A pipecutter is a type of

tool A tool is an Physical object, object that can extend an individual's ability to modify features of the surrounding environment or help them accomplish a particular task. Although many Tool use by animals, animals use simple tools, only human bei ...

used to cut pipe. Depending on the

metal A metal () is a material that, when polished or fractured, shows a lustrous appearance, and conducts electrical resistivity and conductivity, electricity and thermal conductivity, heat relatively well. These properties are all associated wit ...

of the pipe, a pipecutter can often provide a faster, cleaner and more convenient way of cutting pipe than using a hacksaw. There are two types of pipe cutters. Plastic tubing cutters, which resemble a pair of pruning shears, may be used for thinner pipes and tubes, such as sprinkler pipe. For use on thicker pipes, there is a pipecutter with a sharp wheel and adjustable jaw grips. These are used by rotating it around the pipe and repeatedly tightening it until it cuts all of the way through.Chain pipe cutter image
/ref> They are also used to quietly remove the catalytic converters off of cars and trucks of any kind, because of their precious metals.

Pipecutters vs. hacksaws

Hacksaws will cut nearly any size pipe made out of metals and plastics. Pipecutters, on the other hand, are more limited. In the situations where they work, they are generally accepted to leave cleaner cuts on the outer surface of the tube. The cut can leave a burr around the inside of the tube. This burr should be cleaned or reamed when cutting electrical conduit to prevent stripping of the insulating coating from the wires. In fluid handling applications, the burr should also be removed, as it can restrict the flow and cause turbulence.

References

Cutting tools American inventions {{Tool-stub