How to Split PVC Pipe
PVC pipe is created from a polymer of vinyl chloride and is used commonly in construction, plumbing and agriculture irrigation. Due to the low cost, durability and longevity of the pipe, it is also used to design and construct shelving and other household projects. PVC pipe will melt when placed under high-heat conditions and can shatter or splinter when caution is not taken while cutting or splitting the pipe. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Measuring tape
- Masking tape
- Pencil
- Miter box
- Wood pieces
- Bench vise
- Hack saw
- Miter saw with medium tooth blade
- Flat file
- Rough sandpaper
- Rat-tail file
- Goggles
- Dust mask
Instructions
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1
Measure the cutting length and wrap a piece of masking tape or duct tape around the pipe at the cutting point. Use the tape to mark a straight line. Mark the cutting line with a pencil and remove the tape.
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2
Secure the pipe in a miter box by wedging a piece of wood between the box side and pipe to hold it tightly. A bench vise will also hold the pipe in place but requires you to turn the pipe over once the top is cut.
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3
Cut the pipe on the inside edge of the marking with a hack saw or power miter saw that has a medium tooth blade. Cut slowly to prevent large chunks of pipe from breaking away. Cut straight and flat to limit the amount of burrs on the pipe.
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4
Sand rough burrs from the cut end of the pipe with a flat file or piece of rough sandpaper. Remove burrs on the inside of the pipe with a rat-tail file.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Wear goggles and a dust mask when cutting the pipe to prevent eye damage or inhalation of small particles.
Cut the longest pieces of pipe first to prevent wasting pipe with small cuts.
The edges of pipes must be cleaned and all burrs removed if the pipe will be glued into a fitting.
