How to cut copper piping

The use of copper in DIY projects is still trending in 2018. However, for the best results it is important to know how to properly cut copper piping and sheets, just follow our simple guide for tips.

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Cutting copper- the preparation:

A copper pipe is clamped with screw clamps ready to be cut by a Bosch multifunction tool — Here's what you need to get started

Here is what you need to cut copper pipes and sheets:

Multi-function tool
Multi-function tool saw attachment
240 grit metal sandpaper
Metal shears
Ruler
Sanding block
Pen
Acetone
Cloths
Work gloves
Face mask
Ear protection
Protective googles

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Mark the desired dimensions for the copper pipe or sheet:

First mark with a pen, at which point you want to cut the copper pipe
To cut the copper, mark the desired cutting line on the copper sheet at the beginning

Next measure the copper piping or sheets with a ruler or a set square and mark the desired cut line with a pen.

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Cutting Copper - Here's how:

Securely clamp the copper pipes before cutting them
The easiest way to cut the copper sheet is with metal shears

Once you've drawn a line where you want to cut the piping, you can start cutting. Make sure to clamp the copper pipe to your worktop and put on protective googles, work gloves, ear protectors and a face mask. Then cut the copper with a multi-function tool and saw attachment, making sure to cut along the marked line.

To cut copper sheets, cut along the marked line using metal shears. However, you may need to use an angle grinder if the sheet is thicker. Don’t forget to secure the sheets with screw clamps so they don’t slip.

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Sanding and deburring the cutting edges:

A copper tube is clamped with two screw clamps, the saw edge is ground with a blue sandpaper. — Sand the edges for a smooth finish

On the newly cut edges, you will often find small metal splinters or notches that have been left behnd, called burrs. You can smooth and remove these with a sandpaper. Take a fine grain size, for example 240, so you don’t damage the material during the sanding process. The easiest way to sand the corners and edges is by hand, using a sanding block for larger surfaces.

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Clean the copper:

The copper tube is cleaned with acetone and a cloth. — After cutting, clean the copper with acetone and a cloth

Before you continue working with the material in your DIY project, clean it with acetone or a metal cleaner and a cloth. Spray the tube or put some acetone on the cloth and remove the dirt.

Your copper is now ready for creative DIY projects!