How to Cut Galvanized Steel Pipe

A variety of pipes in older homes may be made of galvanized steel. Today, most pipes used are made out of polyvinyl chloride (PVC). To replace these old galvanized pipes, you will need to cut them out of the place they are in and install PVC pipes. Cutting galvanized steel pipe can be tricky because unlike most steel you can cut with a torch, galvanized steel will give off unsafe fumes when cut with a torch. Cutting galvanized steel pipe can be easily and safely done with a pipe cutter.

Things You'll Need

• Pipe cutter
• Protective eyewear
• Gloves

Instructions

Cutting Galvanized Steel Pipe

1. Purchase a pipe cutter at your local hardware store. Pipe cutters will vary by the size of pipe they can cut.

2. Position the open end of the pipe cutter over the galvanized steel pipe you want to cut.

3. Screw the knob clockwise until the pipe cutter end is tight on the galvanized pipe.

4. Hold the knob on the pipe cutter and rotate the pipe cutter around the pipe clockwise two to three times. Then rotate the pipe cutter around the pipe counterclockwise until the pipe is completely cut through. You may need to tighten the cutter knob as you cut through the pipe.

5. Unscrew the pipe cutter by turning the pipe cutter knob counterclockwise. Remove the pipe cutter and follow the steps again to cut any other sections of pipe that need cutting.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear protective eyewear and gloves.