Journeyman Plumber ExamTools, Equipment, and SafetyMedium
A plumber is working on a commercial project requiring the installation of large-diameter steel pipe. Which type of pipe cutting tool is typically used to make clean, square cuts on schedule 40 steel pipe ranging from 2 to 6 inches in diameter?
- AReciprocating saw
- BHacksaw
- CTubing cutter
- DAbrasive cut-off saw
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Abrasive cut-off saw
For large-diameter steel pipe (2 to 6 inches), an abrasive cut-off saw (often called a chop saw or metal-cutting saw) equipped with an abrasive blade is the most efficient and effective tool for making clean, square cuts. While other saws can cut steel, the abrasive saw is designed for speed and accuracy on heavier gauge pipes.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. A reciprocating saw can cut steel but is generally less precise and slower for making square cuts on large-diameter pipe compared to an abrasive cut-off saw.
- B. A hacksaw is too slow and labor-intensive for cutting 2-6 inch schedule 40 steel pipe effectively.
- C. A tubing cutter is designed for softer, thinner-walled materials like copper or plastic, not heavy-gauge steel pipe.
Abrasive Cut-Off Saw
A power tool used for cutting hard materials like metal, often featuring a large, abrasive disc that grinds through the material.
- Ideal for cutting steel pipe and rebar
- Produces fast, straight cuts
- Generates sparks and heat
- Requires proper PPE (eye, hearing, respiration)
Memory trick: Abrasive saw: Sparks fly, pipe divides.