Skip to main content
Stesso
Project

Cut and Prepare New Pipe Sections — Cut the Pipe

Beginner4 hours

Part of project

How to Solder Copper Pipes for a Permanent, Watertight Joint · Step 2 of 9

Helpful?

In this video

Measure and cut new sections of copper pipe as needed. Use a deburring tool to smooth the sharp edges on both the inside and outside of the cut pipe. Mark the pipe with a marker to indicate the proper insertion depth for the press fittings, ensuring a complete and secure connection.

Goal: Prepare new copper pipe for installation.

  • Deburring the outer edge prevents the O-ring inside the press fitting from being cut or damaged during insertion.

Used in this video

  • Pipe Cutter (brand: Unspecified) — Making clean, square cuts on copper pipe.
  • Deburring Tool (brand: Unspecified) — Smoothing the inside and outside edges of the cut pipe.
  • Tape Measure (brand: Unspecified) — Measuring the required length of pipe.
  • Marker (brand: Unspecified) — Marking the insertion depth on the pipe.
601.4K views25.7K5 minutes
Got2Learn

613K subscribers

View Channel

FAQs

What type of torch is best for soldering copper pipes, and how do I know I'm applying enough heat?

The K Tool International Self Igniting Propane Torch Head is sufficient for most residential copper pipe soldering. You'll know you're applying enough heat when the pipe and fitting are hot enough to melt the Oatey Safe Flo Lead-Free Solder *by touching the pipe*, not the flame. The solder should then be drawn into the joint by capillary action.

What are the critical safety precautions I must take when soldering pipes indoors?

Always have a fire extinguisher nearby and remove any flammable materials from the work area, especially when using a torch. Ensure good ventilation to disperse solder fumes, and wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from splashes or heat. It's also crucial to turn off the main water supply before starting to avoid accidents and ensure pipes are dry.

Is it really necessary to deburr, ream, and thoroughly clean the pipes before soldering?

Absolutely. Deburring and reaming with a tool like the Husky 1-5/8 in. Inner/Outer Reamer ensures a smooth pipe interior for optimal water flow and prevents solder from being blocked. Thorough cleaning with sandpaper and applying Oatey H-20 Flux are critical to remove oxidation, allowing the solder to properly bond and create a strong, watertight seal.

What are the most common reasons a soldered joint might leak, and how can I avoid them?

Leaks often occur due to insufficient cleaning, inadequate heat application, or not using enough solder. Ensure pipes are shiny clean before applying Oatey H-20 Flux, heat the joint evenly until it can melt the solder, and feed enough solder to completely fill the joint. If a joint leaks, it must be desoldered, thoroughly cleaned, and resoldered.

Transcript
Hide

of that copper pipe bud. I use an inside-outside barrel reamer sometimes. It gets the inside of the pipe on one end and the outside on the other. It's recommended to deburr the outside whenever you're using a press fitting. That way you don't cut the o-ring when the pipe

Auto-generated transcript. May contain errors.