a price of ~500-700 rubles in any s/t store.
I WILL NOT STOP DRINKING BUT I WILL SMOKE:
stores sell special scissors for cutting pipes
Scissors A hacksaw will cause burrs and an uneven edge.
Also, for bending, you may need an external spring and a calibrator for chamfering.
so it’s better to use a special tool, but if there’s a lot of it and your hands are growing out of place, then you can cut it like that
Fuck you with an ax
Source: https://dom-voprosov.ru/prochee/chem-rezat-metalloplastikovye-truby-v-domashnih-usloviyah
How to choose and use a pipe cutter for metal-plastic pipes - Prof Pipes
There is no such thing as too many construction tools. Anyone who repairs professionally or as an amateur will agree with this statement. Most operations can be performed manually using a minimum of tools, but is there any point in this?
Any job can be made easier if you choose the right equipment. A pipe cutter for metal-plastic pipes is inexpensive, but significantly speeds up the process of laying pipes.
In what cases is a pipe cutter needed?
A metal-plastic pipe is a prefabricated structure of at least 3 layers: a thin layer of aluminum - a frame, and two layers of polypropylene. The elements of the layered structure are connected by laser welding. Metal-plastic is used in plumbing work for laying water pipes, as well as for wiring the heating circuit.
The pipes are quite soft and cutting them is not that difficult. A hacksaw or even a regular knife with a serrated blade will do. Of course, it is possible to make one cut with such a tool, but not a single builder would agree to do this on an ongoing basis.
Builders also often make do with an angle grinder – an angle grinder. Yes, a metal disc easily passes through thin aluminum foil, but a lot of debris and waste remains at the workplace.
It is noisy, you need to connect the power supply, and each time clamp the pipe itself in a vice to fix it.
And if you need to cut off part of an installed pipeline in a hard-to-reach place, you definitely won’t be able to get there with a grinder.
Thin-walled pipes of small diameter are cut with metal scissors, but if the width is more than 40 mm, professional equipment is used
It is not advisable to cut a pipe with a non-professional tool.
And this is not just a matter of difficulty in terms of physical labor. The cut is not smooth, with jagged edges and chips. It will have to be cleaned additionally, otherwise the system will malfunction.
Advantages of manual and electric pipe cutters
Tools for cutting metal-plastic pipes can be of 2 types:
A manual pipe cutter works due to the muscular strength of the person using it. It can be used in any conditions, there is no connection to the availability of power, there are no restrictions on operating time depending on the battery capacity and there are no other inconveniences associated with using a power tool.
However, no one will argue that for large volumes of work, hand tools may not be enough. This is especially true for thick-walled, large-diameter metal-plastic pipes. Of course, such materials are rare in household construction, but for a professional plumber this is a very real situation.
The tool saves employee time and effort. In addition, the human factor is excluded when it “didn’t press”, “didn’t check” or the eye failed
An electric pipe cutter with a battery is a real salvation when cutting on an industrial scale.
In the case of a power tool, a person only makes a mark where the cut is to be made, then secures the part so that the mark on the pipe and in the pipe cutter window coincide as accurately as possible, then turns on the power and gets a neat, perfectly even cut.
Of course, it's not just about convenience. The cost of a cordless pipe cutter for metal-plastic pipes is several times higher than the cost of a hand tool. No one wants to overpay, unless, of course, you use the device in professional activities almost every day.
Types of tools by type of cutting element
Depending on the design of the cutting mechanism, the following types of pipe cutters for metal-plastic pipes are distinguished:
- roller (with one or more rollers);
- ratchet;
- guillotines;
- with clamp latch.
A pipe cutter is usually made of durable metal - carbon or alloy steel. The handle can be made of plastic or rubberized.
Ratchet pipe cutter - scissors for metal-plastic
The easiest way to cut a piece of metal-plastic is with special precision scissors. This pipe cutter is designed for diameters up to 100 mm. The cutting element is a sharpened steel blade. The pipe is placed in a special holder - a semicircular metal holder. When the material is firmly installed, a mark is applied and a cut is made.
A pipe cutter works on the principle of scissors: by closing the ends of the handle, you lower the cutting element and make an even, smooth cut. A special gear rack-ratchet is responsible for the reverse motion of the blade. If it was not possible to make a cut in one go, it will not allow the knife to return to its original position, but will fix it to continue working. This significantly saves the worker’s effort.
The main advantage of this type of tool is ease of use and low cost. It copes with the task perfectly, the cut is smooth and precise. They can cut not only metal-plastic, but also polypropylene parts
Due to the design features of the metal-plastic pipe, the material at the end may bend and lose its shape. For leveling, use a calibrator or carry out the procedure manually.
If you plan to cut pipes only during renovations or wiring in the bathroom, there is no point in buying an expensive automatic device; precision shears with a ratchet will do. Most likely, after completing the installation of the plumbing or heating system, your pipe cutter will go into the drawer with the rest of the tools for a long time.
It's another matter if you need a pipe cutter for work. When working with scissors, your hand gets very tired; it’s difficult to handle a large volume at once alone.
For professional use, it is better to pay attention to other types of tools. In addition, this model copes well with soft metal-plastic pipes, but it cannot be called universal.
If you have to cut steel or copper products, this option will not work.
Sophisticated and efficient roller pipe cutter
A roller pipe cutter for metal-plastic is much more versatile. Depending on the diameter of the “C”-shaped clip and the number of rollers, there are models for cutting small pipes (up to 50 mm) and thicker ones (up to 125 mm). When working with large diameters, models with several rollers are used.
The principle of operation of a manual roller pipe cutter is that the part is clamped in a holder, and the cutting element is located close to it. Guide rollers are placed inside the cage itself.
The worker rotates the pipe cutter around an axis, with each turn the cutter moves closer to the center.
If the handle is equipped with a ratchet, this will eliminate the possibility of “reverse motion”, that is, loosening the fixation during operation.
This guarantees an even, perpendicular cut.
The advantage of this type of pipe cutter is that working with it does not require much effort on the part of the operator.
Anyone who has ever made preparations for the winter and used a seaming wrench can imagine in general terms how to work with a pipe cutter for roller-type metal-plastic pipes.
One of the main disadvantages is that the cutting is carried out in jerks. They lead to minimal displacement of the part in the holder, and this entails the appearance of burrs on the cut. After cutting, you will have to process the sections of metal-plastic pipes. Expensive models have a smooth telescopic motion, which eliminates the appearance of irregularities.
Guillotine - uniform cutting of metal-plastic pipes
A guillotine is a tool that cuts evenly over the entire cross-sectional area. A pipe cutter with this operating principle ensures a perpendicular and clean cut without burrs. Uniform distribution of the load eliminates the possibility of deformation of the metal-plastic pipe during operation.
There are several types of implementation of this idea. The most primitive and inexpensive option - the blade is lowered by rotating the handle and gradually lowering the rod. A more advanced model is in the form of a pistol. The guillotine lowers when the operator pulls the trigger.
A pipe cutter with a guillotine mechanism can handle pipes up to 100mm wide, but most models are limited to a 7cm diameter. For domestic use, this is usually sufficient.
Clip-on design for secure fit
Another type of device for cutting metal-plastic pipes is a pipe cutter with a clamp latch. The principle of operation is similar to the roller model, the main difference is that the part is not simply clamped in a holder by turning the handle, but is fixed tightly on all sides.
Some models are equipped with a second handle, which is very convenient when working with large-diameter pipes and thick walls.
In this case, the cutting discs (usually 2 of them) are placed along the lower edge of the “C”-shaped cage. The main advantage of this type of tool is its compactness. The design can be used even in places where there is nowhere to turn, let alone rotate a large pipe cutter.
What to look for when choosing
When choosing a good pipe cutter for metal-plastic pipes, it is worth finding out what functions, in addition to the main one - cutting, they may have. Some models can not only make a perpendicular cut, but also chamfer 15-30 degrees, sometimes even simultaneously with cutting. The chamfer simplifies the installation of fittings.
Roller pipe cutters can leave behind burrs - unevenness and roughness that spoil the appearance of the cut and performance characteristics. A good tool will be equipped with a special deburring attachment. It resembles the surface of a file, is put on instead of a rotating disk blade, and the cut is processed according to the same principle as cutting - by rotating the device around the pipe.
The blade can become dull and, most often, this happens at the most inconvenient moment, when work is in full swing and you don’t want to waste time sharpening the pipe cutter. In this case, such a standard item as a spare roller will be very useful. A sharpened spare tire will always help out in an emergency.
Manufacturers conduct hundreds of tests and create many prototypes, which allow them to create a pipe cutter with an ergonomic handle, when every finger is “in its place” and the work does not cause discomfort.
Ergonomics - this criterion is one of the fundamental ones when choosing a manual pipe cutter for metal-plastic pipes. A tool that you will use often and in large quantities should be comfortable, fit well in your hand and not slip. The work is carried out with one hand, and you should not feel tired.
Top models on the instrument market
The most commonly found tool in the toolbox in a DIYer's garage are pipe cutters and scissors for metal-plastic pipes. In order not to rack your brains while understanding the variety of tools in construction departments, it is better to immediately familiarize yourself with the ratings of popular high-quality models of different price categories and make a choice based on the experience of other buyers.
Budget models for home use
Source: https://profpipe.ru/obsluzhivanie/kak-vybrat-i-polzovatsya-truborezom-dlya-metalloplastikovyh-trub.html
How to cut plastic pipes
When installing various pipelines, plastic pipes are increasingly replacing steel ones. This is facilitated by factors such as:
- a wide variety of products made from different types of plastic;
- high resistance of plastic to corrosion and overgrowing of walls with limescale;
- the lightness of plastic pipes, which greatly facilitates the installation of pipelines;
- lower cost of plastic compared to metal pipes, significantly reducing the estimated cost of laying pipelines;
- long service life.
Therefore, plastic pipes are widely used in both industrial and private housing construction.
What tool can be used to cut plastic pipes
Considering that the people in our country are artisans, then they manage to use the most unimaginable means at hand to cut pipes. But you should not think that such cutting contributes to the good quality of the future pipeline. Therefore, we will consider the tools that allow you to cut plastic pipes with the highest quality:
- hacksaw for metal;
- self-sharpening knife (with fine teeth);
- scissors for cutting plastic pipes;
- roller type pipe cutter;
- battery pipe cutter;
- guillotine pipe cutter.
Cutting pipes with a hacksaw or a knife should not be considered seriously, since their use leads to the end of the pipe being frayed and burrs forming, which must be eliminated using sandpaper or stripping with a knife.
In any case, the quality of the cut suffers. These methods can be used for single cuts. If the pipeline has a complex configuration and many connections of individual sections, then it is better not to use these tools. Pipe shears are mainly used for cutting plastic pipes.
The sharpened blade of the knife is attached to only one side of the tool. In place of the second blade there is a fairly wide base with a slot designed to receive a cutting plate.
Working with such scissors is carried out exclusively by human muscular strength. Between the handles of the scissors there is a rounded toothed rack, which, after closing the handles of the scissors, pushes the blade towards the base.
The pipe cutting process occurs as follows:
- a clearly visible mark is placed on the surface of the pipe, marking the place of the cut;
- the base is placed on top of this mark, controlling its position through the slot in the base;
- then, applying force, they cut into the pipe and, gradually increasing the force, make the final cut of the pipe.
The advantages of scissors are their fairly high efficiency and low cost design. The disadvantage is considered to be a direct connection between the effectiveness of the tool and the physical strength of the person working with it. In addition, during cutting, it is necessary to ensure a smooth movement of the brush, otherwise the blade may simply slip off the rack.
It is clear that with a large number of cuts, the hand quickly gets tired, so the speed of work is reduced. In addition, scissors cannot cut large diameter pipes. The maximum diameter of processed pipes is 42 mm.
In terms of efficiency, a pipe cutter is no worse than scissors. But, unlike them, there is practically no physical effort when working here. The cutting process itself occurs as follows:
- Place a mark at the cut site with a marker;
- the screw is unscrewed from the clamp, and the bracket is brought to the cutting site;
- then the screw is smoothly tightened (so that the pipe does not burst);
- After creating the required force on the cutting roller, the clamp begins to rotate around the pipe, smoothly tightening the tension screw.
Thus, a circular cut of the pipe is made, while the end of the pipe is very smooth, without burrs. The only danger when working with a pipe cutter is the appearance of cracks in the pipe due to too much pressure from the screw.
The guillotine pipe cutter is used to work with pipes with a diameter of 63 to 350 mm. At the same time, the likelihood of deformation or destruction of the pipe walls is reduced to almost zero. The cutting process is as follows:
- Mark the place of the cut on the pipe and insert it into the guillotine, securing it in a sector from 30 to 60 degrees;
- the guillotine blade, which is mounted on wheels, swings around it;
- After the first cut of the plastic, the blade is immersed in the pipe using a rotating screw handle and, thus, the pipe is finally cut.
In this case, the cut is very smooth, without burrs. Guillotine blades are easily replaced. Modern guillotines have blades additionally coated with Teflon.
Other Plastic Pipe Cutting Tools
They are rarely used when there is no pipe cutter at hand:
- Grinder – to cut pipes you will need a metal cutting disc. The main point when working with an angle grinder is to accurately regulate the force; you cannot put too much pressure on the tool.
- A jigsaw is the most convenient way in the absence of special scissors. There is a high probability of getting an oblique cut, so for greater accuracy during operation the pipe must be turned several times.
What is strictly not recommended for cutting pipes:
- Band saw - its blade moves too slowly and if it is not sharp enough, there is a high probability of damage to the internal diameter of the pipe, which leads to chips and cracks.
- Circular machine. Because plastic pipes are flexible, pushing them into the machine often causes the pipe to dislodge and impact, which is dangerous for the person making the cut.
Tools for processing pipe cuts
Bevel remover – designed to improve the quality of welding of plastic pipes. It is used to remove the edge or top layer of plastic pipes along the diameter.
On sale you can find chamfer removers of various designs designed to work with pipes of different diameters. When purchasing, you need to decide on the scope of work and pipe material. The tool comes with both manual and automatic feed. It allows you to adjust to the required pipe diameter and wall thickness.
Caliber – necessary for working with metal-plastic pipes. With its help, before soldering the pipes, the aluminum layer on the pipe cut is cleaned. In addition, the gauge allows you to remove burrs and cut irregularities, as well as, if necessary, chamfer.
If the pipe is slightly dented during cutting and the cut has acquired an oval shape, the calibrator will straighten the end, making it perfectly round again. A separate calibrator is required for each specific pipe diameter.
Source: http://diskmag.ru/instrument/rezat-plastikovye-truby.html
How and with what to cut metal-plastic pipes
Metal-plastic pipes are capturing an increasingly larger segment of the plumbing market, so the issue of their maintenance is becoming more pressing. There is an opinion that if it is necessary to replace such pipes, the entire pipeline must be replaced. But this opinion is wrong. The products are easy to cut and replace in parts without harming the overall plumbing or heating system. Below we discuss how to properly cut metal-plastic pipes.
Cutting methods
Cutting methods
There are several basic cutting methods, which directly depend on the tool used. First of all, you can cut products:
- Knife for efficient cutting of metal-plastic pipes. In this case, the knife should be self-sharpening.
- Hacksaw for metal. The simplest method, which, however, will require a lot of effort and time from the performer. In addition, the edges may turn out torn.
- Scissors.
- Pipe cutter.
When using some tools, the edges of the cut are quite uneven, and particles of material can subsequently cause clogging. The best way is to use special scissors that cut evenly without leaving torn edges. These scissors can cut objects with a diameter of up to 40 mm.
Important! In this case, you don’t have to put in any special effort, since the tool is specially designed for such work and has special blades. These blades easily cut through plastic pipes anywhere.
For larger diameter products, it is better to choose a pipe cutter. Pipe cutters come in telescopic and ratchet types. The first type is based on the operation of a special roller that rolls along the entire circumference. The second type is more similar to scissors, as it uses a lever system with two handles.
How to cut metal-plastic pipes
How to carry out work
Metal-plastic pipes have a number of advantages over their competitors. They are much lighter than metal and much more resistant to oxidation than copper. They are easy to replace and easy to shape into the desired shape. You can create a pipeline of any shape. Well, the main advantage is the cost. It is much lower than that of copper pipes. And the quality is approximately at the same level.
During operation, it may be necessary to cut pipes. For this, a special tool is used that is designed to work with such material. To increase the effectiveness of the procedure, it is recommended to properly prepare the pipe and tools before work. Let's look at the main features of metal-plastic pipes and how to cut them.
Preparing the pipe and necessary tools
Preparing tools
The tools used are the cutting device itself, measuring tapes, adjustable wrenches, seals and some other things. All this must be in an accessible place at the time of work.
Sometimes it is necessary to scrape the outside of the reinforced coating to make the cutting process easier in the next step. For stripping, a coupling with blades is used, which allows you to get a perfectly even cut and get rid of the polymer layer. This is necessary for welding work, which will most likely be carried out during pipeline installation.
Important! When working, it is necessary to cut off exactly as much material as is needed to attach the fitting for metal-plastic products.
Tools for cutting metal-plastic pipes
Cutting tools
The following tools will be useful in the pipe cutting process:
- Calibrator;
- Pipe bender;
- Adjustable wrench;
- Textile;
- Scissors.
It is important for the master to determine in advance what he will use to cut metal-plastic pipes. The most important tool on the list is scissors. Everything else is necessary for special preparatory work.
There is no need to apply much force during the cutting process. You just need to fully control every movement. If you do not pay due attention to control, you can easily cut off the excess part.
If during the cutting process it is necessary to bend the product, it is not recommended to do this by hand. This can easily damage the aluminum layer that is inside. It is better to take a professional pipe bender and perform the operation with its help.
Using the wrong tools on one area can affect the entire network, resulting in high repair costs.
Important! Special scissors are usually found in the welding kit. But they can be purchased separately. The price of this tool is not so high as to save on it.
Before you start cutting directly, you need to very clearly measure the part where the unit will be divided. To do this, use a tape measure or ruler, as well as a bright marker. A faded pencil may simply not be visible, especially if there is not enough lighting in the room. The mark can be made with a knife, leaving a scratch.
During operation, pieces of plastic and aluminum may fly in different directions. Therefore, it is necessary to use protective equipment in the form of glasses and special clothing.
Tools for cutting metal-plastic pipes
From time to time, metal-plastic pipes become unusable and the owner of these pipes is faced with the fact that they need to be replaced. But when replacing pipes, there is no way to do without cutting, and many people have a question about what they should actually use to cut them with. Many people still believe that only iron pipes are suitable for cutting, and plastic ones need to be replaced entirely, but this is far from the case.
This is also important for those who are going to install metal-plastic pipes with a polymer frame.
Before explaining the features of cutting metal-plastic pipes, I would like to note the reason why metal pipes are not in fashion now. This is due to the fact that metal pipes are quite bulky and heavy, and copper pipes oxidize quickly.
In the case of metal-plastic pipes, there are practically no problems with them.
Preparation
Let's get down to the main points of cutting and installing metal-plastic pipes. The first thing you need to do is choose the right tool for the job, and for this you will need a calibrator, a pipe bender, an adjustable wrench and some kind of fabric.
A metal-plastic pipe consists of a layer of plastic and an aluminum bedding, which are welded together using laser welding. The aluminum tube acts as a frame. The core of the metal-plastic tube has a very smooth surface, but before you start cutting, it is better to clean the entire surface of the pipe from irregularities.
In order to clean the surface of the pipe you will need a coupling. This process will not take you much time, but it is very important in the process of preparing the cut.
Tools and cutting techniques
Pipes are cut, as a rule, with special scissors, which are the most important technical device for cutting metal.
To cut pipes, you do not need to put in a lot of physical effort; you just need to control the process well so as not to cut off excess part of the pipe. Be careful: at the pipe junction, for an even cut, you will need a pipe bender. Only with the help of it will you be able to bend the pipe at the desired angle and cut it correctly. It is highly recommended not to bend the pipe by hand, as this could damage the important aluminum layer.
Be extremely careful, because if you use tools that are not suitable for cutting metal-plastic pipes, you can easily ruin the entire pipe, so be sure to use only specialized equipment for cutting. Also, in order to cut a metal-plastic pipe, you will need technical scissors. Scissors are usually sold with welding kits. The blades of the scissors are very comfortable, and the handle fits perfectly in your hand, so you will not experience any problems in using it.
And there is no need to split hairs. The cost of scissors starts from 300 rubles, which is not too much to save on a tool.
After this, you will have to measure the required distance and start cutting in the right place with scissors, such an activity does not require any special skills and, most likely, you can do it the first time, but if you feel that you might make a mistake, then it is better to practice on some unnecessary pipe.
Don't forget that before cutting you need to mark the place where you will be cutting. For this, a regular pencil will suit you, or you can make a mark using a grinder. The main thing when marking is not to make a very deep mark, as you may damage the pipe. Be careful when cutting as some parts of the pipe may get into your eyes.
When cutting, it is better to use special glasses to protect your eyes; they will protect you from injury.
Technical features
The ideal diameter of pipes for cutting is from 5 to 30 cm; if the volume of your pipe is more or less than these indicators, then it is better to contact a specialist. Remember that cutting pipes in cold or hot weather can have disastrous consequences.
Metal-plastic pipes are very temperature dependent and if you place the cutting points in very hot weather, then this mark may move under the influence of temperature, and then you risk cutting off an extra piece of pipe.
Before cutting, you either need to wait for the right temperature or create it yourself.
Cutting metal-plastic pipes is quite similar to cutting polypropylene pipes. If you do not have the appropriate tools, then metal-plastic pipes can be cut with almost anything, even a hacksaw, but it is better to do this with special tools. A regular serrated knife may also work. You also need to take into account the characteristics of the pipe that you are going to cut.
If you need to cut a pipe in order to completely dismantle it, then you can use almost any available tools for this, but if you want to replace it with another pipe, for example: cut part of the pipe and insert another one in place, it is better to use special scissors that were described in the first paragraph.
When cutting metal-plastic pipes, it is necessary to take into account deformation not only from temperature, but also from physical factors. If you apply too much force when cutting, cracks may spread throughout the pipe.
Of course, unlike metal pipes, metal-plastic pipes are more flexible, but they are also more susceptible to various specific deformations. Also, before cutting a pipe, you need to look at its characteristics.
If you have at your disposal the documents that you received when you purchased the pipe, you can check its characteristics.
If the proportion of metal in the pipe is greater than plastic, then for cutting you will need any device that involves less friction. If there is more plastic in the pipe, then you will need to cut at a faster pace.
You should keep in mind that standard procedure when cutting is to check to see if the pipe is currently in use, either for moving water or gas.
After cutting, you will need to blow out the pipe or rinse it (depending on the purpose of the pipe), otherwise some small debris may remain in it, which will ultimately lead to failure of both the pipe itself and the object that connected to it.
Electronic cutting is not very suitable for metal-plastic pipes due to special technical features.
For cutting, you can get by with ordinary hand tools. If you want to achieve maximum cutting efficiency, it is better to use a ribbed blade lubricated with machine oil.
Source: https://glawtruba.ru/operacii-s-trubami/chem-rezat-metalloplastikovye-truby.html
Pipe cutter for metal-plastic pipes: types, best models, instructions for use
There is no such thing as too many construction tools. Anyone who repairs professionally or as an amateur will agree with this statement. Most operations can be performed manually using a minimum of tools, but is there any point in this?
Any job is easier to handle if you choose the right equipment. And a pipe cutter for metal-plastic pipes is no exception - it is inexpensive, but significantly speeds up the process of laying pipes. But how to choose the right equipment and not get confused in the range of tools on the market?
We will examine these questions in our article, looking at the main types of pipe cutters and the best offers on the market, their features and characteristics. We will also talk about the intricacies of choosing suitable equipment and discuss the rules for cutting pipes at home.
In what cases is a pipe cutter needed?
A metal-plastic pipe is a prefabricated structure of at least 3 layers: a thin layer of aluminum - a frame, and two layers of polypropylene. The elements of the layered structure are connected by laser welding. Metal-plastic is used in plumbing work for laying water pipes, as well as for wiring the heating circuit.
The pipes are quite soft and cutting them is not that difficult. A hacksaw or even a regular knife with a serrated blade will do. Of course, it is possible to make one cut with such a tool, but not a single builder would agree to do this on an ongoing basis.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OGf65Cnkhks
Thin-walled pipes of small diameter are cut with metal scissors, but if the width is more than 40 mm, professional equipment is used
Builders also often make do with an angle grinder – an angle grinder. Yes, a metal disc easily passes through thin aluminum foil, but a lot of debris and waste remains at the workplace.
It is noisy, you need to connect the power supply, and each time clamp the pipe itself in a vice to fix it. And if you need to cut off part of an installed pipeline in a hard-to-reach place, you definitely won’t be able to get there with a grinder.
It is not advisable to cut a pipe with a non-professional tool. And this is not just a matter of difficulty in terms of physical labor. The cut is not smooth, with jagged edges and chips. It will have to be cleaned additionally, otherwise the system will malfunction.
Advantages of manual and electric pipe cutters
Tools for cutting metal-plastic pipes can be of 2 types:
A manual pipe cutter works due to the muscular strength of the person using it. It can be used in any conditions, there is no connection to the availability of power, there are no restrictions on operating time depending on the battery capacity and there are no other inconveniences associated with using a power tool.
However, no one will argue that for large volumes of work, hand tools may not be enough. This is especially true for thick-walled, large-diameter metal-plastic pipes. Of course, such materials are rare in household construction, but for a professional plumber this is a very real situation.
The tool saves employee time and effort. In addition, the human factor is excluded when it “didn’t press”, “didn’t check” or the eye failed
An electric pipe cutter with a battery is a real salvation when cutting on an industrial scale.
In the case of a power tool, a person only makes a mark where the cut is to be made, then secures the part so that the mark on the pipe and in the pipe cutter window coincide as accurately as possible, then turns on the power and gets a neat, perfectly even cut.
Of course, it's not just about convenience. The cost of a cordless pipe cutter for metal-plastic pipes is several times higher than the cost of a hand tool. No one wants to overpay, unless, of course, you use the device in professional activities almost every day.
Type #1 - ratchet pipe cutter or scissors
The easiest way to cut a piece of metal-plastic is with special precision scissors. This pipe cutter is designed for diameters up to 100 mm. The cutting element is a sharpened steel blade. The pipe is placed in a special holder - a semicircular metal holder. When the material is firmly installed, a mark is applied and a cut is made.
A pipe cutter works on the principle of scissors: by closing the ends of the handle, you lower the cutting element and make an even, smooth cut. A special gear rack-ratchet is responsible for the reverse motion of the blade. If it was not possible to make a cut in one go, it will not allow the knife to return to its original position, but will fix it to continue working. This significantly saves the worker’s effort.
The main advantage of this type of tool is ease of use and low cost. It copes with the task perfectly, the cut is smooth and precise. They can cut not only metal-plastic, but also polypropylene parts
Due to the design features of the metal-plastic pipe, the material at the end may bend and lose its shape. For leveling, use a calibrator or carry out the procedure manually.
If you plan to cut pipes only during renovations or wiring in the bathroom, there is no point in buying an expensive automatic device; precision shears with a ratchet will do. Most likely, after completing the installation of the plumbing or heating system, your pipe cutter will go into the drawer with the rest of the tools for a long time.
It's another matter if you need a pipe cutter for work. When working with scissors, your hand gets very tired; it’s difficult to handle a large volume at once alone.
For professional use, it is better to pay attention to other types of tools. In addition, this model copes well with soft metal-plastic pipes, but it cannot be called universal. If you have to cut steel or copper products, this option will not work.
Type #2 - roller tool
A roller pipe cutter for metal-plastic is much more versatile. Depending on the diameter of the “C”-shaped clip and the number of rollers, there are models for cutting small pipes (up to 50 mm) and thicker ones (up to 125 mm). When working with large diameters, models with several rollers are used.
The principle of operation of a manual roller pipe cutter is that the part is clamped in a holder, and the cutting element is located close to it. Guide rollers are placed inside the cage itself.
The worker rotates the pipe cutter around an axis, with each turn the cutter moves closer to the center. Due to the fact that the blade rotates and does not simply press on the wall of the metal-plastic pipe, the cut is cleaner.
If the handle is equipped with a ratchet, this will eliminate the possibility of “reverse motion”, that is, loosening the fixation during operation. This guarantees an even, perpendicular cut.
The advantage of this type of pipe cutter is that working with it does not require much effort on the part of the operator. Anyone who has ever made preparations for the winter and used a seaming wrench can imagine in general terms how to work with a pipe cutter for roller-type metal-plastic pipes.
One of the main disadvantages is that the cutting is carried out in jerks. They lead to minimal displacement of the part in the holder, and this entails the appearance of burrs on the cut. After cutting, you will have to process the sections of metal-plastic pipes. Expensive models have a smooth telescopic motion, which eliminates the appearance of irregularities.
Type #3 - guillotine for uniform cutting
A guillotine is a tool that cuts evenly over the entire cross-sectional area. A pipe cutter with this operating principle ensures a perpendicular and clean cut without burrs. Uniform distribution of the load eliminates the possibility of deformation of the metal-plastic pipe during operation.
There are several types of implementation of this idea. The most primitive and inexpensive option - the blade is lowered by rotating the handle and gradually lowering the rod. A more advanced model is in the form of a pistol. The guillotine lowers when the operator pulls the trigger.
This type of pipe cutter allows you to evenly cut a pipe at home. The only limitation is diameter up to 100 mm
A pipe cutter with a guillotine mechanism can handle pipes up to 100mm wide, but most models are limited to a 7cm diameter. For domestic use, this is usually sufficient.
View #4 - model with clamp latch
Another type of device for cutting metal-plastic pipes is a pipe cutter with a clamp latch. The principle of operation is similar to the roller model, the main difference is that the part is not simply clamped in a holder by turning the handle, but is fixed tightly on all sides.
Some models are equipped with a second handle, which is very convenient when working with large-diameter pipes and thick walls.
In this case, the cutting discs (usually 2 of them) are placed along the lower edge of the “C”-shaped cage. The main advantage of this type of tool is its compactness. The design can be used even in places where there is nowhere to turn, let alone rotate a large pipe cutter.
Tips for choosing the right pipe cutter
When choosing a good pipe cutter for metal-plastic pipes, it is worth finding out what functions, in addition to the main one - cutting, they may have. Some models can not only make a perpendicular cut, but also chamfer 15-30 degrees, sometimes even simultaneously with cutting. The chamfer simplifies the installation of fittings.
Roller pipe cutters can leave behind burrs - unevenness and roughness that spoil the appearance of the cut and performance characteristics.
A good tool will be equipped with a special deburring attachment. It resembles the surface of a file, is put on instead of a rotating disk blade, and the cut is processed according to the same principle as cutting - by rotating the device around the pipe.
The blade can become dull and, most often, this happens at the most inconvenient moment, when work is in full swing and you don’t want to waste time sharpening the pipe cutter. In this case, such a standard item as a spare roller will be very useful. A sharpened spare tire will always help out in an emergency.
Manufacturers conduct hundreds of tests and create many prototypes, which allow them to create a pipe cutter with an ergonomic handle, when every finger is “in its place” and the work does not cause discomfort.
Ergonomics - this criterion is one of the fundamental ones when choosing a manual pipe cutter for metal-plastic pipes. A tool that you will use often and in large quantities should be comfortable, fit well in your hand and not slip. The work is carried out with one hand, and you should not feel tired.
Budget tools for home use
Among inexpensive equipment for cutting pipes, pipe cutters of the Sturm and WMT brands are in greatest demand.
Practical equipment from the Sturm brand
Source: https://sovet-ingenera.com/santeh/tools/truborez-dlya-metalloplastikovyx-trub.html
