Cut the Cast Iron Pipe — Support the Pipe
Part of project
How to Connect a PVC Drain to a Cast Iron Pipe · Step 3 of 9
In this video
Using a reciprocating saw with a metal-cutting blade, carefully cut through the cast iron pipe at your marked locations. Keep the saw steady and let the tool do the work. Be prepared for the process to take several minutes per cut. As you get close to cutting through the bottom of the pipe, expect water and debris to splash out. You can use a plastic bag to shield your face from the worst of the spray. Cut completely through the pipe on both ends of the section you intend to remove.
Goal: Cut through the cast iron pipe in two locations
- Cutting cast iron is slow and generates sparks and debris. Wear your PPE at all times.
- Be prepared for significant splashing when the blade breaks through the bottom of the pipe. Holding a plastic bag or wearing a full face shield can help.
- It's a good idea to use an old or disposable blade for this job, as cutting cast iron is very hard on blades.
Used in this video
- Reciprocating Saw (Sawzall) (brand: Ridgid, Tool Type: Power Tools, Power Source: Battery) — Cutting through the heavy cast iron pipe.
- Metal-Cutting Reciprocating Saw Blade (brand: Diablo, Tool Type: Cutting tools) — The consumable cutting edge for the saw, designed for metal.
- Safety Glasses (Tool Type: Safety equipment) — Protecting eyes from sparks and metal fragments.
- Respirator Mask (Tool Type: Safety equipment) — Protecting from inhaling metal dust.
- Gloves (Tool Type: Safety equipment) — Protecting hands during the cutting process.
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FAQs
What are the most important safety precautions when cutting cast iron pipe?
When cutting cast iron, always wear 3M Professional Chemical Splash/Impact Safety Goggles, MCR Safety BearKat Safety Glasses, and a 3M P100 Household Respirator to protect against dust and debris. Cast iron is heavy, so ensure the pipe is well-supported with 2 in. x 4 in. dimensional lumber before and during cutting to prevent injury or damage.
Do I need a special blade for cutting cast iron with a reciprocating saw?
Yes, a standard reciprocating saw blade will not work effectively on cast iron. You will need a Milwaukee 12 Amp SAWZALL Reciprocating Saw equipped with a DIABLO 9 in. Diamond Grit Reciprocating Saw Blade for Cast Iron Cutting. This specialized blade is designed to cut through the hard material efficiently and safely.
How do I properly support the cast iron pipe to prevent it from falling after I cut it?
Before making your cut, use 2 in. x 4 in. dimensional lumber to create temporary supports on both sides of the cut line. Secure these supports to a stable surface, ensuring they can bear the pipe's weight and prevent any movement, cracking, or collapse during the cutting process.
Why is a shielded flexible coupling recommended for connecting PVC to cast iron, and how do I install it correctly?
A shielded flexible coupling creates a durable, leak-free seal between cast iron and PVC, accommodating slight differences in pipe diameter and vibration. Ensure both pipe ends are clean and deburred before installing the coupling, then tighten the stainless steel bands evenly to the manufacturer's specified torque using a TEKTON 7/16 in. Nut Driver.
Cut the Cast Iron Pipe — Support the Pipe
Part of project
How to Connect a PVC Drain to a Cast Iron Pipe · Step 3 of 9
In this video
Using a reciprocating saw with a metal-cutting blade, carefully cut through the cast iron pipe at your marked locations. Keep the saw steady and let the tool do the work. Be prepared for the process to take several minutes per cut. As you get close to cutting through the bottom of the pipe, expect water and debris to splash out. You can use a plastic bag to shield your face from the worst of the spray. Cut completely through the pipe on both ends of the section you intend to remove.
Goal: Cut through the cast iron pipe in two locations
- Cutting cast iron is slow and generates sparks and debris. Wear your PPE at all times.
- Be prepared for significant splashing when the blade breaks through the bottom of the pipe. Holding a plastic bag or wearing a full face shield can help.
- It's a good idea to use an old or disposable blade for this job, as cutting cast iron is very hard on blades.
Used in this video
- Reciprocating Saw (Sawzall) (brand: Ridgid, Tool Type: Power Tools, Power Source: Battery) — Cutting through the heavy cast iron pipe.
- Metal-Cutting Reciprocating Saw Blade (brand: Diablo, Tool Type: Cutting tools) — The consumable cutting edge for the saw, designed for metal.
- Safety Glasses (Tool Type: Safety equipment) — Protecting eyes from sparks and metal fragments.
- Respirator Mask (Tool Type: Safety equipment) — Protecting from inhaling metal dust.
- Gloves (Tool Type: Safety equipment) — Protecting hands during the cutting process.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most important safety precautions when cutting cast iron pipe?
When cutting cast iron, always wear 3M Professional Chemical Splash/Impact Safety Goggles, MCR Safety BearKat Safety Glasses, and a 3M P100 Household Respirator to protect against dust and debris. Cast iron is heavy, so ensure the pipe is well-supported with 2 in. x 4 in. dimensional lumber before and during cutting to prevent injury or damage.
Do I need a special blade for cutting cast iron with a reciprocating saw?
Yes, a standard reciprocating saw blade will not work effectively on cast iron. You will need a Milwaukee 12 Amp SAWZALL Reciprocating Saw equipped with a DIABLO 9 in. Diamond Grit Reciprocating Saw Blade for Cast Iron Cutting. This specialized blade is designed to cut through the hard material efficiently and safely.
How do I properly support the cast iron pipe to prevent it from falling after I cut it?
Before making your cut, use 2 in. x 4 in. dimensional lumber to create temporary supports on both sides of the cut line. Secure these supports to a stable surface, ensuring they can bear the pipe's weight and prevent any movement, cracking, or collapse during the cutting process.
Why is a shielded flexible coupling recommended for connecting PVC to cast iron, and how do I install it correctly?
A shielded flexible coupling creates a durable, leak-free seal between cast iron and PVC, accommodating slight differences in pipe diameter and vibration. Ensure both pipe ends are clean and deburred before installing the coupling, then tighten the stainless steel bands evenly to the manufacturer's specified torque using a TEKTON 7/16 in. Nut Driver.