How to Cut Cast Iron Pipes

There are be several ways of cutting cast iron pipes. One can either rent a cast iron pipe cracker, use a four inch angle grinder, or use a reciprocating saw. All of these methods can work and there are reasons one may be better than another.  If the pipe is underground and you have limited access, then a reciprocating saw may be your best option, but have your angle grinder handy just in case you need it to smooth an edge.

Using a cast iron pipe cracker

If you own or rent a cast iron pipe cracker, you need adequate space to use this tool.  And you need to make sure that while use the pipe cracker you don’t apply too much force that could crack an old and brittle pipe.  If space is an issue, such as when you have to dig out an old pipe, a cast iron pipe cracker may not be the best option.

Using a four inch angle grinder

Using a four angle grinder is another option, but you have to cut from each side of the pipe, not through it.  If you don’t have a lot of room there then you can’t get around the pipe well enough.  And it takes more care to create a smooth cut than alternative methods.

Recommended:  Using  a reciprocating saw

The last option and the one most recommended is to use a  reciprocating saw, or sawzall. Milwaukee blades are highly recommend for this application, specifically: “The Torch Sawzall Blades, Model # 48-10-5787.”

Here is a video by QuainBuilt that will show you how to use a standard reciprocating saw using the Milwaukee Sawzall metal cutting blade.

https://www.odesk.com/leaving-odesk?ref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3D1n7YO-lPjYk

Thank you for your interest in How to cut cast iron pipes.