copper pipe cutting

[klhitman]

i work in hvac and have the need to cut 1 3/8 pipe in close quarters, i have a chain cutter but doesn't cut very well. i have about a 3 inch spot to cut the pipe any suggestions? and it acr soft copper if that helps. i find that a grinder and a debugger works OK but i need something better!!!

 

[Randy_che]

Those oscilating multi-tools are great for stuff like this. They come in cordless now too.

 

[gc427]

Sawzall or a small hacksaw.

 

[gorilla]

This sounds like a good application for a small air powered panel saw. Harbor Freight sells them cheap.

 

[londonsteve]

as it's only 1.3/8 copper just use a hacksaw blade

 

[Stuey]

There are a few 12V cutting tools perfect for this.

 

[Torque1st]

I have always just used a muffler & tailpipe cutter. Just makes sure you go easy and all the cutters are tracking.

 

[klhitman]

as it's only 1.3/8 copper just use a hacksaw blade

sorry don't even have room for a hack saw. next time i have to do that i will try to tack a pic and show you all. i have used a sawzall in the past but you cant get a fitting back on to the pipe. i wonder if and oscillating cutter would do the same? and did i mention it is soft copper?

 

[Torque1st]

Sometimes a person has to cut the pipes back to where they CAN get at them.

A hacksaw blade can be used without the frame. There are blade holders for that use or you can just wrap some tape or slip some tubing over part of the blade for a handle. Do not use the ALL HARD hacksaw blades for this purpose. They are brittle and shatter.

 

[Dark Horse]

Wheeler rex 4991 cutter
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B001BNTD62/?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[nate379]

Grinder with a 6" cutoff wheel. 4.5" will work but barely

 

[Hlidskjalf]

Grinders, hack saws, and sawzalls are out of the question for cutting refrigeration tubing (assuming you are not just demolishing).

I have never come across a close quarters 1 3/8" cutter. Taking a picture of where you're working would help for suggestions.

 

[klhitman]

Grinders, hack saws, and sawzalls are out of the question for cutting refrigeration tubing (assuming you are not just demolishing).

I have never come across a close quarters 1 3/8" cutter. Taking a picture of where you're working would help for suggestions.

thanks. and i will try to take a pic the next time that job comes up in my shop but they are few and far in between.

 

[klhitman]

Wheeler rex 4991 cutter
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B001BNTD62/?tag=atomicindus08-20

i think those will do it. i just have to get my boss to buy them.

 

[nate379]

Why do you say that? Like I said that is what I use.

Grinders, hack saws, and sawzalls are out of the question for cutting refrigeration tubing (assuming you are not just demolishing).

I have never come across a close quarters 1 3/8" cutter. Taking a picture of where you're working would help for suggestions.

 

[Basskiller]

Why do you say that? Like I said that is what I use.

The copper shavings are non condensable. It can really screw up your HVAC system.

To the OP, you may want to do some reading here. http://hvac-talk.com/vbb/