How to Cut Stainless Steel Tubing?

Answer 1

If you are doing a building project at home or elsewhere, chances are at some point you're going to have to use stainless steel tubing. Stainless steel tubing is a very resilient material to use for projects that require piping. However, you may be new to using it. If you are, read the steps listed below to learn how to cut stainless steel tubing.

There are basically two methods you can use to cut stainless steel tubing. You can use a tube cutter or an abrasive cutoff saw. Using a tube cutter is best suited for stainless steel tubing that has relatively thin walls.

To use a tube cutter, start by opening up the cutter's jaws. You can do this by cranking the handle counterclockwise. Place the opening of the curved blades over the part of the tube you want to cut. Use a pencil to mark this spot ahead of time.

Now you will do the actual cutting. Do so by cranking the cutter's handle clockwise. As the handle cranks, the blades will close in and cut into the tubing. When the blades touch the tube the first time, stop cranking the handle. Next, crank the handle of the cutter once all the way around in a single movement.

As you continue cranking the handle, tighten it by a half a crank for each revolution that the cutter makes around the tube. Keep doing this until you are finished cutting.

An abrasive cutoff saw should be used to cut stainless steel tubes with thick walls. You should only attempt to use a cutoff saw on a piece of stainless steel tubing after it has been placed in a vise. You should also wear eye goggles and thick gloves for protection.

After you turn on the saw, move it very slowly over the tubing as you cut it. Do not force the saw down into the tubing. You should let it cut slowly for safety reasons and to get the cleanest cut. You should also be careful when you remove the cut pipe. The cut metal will be extremely hot.

If there is any clinging metal left after the sawing, use a metal file to file it clean.