Can You Use Copper Pipe Cutter on Plastic? Unbelievable Truth Revealed!

When it comes to cutting plastic pipes, many people wonder if they can use a copper pipe cutter. After all, copper pipe cutters are commonly used for cutting copper pipes, and they seem like they would work just as well on plastic pipes. However, there are some important differences between copper and plastic pipes that make it important to use the right tool for the job.

Key Differences Between Copper and Plastic Pipes

• Material: Copper pipes are made of copper, a metal that is strong and durable. Plastic pipes, on the other hand, are made of a variety of materials, including PVC, CPVC, and PEX. These materials are not as strong as copper, and they can be easily damaged if they are not cut properly.
• Thickness: Copper pipes are typically thicker than plastic pipes. This is because copper is a stronger material than plastic. As a result, copper pipes can withstand more pressure than plastic pipes.
• Flexibility: Copper pipes are not as flexible as plastic pipes. This means that they cannot be bent or curved as easily as plastic pipes.

Can You Use a Copper Pipe Cutter on Plastic?

The answer to this question is yes, you can use a copper pipe cutter on plastic. However, it is important to note that using a copper pipe cutter on plastic is not ideal. Copper pipe cutters are designed to cut copper pipes, and they may not work as well on plastic pipes.

Why You Shouldn’t Use a Copper Pipe Cutter on Plastic

There are a few reasons why you should not use a copper pipe cutter on plastic.

• Damage to the pipe: Copper pipe cutters can damage plastic pipes. The blades of a copper pipe cutter are sharp, and they can easily cut through plastic pipes. If you use a copper pipe cutter on a plastic pipe, you may end up with a leak.
• Poor cut quality: Copper pipe cutters do not produce a clean cut on plastic pipes. The blades of a copper pipe cutter are designed to cut copper, and they may not be able to cut through plastic cleanly. This can result in a rough or uneven cut.
• Safety: Using a copper pipe cutter on plastic can be dangerous. The blades of a copper pipe cutter are sharp, and they can easily cut through skin. If you are not careful, you could end up injuring yourself.

What to Use Instead of a Copper Pipe Cutter

If you need to cut a plastic pipe, it is best to use a plastic pipe cutter. Plastic pipe cutters are designed specifically for cutting plastic pipes, and they will produce a clean, even cut.

How to Use a Plastic Pipe Cutter

To use a plastic pipe cutter, follow these steps:

1. Measure and mark the pipe where you want to cut it.
2. Place the pipe cutter around the pipe, and tighten the screw until the blades are snug against the pipe.
3. Rotate the pipe cutter around the pipe, applying pressure to the blades.
4. Continue rotating the pipe cutter until the pipe is cut through.
5. Remove the pipe cutter and deburr the edges of the pipe.

Final Note

While you can use a copper pipe cutter on plastic, it is not ideal. Copper pipe cutters are designed to cut copper pipes, and they may not work as well on plastic pipes. If you need to cut a plastic pipe, it is best to use a plastic pipe cutter.

Questions We Hear a Lot

• Can I use a copper pipe cutter on PVC pipe?

Yes, you can use a copper pipe cutter on PVC pipe. However, it is important to note that using a copper pipe cutter on PVC pipe is not ideal. Copper pipe cutters are designed to cut copper pipes, and they may not work as well on PVC pipes.

• Can I use a copper pipe cutter on CPVC pipe?

Yes, you can use a copper pipe cutter on CPVC pipe. However, it is important to note that using a copper pipe cutter on CPVC pipe is not ideal. Copper pipe cutters are designed to cut copper pipes, and they may not work as well on CPVC pipes.

• Can I use a copper pipe cutter on PEX pipe?

No, you cannot use a copper pipe cutter on PEX pipe. PEX pipe is a flexible plastic pipe, and it cannot be cut with a copper pipe cutter.