4 Advice to Choose a Pipe Cutting machine

Choosing the right clamshell cutter for a pipe cutting or beveling application is one thing. Yet, even with the best machine, if you don’t understand the tooling options available, you risk getting poor results and causing damage to the machine or pipe.

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So, what are your options? And how do you choose?

The four key areas that determine the type of tooling needed are the pipe’s wall thickness, the material, the tool profile required, and whether to opt for inserted tooling instead of standard tooling.

1. Choose Tooling to Suit the Pipe Wall Thickness

If you intend to cut a pipe, you will need a sever tool that includes enough distance from the tip of the tool bit to the shoulder. This should be greater than the wall thickness of the pipe. A standard tool length is 3 ½”, while 7” is available for thicker wall piping above 30mm (1.18”). When beveling, the cutting edge of the tool should be long enough to make contact with the full thickness throughout the beveling operation.

2. Choose the Right Grade of Tool Steel

When cutting and beveling tough metals, you should select tools in a material strong enough to handle the job. Two common grades are as follows.

M2 Tooling

Standard tooling is normally a grade M2 tool steel. M2 is the most widely used industrial high-speed steel – often used for twist drills, reamers, broaching tools, milling tools, taps and metal saws. For durability, M2 includes Tungsten (6.15%), Molybdenum (5%), Chromium (4%), Vanadium (1.8%), and Carbon (0.85%).

T15 Tooling

If you intend to cut or bevel tough metals such as Super Duplex Stainless Steel, or super alloys. You should consider a stronger grade of tooling such as T15. This grade of high-speed steel provides a combination of high resistance to wear, bend strength, and high impact toughness – all which help towards a longer tool life.

The chemical composition of T15 differs to M2 through the addition of Cobalt (5%), and increased amounts of Tungsten (12.25%), Carbon (1.6%), and Vanadium (4.9%). Also included is Chromium (4%), unlike M2 grade steel where Molybdenum is not used.

3. Choose the Right Tool Profile

Before we look at tool profiles, if you are new to this topic, here is an explanation of why pipes are beveled, and their different profiles.

Why Pipes are Beveled

The end of a pipe is beveled to prepare it for an item such as a flange to be welded onto it. The flange then allows connection of other items such as a valve, pump, tee, or bend.

The ends of each item need to be prepared for welding by machining. This enables both pieces to fit together accurately, and it also creates a groove to accept a welded bead of metal around the joint. Creating this groove increases the surface area of the weld site and results in stronger welds that are able to handle more stress.

There are various shapes of pipe bevel used, these are dependent upon the pipe thickness and the welding process which may be automatic or manual.
The image below shows some commonly used pipe edge treatments used for weld preparation.

Plain V-Bevel and Compound V-Bevel

The plain bevel, also known as the V groove, is the most common bevel shape. The V shape is created using 30°, 37.5°, and 45° degree angles. Most include a small ‘land’ which is an unbevelled section that remains at 90 degrees to the exterior of the pipe. Both plain bevel and compound bevel edge treatments are used in both automated and manual pipe welding processes.

J-Prep and Compound J-Prep Bevel

By comparison, the J Prep Bevel, or so-called ‘Tulip Bevel’ requires less material to be machined and less volume of welding material. This process is often described as ‘narrow gap welding’. This method can also be adopted for manual or automatic welding.

The J Prep can be used on light and heavy-walled pipe, whereas the Compound J Prep is suitable for heavy-walled pipe only.

Inside Bevel – Counter Boring

When the inside of a pipe needs machining the process is called counterboring. This ensures the ‘land’ (contact area) is the same width over the full circumference of the pipe.

Tooling for a Clamshell Cutter: Common Profiles

Many different types of tooling for a clamshell cutter are available to achieve the required weld prep profile. Some common tooling types are shown in the image above.

Sever Tools

Sever tools are usually supplied in pairs. One to make the leading cut, and the other (which is positioned at 180° to make the follow-up cut. Standard tool lengths for wall thicknesses up to 30mm are 3 ½” long. 7” length tools are recommended for thicknesses over 30mm (1.18”) and up to 57mm (2.25”).

Beveling Tools

Common weld prep profiles are available in left-hand and right-hand options. Profile types include straight bevel, compound bevel, j prep, j prep bevel, compound j prep, double bevel.

Custom Tooling

On some special projects, onsite engineers may prefer tooling that’s purpose-designed. Some tooling manufacturers can provide this service on request.

4. Consider Standard vs Inserted Tooling

Standard HSS (High Speed Steel) Tooling

Standard tools for sever and beveling can be reground and reused for cost efficiency. This can be done in-house (provided somebody has the skills), or they can be sent back to your specialist machining supplier.

Inserted Tooling

The alternative is inserted tooling. In the short term this is more expensive as you are paying for an inserted tool holder. The inserts are relatively inexpensive and are easy to replace when worn. The advantages of inserted tooling are as follows.

• Longer-term cost-effectiveness
• Convenience when cutting difficult materials, superalloys, or pipes with an Inconel lining.
• Flexibility due to the many different insert material types available.
• Inserts can be selected to avoid contamination of the pipe material.

Need help choosing tooling or clamshell cutters? Get in touch with an Enerpac Machining Specialist.

Glossary of Clamshell Tooling Definitions

Cutting pipes accurately is essential for installing and maintaining utility distribution networks. As specialist providers for the water, gas and utilities sector, Hy-Ram offers a range of pipe cutters designed for different materials, sizes, and applications.

To help you understand exactly which types of pipe cutters are suitable for different types of pipes, we’ve created this essential breakdown of the tools available and which materials they’re most effective for.

What are pipe cutters?

Pipe cutters are specialised tools designed to cut through pipes made from various materials, including metal, plastic, and composite materials. 

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These tools are engineered to provide smooth, accurate cuts on cylindrical surfaces and come in various forms, from handheld tools to hydraulic-powered machines, each tailored to specific materials and pipe sizes. 

Pipe cutters work by applying controlled force around the pipe’s circumference, either manually or through powered mechanisms, ensuring a clean, perpendicular cut that minimises burrs and deformation.

Pipe cutting considerations in the utilities sector

In the utilities sector, pipe cutters are essential for maintaining and constructing infrastructure, particularly in water, gas, and wastewater systems. Accurate and efficient pipe cutting is critical when laying new pipelines, or repairing and replacing sections of older piping. 

An operative must consider many aspects when selecting the correct tool or equipment, including material, wall thickness, operating pressure of the pipeline, compound within the pipeline, operation being completed, risk factors, clearance, and other utilities.

With decades of experience, Hy-Ram can offer the relevant support and guidance for any project or operation. Hy-Ram provides sales, hire and repair services for most pipe cutting equipment, allowing us to work in a manner which suits you.

A guide to choosing the right pipe cutters for your project

1. Plastic pipe cutters

Plastic pipes, particularly polyethylene (PE), are commonly used in gas and water distribution.

Here’s a rundown of the different plastic pipe cutters available and when you might choose to use them:

• PE secateurs & cutters: Compact tools for small-diameter PE pipes, providing clean, precise cuts.
• Guillotine cutters: Ideal for larger PE pipes, offering smooth cuts up to 315mm without burrs.
• Manual rotary cutters: Provide 360° rotation for even cuts on medium-sized PE pipes.
• PE hand saws: 18” PE saw for manual cuts, suited for limited-access areas.

1. Metallic pipe cutters

Metallic pipe cutters are robust and ideal for cutting through metallic pipe materials such as steel, copper, ductile and cast iron to leave a clean edge. 

These types of pipes are commonly used in water, sewage and underground fire suppression lines thanks to their high tensile strength, longevity and reliability.

We provide a range of pipe cutting tools perfect for your infrastructure applications:

• Hinged cutters: Designed for cast and ductile iron, covering a wide range of diameters.
• Copper tube cutters: Precision tools for smaller, thin-walled copper pipes.

1. Multi-purpose pipe cutters

We understand that many of our customers require pipe cutters for mixed material projects, which is where our multi-purpose cutters come in. These cutters can handle pipe materials from PE, PVC, ductile and cast iron, and AC (asbestos cement) pipes, providing enhanced flexibility for a variety of applications. 

Here’s a little bit more about each of our multi-purpose pipe cutters:

• Keel cutters: Hydraulic power and blade options for various materials including ductile and cast iron, as well as steel, PE and AC (asbestos cement). With models to cover from 75mm to mm outside diameter.
• PowerGrit: Petrol or hydraulic saws specialised for ductile and cast iron, as well as PE and AC [(asbestos cement) hydraulic only] in remote or field applications.
• Fein powered hacksaw: Pneumatic, efficient for quick cuts in mixed materials up to 325mm.
• Small diameter pipe crackers: Suitable for breaking smaller cast iron, AC and clay pipes.
• Large diameter pipe crackers: Wheeler hydraulic cutters for large cast iron, AC and clay pipes up to 24 inches.

To help you find the right type of cutting tool for your project, we’ve compiled this easy-to-use table based on pipe type.

Case Study: How PSR Pipelines use Hy-Ram’s pipe cutting solutions

Not only do we offer industry-leading pipe cutters for purchase, we’re also equipped to support the UK utilities sector with hire, repair and training services. We recently had the pleasure of heading to South Wales to support PSR Pipelines with keel cutter training. Here’s how they use our equipment and support to provide exceptional service…

Who are PSR Pipelines? 

PSR Pipelines is a South Wales based company, offering services in civil engineering and utilities. We cover all areas of the UK, working with various clients to install and maintain infrastructure. Our capabilities enable us to provide full turnkey services, taking projects from start to finish.

How do you use our products/services and what impact has this made?

We use many of Hy-Ram’s tooling products, which has helped speed up the process of our works and lower the impact to communities. We’ve recently completed keel cutting training with the Hy-Ram team’s support so we can continue exceeding the expectations of our clients.

Why did you choose Hy-Ram? 

We chose Hy-Ram as they offer a very fast, honest and reliable service. We’ve worked with Hy-Ram for over 5 years and have built a strong working relationship with them. We trust Hy-Ram to provide high quality pipeline equipment.

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Would you recommend us to others in the sector?

Yes, we would definitely recommend Hy-Ram to others, based on the reliability, quality and professionalism of the business and the fact that they go above and beyond to meet our requirements. 

What other tools do I need for cutting pipes?

In addition to pipe cutters, we offer a range of related tools to make the process easier, safer, and more precise. 

Pipe clamps and holding tools

These ensure stability for clean cuts, especially on large pipes or during fieldwork. By holding the pipe firmly, you get a safer and more accurate cut.

Underpressure drilling equipment

Need to make a connection without shutting off water or gas? This equipment lets you drill into live mains seamlessly, a game-changer for utility projects.

Hydraulic power packs

Essential for powering heavy-duty keel cutters, power packs provide consistent pressure for quick and efficient cutting through thick ductile iron or steel. They’re ideal for handling tougher materials where you need precision and power.

Flow control valves

For those using hydraulic pipe cutters, flow control valves help regulate the water or coolant flow during the cut, preventing overheating and ensuring smooth operation, especially in field environments.

Deburring tools

After a cut, these tools smooth out the pipe edges, removing any sharp burrs or irregularities. This is essential for fitting or welding pipes and makes handling much safer for operators.

Each of these tools can enhance your pipe-cutting tasks, allowing for precision, safety, and time efficiency. For more options, check out our entire range of products here.

Start your pipe cutting project with Hy-Ram

Ready to tackle your next pipe cutting project? Whether you’re laying new pipelines, maintaining existing infrastructure, or handling emergency repairs, Hy-Ram provides the tools and expertise to make every job seamless.

Contact us to discuss your requirements of Pipe Cutting machine(it,in,vi). Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.