How to Cut Cast Iron Pipe

Bollywood78

Editor

posted on 13 years ago — updated on 1 second ago

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Cast iron pipes were used before the invention of PVC pipe and was the choice for main stacks and waste drains. Many older houses still have these pipes and you may need to replace them. This article will teach you how to cut cast iron pipe.

Steps

Using Snap Cutters

Use chalk to mark cut lines on the pipe. Make the lines as straight on the pipe as possible.

Wrap the chain of the snap cutter around the pipe as evenly as possible. Ensure that there are as many cutting wheels as possible against the pipe.

Apply pressure onto the handles of the cutter so the wheels cut into the pipe. You may need to score the pipe several times before you can make the final cut. You may need to rotate the pipe slightly before making the final cut if you are cutting replacement pipe on the ground.

Repeat these steps at all other chalk lines.

Using a Reciprocating Saw

Fit your saw with a long metal cutting blade. Many of these blades are made with carbide grit or diamond grit for cutting through hard items.

Use chalk to mark your cut lines. Mark the lines as straight as possible. Hold the pipe firmly in place. It may be easier to have another person hold it in place for you.