Because of their durability and strength, galvanized pipes are frequently used to supply running water in different types of homes. We’ll go over everything you need to know about cutting galvanized pipes today and show you three different techniques you can use at home.
How to cut galvanized pipe? There are multiple ways you can cut galvanized steel pipes, which include using pipe cutters, hacksaws, angle grinders, sawzalls, and various other tools.
You can easily cut through these pipes if you select the right tool for the job and know how to use it.
Table of Contents
What You’ll Need
Thankfully, you only need a few basic tools to complete this task, and chances are, you already have all of them in your toolbox. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Pipe cutter, angle grinder or hacksaw
- Bench vise
- Circular file
- Tape Measure
- Marker
- Safety goggles
- Work gloves
How to Cut Galvanized Pipe?
Step 1: Measuring the Pipe
It’s important to take precise measurements for your pipe before you begin. You can skip this step if all you’re doing is removing a bad section of piping from already-installed plumbing.
However, you should take precise measurements if you’re adding a new pipe or if you’re using galvanized piping to build something like a sports net or a bike rack.
When measuring, remember to allow extra length in case you need to thread the pipe’s end(s). Use your marker to mark the area all the way around the pipe’s circumference after taking your measurement.
Step 2: Cutting the Pipe
Depending on the project you’re working on and the tools you’re using for it, this step can vary quite a bit.
For instance, if you need to remove an existing pipe from a tight space, you’ll probably need to use an angle grinder or pipe cutter. You can use a pipe cutter, angle grinder, or hacksaw to cut new pipe, depending on which tool you feel most comfortable using.
How To Cut Galvanized Pipe With Pipe Cutter?
Galvanized piping can be cut in the simplest and least labor-intensive manner by using a pipe cutter. If you took a measurement, you should tighten the pipe cutter onto the pipe at that location. If not, affix the pipe cutter wherever it is most convenient for you.
To put the pipe cutter’s cutting wheel to work, spin it around the pipe after you’ve secured it to it. Before the cut is complete, the pipe cutter may need to be rotated 10–20 times around the pipe, depending on the thickness of the pipe you’re working with.
How To Cut Galvanized Pipe With Angle Grinder?
Using an angle grinder is your best option if you don’t have a pipe cutter on hand. Using safety equipment is essential because you’ll be cutting metal, which means sparks and metal shavings will likely be flying through the air.
When working with metal, at the very least, you should put on gloves and safety glasses. I also enjoy donning work boots, long sleeves, and pants to protect myself from flying metal shavings.
New pipe should be clamped into a bench vise when being worked on to maintain stability. You are now prepared to start your cut.
Turn on the angle grinder while holding it parallel to the pipe. At the line you marked, start cutting through the pipe. The grinder should be pushed through the pipe with even, light pressure.
How To Cut Galvanized Pipe With Hacksaw?
The next best thing to having a pipe cutter or angle grinder on hand is your trusty hacksaw.
A hacksaw blade with a TPI of 14 to 18 is what you should use. When cutting multiple pieces of pipe, blades with a higher TPI will quickly wear out and make it difficult or impossible to cut through the pipe.
Prior to starting to cut the pipe, clamp it into a bench vise. Then, starting at the mark you made, start cutting the pipe with firm, even strokes away from your body.
How To Cut Galvanized Pipe With Sawzall?
Here is a step-by-step tutorial on how to properly use a Sawzall to cut galvanized pipes so that you can complete the task while keeping your hands safe.
- Step 1: Set your Sawzall’s action to orbital to begin with. This will enable the reciprocating blade to move in a circular motion in addition to the usual push-pull movement. An orbital movement is what determines how a reciprocating saw/Sawzall blade cuts. It demonstrates how the blade moves in and out in a wriggling, circular motion. The saw can cut across the galvanized pipe fairly quickly and easily using this motion. Orbital action, on the other hand, might not deliver the desired results if you need precise cuts. The Sawzall blade must be perpendicular to the surface of the pipe in order to make an exact cut.
- Step 2: Once your motion is prepared, position the blade behind the shoe slot and secure it. The blade is the most important part of a Sawzall, and it should be inserted carefully. Near the saw’s tip, you can find this slot between the openings. By lifting the key and re-inserting the blade, you can lock the blade.
- Step 3: Now you can concentrate on changing the saw’s speed. Cutting speed is almost as important to a Sawzall as the blade. When changing the speed, make sure your hands are always clear of the blade. Turning the Sawzall off entirely before adjusting the speed is a useful tip. Faster speeds expedite the task, but it is best to begin slowly to avoid accidents. Make sure you configure your Sawzall correctly before using it if it doesn’t have a speed trigger.
- Step 4: You can now start cutting the galvanized pipe with the saw after double-checking the earlier steps. Ensure that the blade of your saw is perpendicular to the surface of the pipe for a clean cut.
You’ll initially experience strong vibrations. Until you find stability, make any necessary adjustments to your body. The Sawzall should continue to be used perpendicularly while you keep a firm hold on the pipe. You can gradually speed up the blade and begin pushing down once you have a firm grip on the weapon.
Step 3: Cleaning Up Your Work
Your pipe will probably have a burred edge from using a pipe cutter, angle grinder, or hacksaw, making it challenging to attach fittings. Additionally, it poses a risk to your safety because the pipe’s edge can be easily used to cut yourself.
Use a round metal file to smooth out the inside and outside of the pipe to remove the burr and leave a nice, smooth edge.
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Our Tips
To get the most accuracy, make sure you are measuring and marking your steel on a flat surface. Wearing appropriate safety gear, such as thick leather gloves and safety glasses, is strongly advised throughout the process. Wear a breathing mask if you intend to sand any galvanized metal because you don’t want to inhale any metal dust.
Have a list of the specific tools and safety gear you will require before beginning the project to ensure a successful cutting process.
FAQs
How to Cut Galvanized Pipe in Wall?
To cut galvanized pipe, use either a tube-cutting tool, a reciprocating saw, or a hacksaw. You must first secure the vice-like tool around the pipe before tightening it to the point where it cuts through the pipe to use a tube-cutting tool.
You must sand down any burrs after cutting it with a rounded file.
How to Cut Galvanized Pipe in Tight Space?
Heavy-duty steel pipe and tube cutters are usually the easiest to use, but for tight spaces, an angle grinder or reciprocating saw may be needed.
When using a metal pipe cutter, center the blade around the marked area on the galvanized pipe and turn the handle to make the wheel cut deeper into the pipe until it is severed.
How to Cut Galvanized Steel?
First, use a bench vice with the guidelines facing up to tightly clamp the sheet of galvanized steel. Use a circular saw equipped with a 7-inch fiber blade to cut the galvanized sheet while still adhering to the rules.
Use a steel reamer to go over any rough edges and smooth them out.
Final Word On Cutting Galvanized Pipe
Every beginning plumber or do-it-yourself craftsman needs to be able to cut pipe, which is a basic skill.
Fortunately, cutting galvanized pipe is much simpler than it appears to be. While it is always best to seek the advice of a professional or expert when undertaking projects or renovations involving galvanized steel, you can cut galvanized metal with ease.
If you use the advice in this article, you’ll be able to finish your next project involving galvanized pipe quickly.