On the subject of the process of DIY Plumbing, cutting your pipes thoroughly and sensibly is commonly a challenge that most property owners can't figure out how to solve. This summary has been written to assist you with some options for cutting hefty cast iron pipes. Remember many solutions often do require a particular piece of equipment, while others are attainable with simple tools and may even require a dilligent hacksaw.
*Please Note: Cutting cast-iron pipe can be a very unsafe task if not done right. Always follow the instruction manual of your supplies even before beginning to use them, and make certain that you put on any recommended safety apparel such as safety eye glasses, facial masks, etc.
Option 1 - The Pipe Cutter and Beveler Approach.
Without question the least difficult manner to cut into cast-iron piping, is by making use of a specialized tool known as a Pipe Cutter. This equipment is oftentimes pricey, and have a very limited use. The typical procedure here is to fasten the Pipe Cutter to the cast-iron pipe, and continuously turn the Cutter over the pipe while the blade constructs an increasingly deeper cut all the way into the pipe. After the pipe has been sliced, you can use a Pipe Beveler to provide the tip of the pipe with a nice fresh finish so that it accommodates into future piping.
Option 2 - The Less Expensive & Coarse Hack Saw
Certainly the cheapest pipe cutting tactic is to use a hack saw. This method may very well take prolonged periods of time and you will very likely go through a several blades. However, in terms of expenses, you cannot do better than this choice, as the value of a appropriate blade is typically under $10, versus the possible several hundred dollars you will probably pay for a Pipe Cutter and Beveler. If you decide for this option, try using a Tungsten Carbide blade, since this will offer you with the most intensity and will slice through a lot better than a typical blade.
Option 3 - The Powerful Sawzall
Yet another low-cost option is to use a reciprocating saw (also known as a "Sawzall"). If you currently have possession of a reciprocating saw, then it's just a matter of acquiring a Tungsten Carbide blade. This is just like an easy to use alternative of using a hacksaw. A effective guideline when using this procedure, is to keep a bottle of water close by so you can keep your blade damp during the process. This will provide you with extended blade life.
Option 4 - The Sharp Angle Grinder
In conclusion, if all you have sitting around is your older angle grinder, you can still successfully cut piping! Simply obtain a cutting disk at your local hardware store, and remove any hazardous products. An alternative effective word of advice here is to apply a protective facial mask. Angle grinder disks might possibly become detached during the procedure, so be certain you are well covered from harm.