Pipe cutter for polypropylene pipes: overview of types of tools and features of working with them

When installing indoor water supply, sewerage and heating pipelines, plastic pipes have to be cut in large quantities. It is not recommended to use improvised means for this due to many potential problems in the future.

For cutting you need a professional tool. And it is better to take a special pipe cutter for polypropylene pipes, the use of which guarantees an even cut without burrs.

We will tell you how to choose equipment for cutting polypropylene pipes, describe the device and principle of operation, and also outline the main criteria for choosing pipe cutters.

What tool can be used to cut plastic pipes?

Considering that people in our country are artisans, then they manage to use the most unimaginable means at hand to cut pipes. But one should not think that such cutting will contribute to the excellent quality of the future pipeline. Therefore, let’s look at the tools that allow you to cut plastic pipes more efficiently:

• hacksaw for metal;
• self-sharpening knife (with small teeth);
• scissors for cutting plastic pipes;
• roller type pipe cutter;
• battery pipe cutter;
• guillotine pipe cutter.

Cutting pipes with an alloy hacksaw or a knife should not be considered seriously, since using them leads to the end of the pipe being frayed and burrs forming, which have to be eliminated using sandpaper or stripping with a knife.

In any case, the quality of the cut suffers.

These methods can be used for single cuts. If the pipeline has a complex configuration and many connections of individual sections, then it is better not to use these tools. Pipe shears are used mainly for cutting pipes from plastic polymers.

The sharpened blade of the knife is attached to only one side of the tool. In place of the second blade there is a fairly large base with a slot designed to receive a cutting blade. Working with such scissors is done only by human muscular strength. Between the handles of the scissors there is a rounded toothed rack, which, after closing the handles of the scissors, pushes the blade towards the base. The pipe cutting process occurs as follows:

• a clearly visible mark is placed on the surface of the pipe, marking the place of the cut;
• the base is placed on top of the mark given to us, controlling its position through the slot in the base;
• then, applying force, they cut into the pipe and, gradually increasing the force, create the final cut of the pipe.

The advantages of scissors are their relatively high efficiency and low cost design.

A drawback is considered to be a direct connection between the efficiency of using equipment and the physical strength of the person working with it. In addition, when cutting, you need to watch for a smooth movement of the brush, otherwise the blade may simply slide off the rack.

It is clear that with a large number of cuts, the hand quickly gets tired, therefore the speed of work is reduced. In addition, it is impossible to cut pipes of huge diameter with scissors. The largest diameter of the processed pipes is 42 mm.

In terms of efficiency, a pipe cutter is no worse than scissors. But, unlike them, there is virtually no physical effort during work.

The cutting process itself occurs as follows:

• Place a mark at the cut site with a marker;
• the screw is unscrewed from the clamp, and the bracket is brought to the cutting site;
• then the screw is smoothly tightened (so that the pipe does not burst);
• After creating the required force on the cutting roller, the clamp begins to rotate around the pipe, gently tightening the tension screw.

In this way, a circular cut of the pipe is made, and the end of the pipe comes out extremely even, without burrs.

The only danger when working with a pipe cutter is the occurrence of cracks in the pipe due to the very powerful pressing force of the screw.

The guillotine pipe cutter is used to work with pipes with a diameter from 63 to 350 mm. At the same time, the possibility of deformation or destruction of the pipe walls is reduced to virtually zero. The cutting process looks like this:

• Mark the place of the cut on the pipe and insert it into the guillotine, securing it in a sector from 30 to 60 degrees;
• the guillotine blade, which is mounted on wheels, swings around it;
• After the first cut of the plastic, the blade is immersed in the pipe using a rotating screw handle and, thus, the pipe is finally cut.

In this case, the cut comes out extremely smooth, without burrs.

The guillotine blades are simply replaced. Modern guillotines have blades additionally coated with Teflon.

Die-cut scissors. almost jewelry work

Mainly, die-cut scissors are used for cutting round holes for chimney pipes. Because the ordinary cutting process is difficult due to the twists of the metal tiles, it is necessary to ensure uniform cuts and the absence of torn edges. Nibblers are easy to operate with this function and have the following advantages:

• Thickness of the metal being cut. The professional tool is capable of cutting steel sheets 1-1.6 mm wide. This is completely enough to work with any type of metal tile
• The comfortable handle allows you to precisely guide the movement and makes the cutting process very high quality
• The presence of a bar for even cuts. Die-cut scissors are not used if you need to cut a large number of sheets lengthwise; the purpose is to cut holes inside the sheet; if necessary, you can install an additional clamp, which allows you to make straight cuts

Is it possible to cut metal tiles with a grinder?

An angle grinder (grinder) is popular among INDIVIDUAL builders and teams. It’s not surprising that on some forums you can find advice on using it to work with metal tiles. It is even argued that its use is acceptable for carrying out this type of work. This is essentially fiction! The truth is what is said in the annotations of virtually every metal tile manufacturer. “The use of an abrasive wheel for cutting is prohibited!” Neither the metal tile manufacturer Rukki nor any other manufacturer recommends cutting this material with a grinder. Why can’t you cut metal tiles with a grinder?

Seeing a roofer with such equipment about to cut off a sheet of metal tiles can put his competence in doubt, or even better, his ability to turn to another construction team.

Sources:

https://moy-instrument.ru/instrumenty/chem-razrezat-polipropilenovuyu-trubu.html https://megabeaver.ru/materials/metallocherepica/instrumenty/chem-rezat-metallocherepicu-nozhnicami-nasadkoj-na-drel-ili -bolgarkoj.html

Other Plastic Pipe Cutting Tools

They are used occasionally, when there is no pipe cutter at hand:

• Grinder – to cut pipes you will need an alloy cutting disc. The main point when working with an angle grinder is to clearly regulate the force; you cannot put too much pressure on the tool.
• A jigsaw is a more successful method in the absence of special scissors.

There is a great chance of getting an oblique cut, so for greater accuracy during operation the pipe must be turned several times.

What is strictly not recommended for cutting pipes:

• Band saw - its blade moves very slowly and if it is not sharp enough, there is a high possibility of damage to the internal diameter of the pipe, which leads to chips and cracks.
• Circular machine. Since plastic pipes are flexible, pushing them into the machine often causes the pipe to move and cause an impact, which is unsafe for the person making the cut.

Polypropylene pipes come on sale in the form of coils or straight sections, the length of which reaches 12 meters.

It is clear that during installation it often becomes necessary to cut them with scissors for cutting polypropylene pipes, since such huge sections are not suitable for creating plumbing and heating systems. A pipe of suitable length is cut and then welded.

Types of cutting scissors:

— precision. They cut pipes with a diameter from 3 to 42 mm. They have a ratchet mechanism and a rack-and-pinion blade, so the cut goes through without much effort.

Comfortable and easy to use when working with one hand, but if the cutting is intense, the hand will quickly get tired;

- roller. In this tool, the pipe will rotate on guide rollers, and the other blade of the scissors, under pressure, feeds the cutting roller to the cut site. There is one huge advantage here - an impeccably even cut, but the cutting speed will be low;

- battery-powered. These scissors are equipped with an electric motor.

Cutting polypropylene pipes with such equipment is a pleasure, since the cutting speed is quite high - from 4 to 7 seconds. But there is also a drawback - a limited range of pipe cutting. Such equipment can only cut pipes up to 42 mm.

Guillotine pipe cutter

1. This polypropylene pipe cutter can cut pipes with diameters ranging from 63mm to 350mm. It has blades coated with Teflon, and they cut products at an angle of ninety degrees, while leaving an even cut without burrs. The blades are simply changed or sharpened.

2. This cutting method has one great advantage.

There is no need to treat the surface of the pipe before welding after cutting, because the cut comes out smooth and even, there are no deformations.

3. Guillotine cutting process. A guillotine blade mounted on wheels swings around a pipe fixed in a sector from 30 to 60 degrees. After making the cut, the blade, under the action of a rotating screw handle, goes into the pipe to the depth of the entire diameter and cuts it completely.

Which tool is better to choose?

When choosing the type of pipe cutter for polypropylene pipes, you need to start from how intensively you will use it.

If you need it for one time, then both roller and precision shears are suitable for this. But if you often need to cut pipes, then cordless shears are best suited for these purposes. You will also need a guillotine pipe cutter for this, especially if you are dealing with pipes of huge diameter.

READ ALSO: Knocking in the heating pipes of a private house, reasons for the crackling, why it knocks and clicks

But all scissors suffer from the same flaw; when cutting, the blade can move slightly to the side. On small diameters this is not such a terrible phenomenon, but when working with pipes of large diameters, such a cut requires additional processing. That is why for pipes with large diameters it is better to use a guillotine pipe cutter.

Outdoor system installation

Installation of sewerage from plastic pipes outside the building is carried out, in most cases, inside an earthen trench. This is due to:

• the need to protect the plastic sewer structure from exposure to negative temperatures;
• rational use of the surface of the earthen area; protection from possible mechanical damage.

Installation of sewerage systems outside the trench is carried out:

• in the presence of high groundwater levels (wetlands);
• rocky or frozen soil (permafrost);
• other technical limitations.

Installation of sewer pipes on the site is carried out mainly in the warm season. This makes it easier to install sewer pipes - a more comfortable climate and the presence of thawed ground.

Products for external use - red pipes, are made of polymers. Parts can be cut or trimmed in the same ways as for structures for internal use. Installation of sewer plastic pipes is carried out on our own or with the involvement of a third party.

The method - how to cut the parts when installing sewer pipes indoors or outside the building, it is advisable to think about it in advance, before starting work. Otherwise, you may not have the necessary device or tool at hand, which will significantly complicate the process of installing the highway.

Source: hemkor.ru

how to cut polypropylene pipes without scissors

In the Construction and Repair for the question METAL-PLASTIC PIPES - is it necessary to cut the special ones with scissors? The best answer given by the creator of Eurovision I cut the alloy with a hacksaw. But it was not always smooth.

Answer from Legal [guru] You can use a hacksaw.

I still use a knife handle to flare it. but keep in mind this is somewhat incorrect.

Reply from Stunted [guru] There are different methods on one website I looked at. . 2) 2nd – a knife with teeth, or as it is also called a self-sharpening knife. It is more difficult for them to cut, because there is a part of aluminum in the middle. But in the absence of another tool, you can cut it off. The disadvantages of such methods of cutting pipes are that when cutting a pipe, the plastic gets dirty, and parts of the plastic remain at the pipe joint, which can later get into the pipes and clog the filters. We don't need this. Therefore, the most reliable method of cutting metal-plastic pipes is cutting with scissors. 3) Cutting with special scissors.

I already mentioned them in the article with polypropylene pipes. At this point I want to show you again. Such scissors are sold in any construction market or supermarket, they are not that expensive and will always be needed in the house, especially if you install and maintain water or heating pipes yourself. Cutting metal-plastic pipes using this method couldn’t be easier, just clamp the pipe and cut it. The pipe is cut extremely smoothly and without any jagged edges and can be installed straight away.

Answer from Beadon Enotov [guru] No. Can.

Answer from VASILY [guru] you need to make the end even without distortions, and you can cut with whatever you can, even with a grinder

Answer from Viktor Ivanov [guru] with a hacksaw for metal.

be careful and everything will be fine

With a hacksaw, if you try, you can make an even cut, only on small diameters - 16-25mm. For installation, a device for chamfering edges is required! ! Calibrator (flaring)

an answer from Ogonyok? [guru] Even scissors give a straight cut only with similar pressure on both parts of the pipe, and this happens occasionally, so they cut with a roller pipe cutter for thin-walled pipes.

Answer from KERK [guru] They will write more horrors!

Already cut metal-plastic with a pipe cutter. Perversion. This is great when you calmly cut one pipe at home and don’t assemble the entrance. You will work until the second coming of Christ! You can cut anything! And an uneven cut is not Armageddon either. The main thing is to use a gauge after cutting (as Kot mentioned above). Although you can flare the edges with other available equipment. You can remove burrs with a sharp knife. The point is that when inserting a pipe into a fitting, its edges do not lift up the rubber sealing rings in the fitting. That's all..., as they say.

We have already written about polypropylene pipes in this article for us. Personally, I think these pipes are actually the most common, so the pipe itself, and the fittings and connections, cost a significant penny for them.

Since they are very common, I will try to tell you as much as possible about them. And now it’s an easy article to learn how to cut polypropylene pipes. It seems like an easy question, but not almost all new students know about it………

Unlike iron and metal-plastic pipes, which can be cut with an alloy hacksaw, polypropylene pipes are much softer. And cutting them with an alloy hacksaw is, excuse me for the expression, “pure perversion.”

But if you don’t have anything on hand, you can cut with an alloy hacksaw. In general, to be honest, you can cut such pipes with anything, even with a knife, it’s plastic. BUT there is a small minus: cutting polypropylene with an alloy hacksaw is acceptable. The whole point is that at the place of the cut there will be shavings that remain in the pipe and will interfere with the water clot, and this is no longer good.

Therefore, when cutting polypropylene pipes, I advise you to use special scissors.

Scissors for cutting polypropylene, come complete with almost all soldering irons for polypropylene pipes.

The scissors have a special, extremely sharp blade that sits on top, as well as a bottom holder where the pipe rests.

We simply mark the appropriate pipe size, put it in scissors and cut off the appropriate pipe size. Everything is extremely simple. It is necessary to announce that polypropylene is extremely easy to cut.

After such cutting, there are no burrs or crumbs left, only an extremely smooth surface that can be soldered right away.

Cut polypropylene with scissors, if you don’t have them, buy them, they are not cheap, 100 - 400 rubles, but they are worth it.

And for now, a short video.

Hacksaw

The first is a hacksaw. When they come to some object with a pipe and a hacksaw, they do this.

The result is straight edges. And when a pipe is inserted into a pipe, this rubber band is bitten on the edge, so plumbers have to do an additional operation, namely chamfering. This is done either with a knife, respectively, or the pipe simply rubs against the concrete, and a chamfer is obtained.

Why is this method good? It's a small instrument, relatively small. Although we see that ours is quite large and long, and without protection it cannot be moved. Well, if you want to round the edges, you will need a knife.

How to correctly solder polypropylene pipes.

Immediately before soldering pipes, you must prepare all the necessary tools.

Firstly, you need to purchase or rent a special device (soldering iron) for heating the pipes before joining them.

The soldering iron consists of a bus bar (heating element), a stand in the form of legs and a handle with a control board, and nozzles of various diameters. It works from the network.

Secondly, you need to have a tape measure and special scissors for cutting pipes (usually they come complete with a soldering iron in a suitcase).

Soldering of polypropylene pipes is carried out according to the following principle:

You need to get your soldering iron ready for work.

It is placed on a stand, nozzles of suitable sizes are screwed on, and the temperature is set to 260 º C. You need to wait about 15 minutes for the soldering iron to heat up. When the reddish indicator goes out, you can start working;

• Using special scissors, cut the appropriate pipe size;
• The pipe and the opposite socket are inserted into the nozzle on the soldering iron in opposite parts of the nozzle;
• You need to wait about 10 seconds until it warms up;
• After heating, the pipes are removed from the nozzle and connected to each other smoothly, without bending the connecting parts;
• We check the quality of the soldering and move on to the next soldering element.

Types of pipe cutting equipment

In stores, tools for cutting polypropylene (PP) pipes are offered in a variety of ways. These are both manual mechanical and electrical devices.

Each of them has its own merits. The most suitable equipment should be selected based on the volume of work and its complexity.

When choosing equipment for cutting polypropylene pipes, the main attention should be paid to two points:

1. The blade must be made of alloy steel.
2. Each pipe cutter model has two indicators - the minimum and maximum pipe size. This range should be selected so that it is sufficient to complete the work.

The body material of such equipment is usually made of metal. And it's best when it's aluminum, not steel. A pipe cutter with aluminum handles is light in weight and requires less effort to operate. Soft polypropylene pipes do not require excessive effort when cutting. An aluminum tool will cope with the resulting loads without problems.

A pipe cutter can have replaceable or non-replaceable cutters. Sooner or later they will wear out. In the second case, the tools will have to be purchased again. However, if the cutting apparatus is needed for a one-time job, then it is better to take a cheaper model with permanent equipment.

Option #1 – guillotine

The simplest pipe cutting equipment in terms of design and precise cut quality is guillotine shears. They can be manual or electric. Structurally, this is a blade lowered onto a polypropylene pipe, which makes an even cut and strictly perpendicular to the longitudinal line.

Most manual guillotines are designed for cutting tubular products with a cross-section of up to 70 mm. But some models are also capable of diameters of 100–150 mm. This is quite enough to perform installation work at home. Everything above applies to industrial equipment.

As the knife presses on the soft polypropylene, it easily rips it apart. There is no deformation of the pipe due to the sharpness of the Teflon-coated cutter and the smoothness of its movement. After cutting the polypropylene, additional processing of the end is no longer required. The pipe is completely ready for butt soldering and using fittings.

The only drawback of guillotines that is worthy of mention is the low speed of work. Each time the blade must be returned to its original position by long unscrewing the rod. But the cut turns out to be perfectly even, and for this you can twist the handle. However, if you plan to cut a lot of polypropylene pipes, then it is better to choose a different type of pipe cutter.

Option #2 – ratchet

This class of pipe cutting tool is shaped like ordinary scissors with two handles. They only have a blade on one side. The second half is made in the form of a semicircular stop, where the pipe should be placed when cutting.

They are equipped with a ratchet mechanism so that the knife moves smoothly and requires a minimum of effort.

The main disadvantages of this cutting equipment are the high probability of obtaining an oblique cut and possible collapse of the pipe. They are actually large hand scissors. You need to use them skillfully. Our website has a detailed article on how to use this type of pipe cutter. For more details, follow the link.

Due to inexperience, the slightest tilt in the hands leads to the formation of a crooked end, which then has to be sharpened. And if the pipe is also wrinkled, then it will need to be straightened from the inside with a calibrator.

Pistol pipe cutters with a ratchet mechanism also belong to this type. They are much easier to work with. You have to apply very little effort for cutting, and the cut is more even.

The return of the knife to its original position occurs entirely as a result of pressing a button due to a spring. This is the best option for cutting polypropylene pipes with thicker and harder walls.

How to solder reinforced polypropylene pipes.

At the end of the twentieth century, polypropylene pipes began to occupy a strong position in the market for plumbing equipment in their own segment.

Almost all installation organizations in Europe and the world have begun to arm themselves with this method for installing water supply systems for both hot and cool water.

At the moment, technologies for soldering polypropylene pipes are being developed and improved.

Reinforced pipe is a product of constant improvement of the properties of plumbing products. It is created using a multilayer structure method. It contains an additional layer of duralumin foil or fiberglass.

Basically, reinforced pipes have 5 layers: two outer layers of polypropylene, one central layer of duralumin foil, two intermediate layers of glue.

Reinforced pipes are soldered as follows:

To strip the pipe, a special tool called a channel is useful. If the reinforcing layer is in the middle of the pipe, then a so-called trimmer is used for cleaning.

Reinforced pipes are used to lay hot water pipes and heating systems. They can also be used for cool water, but the issue here is the cost, since reinforced pipes are slightly more expensive than conventional ones.

Preparatory stage

First you need to collect everything you need to solve the problem.

The list of tools includes:

• calibrator;
• pipe bender;
• adjustable wrench;
• any fabric.

As you know, metal pipes include a layer of plastic and an aluminum bedding. They are firmly welded together using laser welding. The frame is an aluminum tube. The core of the product is quite smooth.

However, experts still recommend cleaning the surface of the structure from possible irregularities before starting cutting.

To strip pipe products, it is necessary to use a coupling. The process of cleaning the surface of the product itself takes a little time.

Types of scissors for cutting polypropylene pipes

Hand scissors for cutting plastic pipes

Working with polypropylene pipes actually does not require special equipment: even thick-walled pipes for water pipes with high pressure are cut by hand.

For industrial work, professionals advise getting cordless pipe cutters that compensate for the force of the brush with an electric drive. Guillotine knives also reduce the size of work.

To install a local water supply or heating pipe in a bathroom or the entire system in a small private house, use hand scissors for polypropylene pipes or a hacksaw. The extreme one forms burrs on the edge and is therefore not recommended for use. Special scissors for cutting polypropylene pipes make the end clean and virtually ready for assembly.

The tool is cut using manual force.

Precision pipe cutters

Hand scissors with ratchet mechanism

The base of the tool has a simple ratchet mechanism to which a replaceable blade is attached. The cut is done with one hand: the elements laid out along the strip of the future water pipeline are cut in a few minutes. The largest diameter that precision shears for polypropylene pipes can cut is 63-72 mm, but household economical models are designed for the smallest and most common diameter in everyday life, 35–42 mm.

A similar tool is used for cutting all types of PP pipes:

• plastic;
• reinforced;
• metal-plastic.

The differences between the models are in the cutter: for PP pipes, a metal one with small teeth is used, ensuring a tight grip on the element.

When choosing a pipe cutter of this type, you need to make sure that the cutting edge is sharp and the ability to have replaceable blades if the tool is going to be used for a long time. The main feature is the ease of landing in the hand and the softness of the move: the mechanism, designed for only mechanical force, will quickly rub the palm of your hand if the handle causes discomfort during operation.

Automatic scissor gun

The operating principle of the scissors-gun is identical to the ratchet prototype, but the force applied to the pipe increases due to the transmission wheel.

The device is designed to be used with one hand; to cut, just press the trigger. This particular specimen is suitable for working with thick-walled pipes of enormous diameter.

Roller pipe cutters

The simplest roller shears for cutting polypropylene pipes are a hook with movable rollers along the inside. When cutting, the pipe gently rotates along them, while the ring knife makes a circular cut. A spring mechanism is responsible for the approach and removal of the round cutter: the force is provided by the pressure of the brush. Professionals use both hands in the work, since they have to hold both the tool itself and the valve that extends the knife.

A roller pipe cutter makes the cut more careful and puts less pressure on the pipe itself.

The blade of the roller pipe cutter is replaceable; spare parts for standard models are sold in the corresponding stores. The biggest difficulty of the process is keeping the cutter strictly at a right angle to the elbow being cut. Any deviation leads to the knife getting stuck or the pipe breaking.

Guillotines and pipe cutting machines

For professional assembly of plumbing and heating systems, manual models are irrelevant, since they do not guarantee accuracy and require significant effort.

Industrial workshops are equipped with guillotine-type machines: a sharply sharpened cutter is directed from above onto a pipe clamped in a vice. The force is generated by an electric or mechanical drive, multiplying the worker’s efforts.

The walls are protected from crushing by blanks that are pre-inserted into the assembly to be cut. In large factories, the process is automated, and the quality of the cut is guaranteed by electronic control. Such pipes do not have to be cleaned before installation: hand-made sections need to be sanded.

Which pipe cutter to choose, mechanical or electric?

When you plan to carry out installation work on laying pipes yourself, you cannot do without a cutting tool. Therefore, the question of which device is better to purchase, mechanical or electrical, is quite relevant.

Cutting pipes with a reciprocating saw. Using a manual guillotine pipe cutter at home.

For work in an apartment, a compact manual mechanical pipe cutter is more suitable, which can be used in small spaces. This will allow pipes to be cut directly at the site of their further installation.

In order for the pipeline assembly to be of high quality, you must learn how to use any of the pipe cutter models. Therefore, before making a “finish cut”, you should get your hand a little on a piece of pipe. The cost of polypropylene pipes is low, and you can always afford to buy an extra meter for such training, and in general - just in case. Such an “optional” will help you understand the principle of operation, as well as gain at least a small, but for a beginner, invaluable preliminary experience before starting installation.

Technique for cutting plastic knots

Working with PP pipes is simple, but a number of requirements for cut quality must be strictly observed:

1. Scissors for polypropylene pipes must be placed strictly perpendicular to the plane, the cut must be at a right angle.
2. Thick-walled, inelastic pipes can crack from one-sided pressure: for prevention, dense templates can be pushed into the cut area so that the knife passes between them.
3. After cutting, the nodes are immediately installed or closed with sealed plugs.

This will prevent dust and dirt from getting inside the pipe.

Cordless cutter

This is a convenient tool for cutting pipes. Among its features we highlight:

1. The product is similar to pipe cutters, but is equipped with an electric motor and a battery.
2. Operation of the tool is convenient and simple. Using it, you can quickly cut a huge number of PVC pipes. On average, one cut takes about seven seconds.
3. The cutter can only be used for workpieces with a small diameter.
4. The operation of the cutter must fully comply with safety regulations. This will prevent accidents from occurring.

For cutting small diameter pipes, this will be the best choice. Note that if we are talking about installing a sewer system, this pipe cutter is unlikely to be useful. The maximum diameter of the pipe that it can cut is forty-two millimeters.

Preparation for welding plastic pipes

To lay pipelines, it becomes necessary to perform routine operations. Working with polypropylene pipes involves:

• cutting the pipe to obtain the required length;
• stripping (trimming) of products;
• making suitable pipe bends in certain sections of the pipeline;
• making a tie-in into the main pipeline;
• correct installation of products.

Cutting tool

Polypropylene products are supplied in straight pieces, the length of which can reach up to 12 m.

To obtain the required length, polypropylene pipes are cut using special cutting equipment. All scissors designed for cutting pipes can be classified into several groups:

1. Precision with a ratchet mechanism, designed to cut products 3.0 – 42.0 mm in diameter.
2. Roller pipe cutters are the most comfortable to use. The cut comes out completely even. The pipe is cut strictly at 90°.
3. Cordless shears are powered by a small electric motor and allow you to make high-quality cuts at high speed.
4. Guillotine pipe cutters are used for cutting products with a huge diameter (up to 350.0 mm).

Working with cutting equipment does not cause problems even for novice craftsmen.

In the absence of a special cutting tool for PP pipes, you can use an ordinary alloy hacksaw.

In this case, the acquired cut will need to be additionally carefully cleaned of chips and burrs.

Cleaning and trimming cuts

To ensure reliable connection of products with each other or with fittings, it is necessary to clean the ends of the pipes, which consists of removing a small layer of polypropylene from the outside, as well as the intermediate reinforced layer from the edge of the pipe.

The “cleaning” tool, which is presented in a wide range, ensures work with products of various diameters from 16.0 to 110.0 mm. For ease of working with different diameters, strippers are produced on both sides.

When laying a water pipeline using PP pipes with classic reinforcement, it is convenient to use a shaver made in the form of an attachment for a drill.

Enders are provided to remove the middle layer of the product (aluminum reinforcing foil).

Using this tool, the inner layer is cut from the edge of the pipe to the desired heating depth. The devices are simply adjusted to the desired diameter using adjustable knives.

Connection to the highway

Tapping with a tee

There are several available ways to insert into a polypropylene pipeline:

1. With the use of a tee.
2. With the use of the collector.
3. Non-soldering method using a flange.

Insertion into a polypropylene pipe without soldering is carried out in the following steps:

1. A section of pipe is prepared onto which a pipe of the required diameter is installed.
2. Next, a blank is cut from this section, which must cover the pipe into which the insertion is made.
3. A hole is drilled in the main line pipe across the diameter of the pipe.
4. The hole drilled for the pipe around its own circumference, as well as the inner side of the flange, is extremely painstakingly coated with sealant.
5. A flange is placed on the pipe with the hole and firmly installed using clamps.

When tapping into a water supply system operating without pressure, clamps can be omitted, and the flange can be secured using ordinary electrical tape.

Briefly about the drainage system

The sewerage system is a description of all components and the principle of operation of the system as a whole and for individual units. Subdivided:

• Internal – located in the building.
• External - laid outside buildings.

Internal

Internal sewage system:

• Plumbing fixtures (sources of dirty water): toilet, bidet, washbasin (kitchen sink), bath (shower), washing machine and dishwasher.
• Siphons and connection elements (transition couplings).
• Outlet pipes Ø 30–50mm. For toilet 100mm.
• Transition elements: fittings and couplings, check valve, revision.
• The main riser is an element that collects wastewater from all sources into one sewer pipe. The collector diameter should not be less than 100mm.

Installation of a sewage system indoors is regulated by regulatory documents: SNiP (Sanitary Norms and Rules) 3.05.01–85 “Internal sanitary systems.”

Outdoor

The external system includes:

• Sewage line made of pipes Ø 100–200 mm (for individual housing).
• Overflow (inspection) wells.
• Couplings, fittings.
• Wastewater receiver (cesspool, septic tank, biotreatment station).

The installation of sewerage outside the building is regulated by SNiP 2.04.03–85 “Sewerage. External networks and structures."

General characteristics of polypropylene pipes

It is worth mentioning that polypropylene is synthetic and has many positive qualities. This is light weight, high elasticity, heat resistance and zero susceptibility to corrosion, which is extremely important for plumbing. This is a type of plastic, but with a low density, which makes it so lightweight.

Soldering polypropylene pipes is simple, having a minimum of tools, which we will talk about later, as well as fittings (special small parts of different shapes made of polypropylene) that act as connectors.

If we talk about the main advantages of polypropylene in more detail, the following points stand out clearly:

Durability - the service life of such a cavity, if cool water is supplied through it, is 50-60 years, in the case of hot water - 30-40 years.

These characteristics are even higher than those of various analogues.

Heat resistance

In addition to the general features of water pressure pipes made of polypropylene, it is worth knowing one more factor - heat resistance.

The fact is that polypropylene is a type of plastic and there is a temperature limit inside the system at which the area is damaged or melts.

The maximum operating temperature of PP pipes is 140 degrees Celsius. This means that if the water is very hot, there is a risk of breaking the integrity and even the soldering of polypropylene pipes (the joint) may not withstand.

But when developing the pipes under discussion, they are assigned their own marking, which indicates certain properties, such as: heat resistance, wall thickness, permissible pressure in the system and areas of implementation. Thus, two common markers are distinguished:

PN 20 is the most popular type of pipe, withstands a pressure of 20 atmospheres and a temperature of 95 degrees Celsius.

These characteristics allow use in laying water pipes for the use of hot and cool water, but not in heating systems.

Thermal elongation

Another property of polypropylene pipes is their ability to elongate as the temperature inside the water supply increases.

It looks like sagging of long sections of the water supply system, or wave-like deformation. For this reason, it is necessary to correctly solder polypropylene pipes and it is not recommended to make long straight pipes in the water supply system, but to use compensators (pipe insertion in the form of the letter “P”). Then, during thermal elongation, the “legs” of the compensator will come closer together, and the pipe will not deform.

Soldering polypropylene pipes in hot systems also involves the use of reinforced ones, this will reduce the risk of thermal elongation and deformation.

Reinforcement

And the extreme in the properties of polypropylene cavities, which is worth mentioning, is reinforced, because they have already been discussed in the text.

It is important to reinforce pipes, because this involves the inclusion of duralumin foil or nylon fibers in their composition, which increases the strength, hardness, heat resistance and service life of water pipelines made from this material.

Soldering reinforced polypropylene pipes is as simple as simple ones; installation is carried out using the same tool, only the melting temperature when fastening sections of water pipes with fittings is different.

Materials

PE pipes are generally made from high-density polyethylene, also known as low-density polyethylene or HDPE. However, internally, HDPE is also divided into numerous grades, of which pipe grades of polyethylene are designated, for simplicity, by numbers corresponding to the gradation of density and packaging of macromolecules after the abbreviation PE. The simplest grades, which are practically no longer used for serious tasks, are PE32 and PE63, which have weak strength characteristics.

The PE80 brand was not so long ago the main one; it can be used for pressure water supply at positive temperatures. Pipelines made of PE100 are among the most durable today and are suitable for any application, even at high pressures. Among the disadvantages of PE100 and PE above 100 (PE100+), which is also beginning to be actively used, is their high density and, accordingly, the weight of the pipeline.

In addition to the described types of polyethylene for pipes, the previously mentioned cross-linked PEX, as well as reinforced polyethylene, are also used; their strength characteristics are higher. Pipes can be reinforced with polyamide, polystyrene or PVC fibers. This happens directly during extrusion in the forming tool of the line, which, of course, complicates the technical process and increases the cost of the equipment.

Required Tool

So, we figured out the qualities of polypropylene pipes, looked at the classification of this one, its advantages over others. Now let's talk about the tool that is needed to solder polypropylene pipes and install water supply.

The first and most common tool for assembling plumbing is scissors.

But, we are not talking about ordinary scissors, but special ones that need to be used to cut the object being discussed. This tool is also called a pipe cutter. With its help, you can cut the pipe smoothly, without roughness or burrs, wasting a minimum of effort and time.

The second tool is a soldering iron, or as it is also called, an “iron”. This tool comes in 2 configurations:

1. Cylindrical soldering iron;
2. Soldering iron with sword tip.

There are no big differences between them, but it is wiser to take soldering irons with a sword-shaped tip, because... They heat up faster and distribute the temperature more evenly. By the way, it is better to choose an “iron” with the ability to regulate the heating, because the exact temperature for soldering polypropylene is extremely important.

The price of this tool varies depending on the material from which the welding machine is made.

If the iron's attachments are covered with Teflon, it costs more. But it’s much easier to properly solder polypropylene with such a device, and you’ll avoid problems that arise due to inexperience.

In this case, it is worth paying attention to the configuration of the soldering iron, because the set includes attachments of various diameters with which you will solder polypropylene. Pay attention to the diameter of the water pipes and be sure to check that the kit includes the nozzles or nozzles you need.

If you do not have the ability to get special equipment, then you can solder polypropylene pipes without a soldering iron, but this requires some practice and the process of installing the water supply will become somewhat more complicated.

The most common method. The only drawback is that the cut may turn out crooked, to avoid this, it is better not to cut straight away, but to turn the pipe 3-6 times. It will look something like this:

Installation

The installation of internal sewerage and external mains is in many ways similar. The difference is in the materials used. For internal sewer systems, gray-painted collectors are used. The outer ones have an orange tint. This is due to the difference in external loads:

1. Products located indoors are subject to their own weight and, periodically, the load from flowing liquid. Thermal heating is added to 60–90°C with a parallel chemical attack from the components of the effluent.
2. Parts located outside the building are subject to:
   pressure from the mass of the covering soil;
3. exposure to the weight of passing vehicles;
4. experience forces from buildings located above;
5. exposed to external temperature changes, from negative to positive.

Hence, the installation of internal sewerage is carried out with a predominance of polymer materials:

• PVC (polyvinyl chloride). More precisely, unplasticized PVC (PVC-U).
• HDPE (low density polyethylene).
• PPR (polypropylene).

The most in demand are PVC products. Installation of internal collectors is carried out by joining the narrowed part of the pipe and the expanded part (socket). Additional elements are used - fittings (reducing couplings, tees, elbows with an angle of 45° and 90°, bends).

Installation of sewer pipes is carried out with obligatory observance of the angles of inclination:

• For a Ø 50mm collector, the slope will be 2–3 cm per linear meter of length.
• For a product Ø 100mm, about 1–2 cm per 1 meter.

During installation or repair work, there is a need to cut a plastic part. Polymers do not have high hardness and strength compared to metal products. Therefore, they can be processed with most metalworking and mechanical tools. It is possible to cut a plastic pipe using:

• hacksaws for metal or with fine hardened teeth;
• triangular file;
• jigsaw (for diameters not exceeding 50mm);
• circular or reciprocating saw;
• grinder and other tools.

Installation of sewerage systems is carried out according to the rules based on the requirements of SP 30.13330.2012. In addition to observing the slopes, it is necessary to correctly distribute the points of attachment and connection. If technically possible, it is recommended to carry out hidden wiring.

Installation of sewer pipes indoors begins:

• from drawing up a work plan;
• execution of a sketch or drawing;
• determining the required dimensions of the collector;
• procurement of the necessary material;
• preparing a tool with which you can cut a plastic part.

At the end of the installation stage, the internal sewage system is checked visually. Next, it is necessary to flush the system with water in order to identify possible product defects or leaks.

Design and principle of operation of tools for cutting polypropylene pipes

To work with large diameters, roller pipe cutters are used.

If we talk about scissors, they are used for cutting pipes with a diameter of up to 40 mm; they can be manual or electric. The cutting blade in this device is placed on one side, the design is similar to a small guillotine. The cutting element is made of high quality steel. On the side opposite to the blade there is a stop with a special semicircular recess into which the pipe is laid. Manual scissors for cutting polypropylene pipes are usually equipped with a ratchet mechanism. They allow you to make a clear and smooth cut, but with intensive use the hand gets tired quite quickly.

The cordless tool is the same as scissors, in which the pressure on the blade is not carried out manually, but with the help of a small but massive electric motor.

The resulting cut remains of high quality, the separation takes a minimum of time, and the hand does not actually get tired. It makes sense to use a cordless pipe cutter if you need to frequently work with polymer pipes. Such a device will be appreciated by professional plumbers or builders.

Working with scissors for cutting polypropylene pipes, both manual and battery-powered, is quite simple - the pre-marked workpiece is placed in a special recess, after which it is cut with a tool blade strictly according to the mark.

The pipe then does not need additional processing, since after using scissors the cut surface comes out smooth and even.

Bulgarian

More financially secure plumbers carry a small grinder. I'm not talking about Bosh, I'm talking about some cheaper one. Now I will set it up for myself. And accordingly we cut the pipe.

The method is faster than the first one. Using it results in smoother edges. This, of course, also depends on where the hands of the one who is sawing are from, but the edges turn out to be smoother.

There is one drawback compared to the first method - it is a chamfer. The chamfer ends up with such burrs, and these edges have to be processed additionally. Well, that'll do. But the grinder becomes overgrown with such cobwebs, chacha, and it is quite difficult to clean it.

Dimensions of sewer red products

Today, red pipe products are produced in the following sizes:

• length: 1-6 m;
• diameter: 110-500 mm;
• wall thickness: 3.2-14.6 mm.

For indoor installation, smaller diameter pipes are chosen; for outdoor installation, large products are needed.

The most common are PVC channels with a diameter of 110, 160 (between buildings) and above 200 (along the street) millimeters. An external sewer system made of pipes with a cross-section of 110 mm is installed if required:

• removal of wastewater outside residential premises;
• installation of a sewerage network in low buildings and cottages;
• arrange a surface drainage system as a continuation of point and linear drainage.

The table shows the size values ​​of some red pipes.

How to cut a sewer pipe

A red PVC pipe with a diameter of 400 mm has a wall of 9.8 mm; 500 – 12.3 mm.

Note! The wall thickness is developed and selected in accordance with the diameter of the product. This value affects the permissible pipe laying depth.

For example, for a channel with a diameter of 20 cm and a wall thickness of 3.9 mm, the depth is 4 m; 4.9 mm – 6 m; more than 5.9 mm – 8 m.

Guillotine Rothenberger ROCUT XL 125

The cutter is manufactured by the same manufacturer as the previous model. Suitable for use in any part of the pipeline. The blade has a V-shape, which facilitates the process of cutting workpieces. It is made of alloy steel. The cutting edge angle is optimized, making the tool even easier to use.

The lower clamping device of the guillotine cutter is convenient. It folds completely. Therefore, you can use this pipe cutter even in cramped trench conditions. The model is suitable for cutting pipes with a diameter of up to one hundred and twenty-five millimeters. Can be used to work with workpieces made of all types of plastic.

The tool has proven itself well. Among models of a similar type, it stands out due to its versatility and ease of use. Blade replacement is quick and efficient. If you decide to opt for a guillotine-type cutter, this option will be the most optimal.

Roller pipe cutter RIDGID 154-P

The tool is manufactured by the American company RIDGID Tools. Pipe cutters are the key products of the manufacturer. The model in question is suitable for cutting workpieces with a diameter of 50 to 110 millimeters.

This tool has a fast feed mechanism for the cutting roller. It returns to its initial position in a second. This saves time when doing a lot of work.

Adjustment to a specific workpiece diameter occurs quickly. The handle has space for a spare roller. You don't need to spend a lot of time replacing the cutting element. The roller is made of alloy steel. It is characterized by a long service life.

The X-CEL handle is ergonomic. Therefore, when using the tool, your hands do not get tired quickly. Overall, the model is practical to use and easy to maintain. It is ideal for professional use.