Copper is a terrific material. It is a soft, malleable, and ductile metal that is an excellent conductor of heat and electricity. It's no wonder copper is used in so many building and construction applications! So if you are preparing for a plumbing-related project, copper piping should be at the top of your supply list. But if you are going to work with copper pipes, it is helpful to know how to adjust their lengths in order to properly match various fittings. Fortunately, it couldn't be easier! Continue reading to learn how to effectively and efficiently cut copper piping, and where to go to safely dispose your scrap copper.

Tool and Supplies:

Pipe Cutter

Round File

Getting Started

You can find all the tools and supplies you need at any local home improvement or hardware store. Rather than using a cutter, you may also choose to use a pipe slice or hacksaw. In this simple guide, we will be focusing on using a cutter tool. Hack saws are not recommended for plumbing pipe projects, and slice devices only allow you to cut one particular size. So if you have various sizes to cut, you must purchase separate devices for each diameter.

Cutter Tool

A pipe cutter allows for a hassle-free, exact, and easy fitting experience. Then again, that's what you should expect from a tool named precisely after the function it is intended to do. However, it is primarily recommended for pipes with larger diameters. For smaller diameters or thinner walls, you will want to use a pipe slice.

Step 1 - Position the pipe inside your pipe cutters. Then tighten the blade just right, being careful to not over-tighten. Over-tightening risks bending the pipe.

Step 2 - Using your hands, twisted pipe around 3 to 4 revolutions, and then remove it from the pipe cutters.

Step 3 - After removing the pipe, you should see a groove made by your revolutions. Slide the pipe back into the pipe cutters so that the groove aligns with the blade. Then secure it once again, but not too tight.

Step 4 - Begin twisting the pipe around several revolutions until it breaks free from the cutters.

Step 5 - Your pipe cutters should have a built-in burner removal tool. Use it to shave off any burrs or raised lips on the inside of your piping. If your pipe cutters do not have this tool, just use a round file instead.

Scrap Metal Recycling

Take your leftover scrap copper to a local metal recycling center! You could get paid cash for your scrap metal!