A pipe cutter is a hand or powered tool that cuts drainage pipes to length cleanly without spalling or splintering. For PVC-U pipe, common cutters include rotary wheel cutters and shear-type cutters for diameters up to 110mm. For clay and cast iron, chain pipe cutters with hardened cutting wheels are squeezed around the pipe and ratcheted closed to score and snap. Selection of the correct cutter matters because rough cuts leave burrs that catch debris, and uneven cuts produce poor joints. Operators should wear cut-resistant gloves and safety glasses in accordance with the PPE at Work Regulations 2022. Some powered units use diamond blades for cast iron, requiring water suppression for dust control under COSHH 2002 and the manufacturer's instructions.
Pipe cutter (PVC, clay, cast iron)
Hand or powered tool that cuts drainage pipes to length cleanly.
