Trystan Casey
Flexible metal electrical conduits are used to shield electrical cables, panels, and other equipment from damage. Cutting flexible metal electrical conduit is easy, and there are several ways to do it. This article will discuss the different methods and tools that can be used to cut flexible metal electrical conduit and the advantages and disadvantages of each method.
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What You'll Learn
Using a handsaw
To begin the cutting process, secure the end of the conduit with the tang of a tape measure. Place the hacksaw blade over the cut point, ensuring it is facing upward, and carefully saw through the pipe diameter. Once the end of the conduit is in the desired shape, cut off the marked edge and any broken convolutions. It is important to work slowly and carefully to achieve a smooth, even cut.
As you cut, gently rotate the conduit up and down to facilitate the blade slicing through the entire pipe. You may need to use a vise to keep the conduit in place and maintain control. This method can be physically demanding, especially when cutting a large amount of conduit or making multiple cuts, in which case a powered handsaw may be preferable.
After cutting the conduit, use a reamer to remove any burrs that have formed inside the pipe. Smooth out the edges with an industrial-quality file to ensure a safe and proper fitting.
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Hacksaws
To use a hacksaw to cut a flexible metal electrical conduit, first secure the conduit in a vice or with a clamp to prevent movement and ensure a straight cut. Mark the desired length of the cut with a measuring tape and a permanent marker, then wrap a piece of tape around the conduit at the cut line to guide the blade. Place the hacksaw blade on the cut line and grip the conduit with one hand while holding the hacksaw handle with the other. Use long, steady strokes and gentle downward pressure to cut through the conduit, rotating it up and down as the blade cuts. It is important to work slowly and carefully to ensure a smooth, even cut.
After cutting, the conduit may need to be deburred or smoothed with a file or angle grinder to create the best possible edge for effective fitting. Clean up your work area thoroughly and safely when finished.
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Powered handsaws
Next, you will need to choose the appropriate blade for cutting metal conduits. A blade with 18 to 32 teeth can be used. It is important to ensure that the blade is sharp and suitable for cutting metal. Applying a lubricant can also help reduce friction.
Once you have the appropriate blade, place it on the cut line and secure the conduit in a vise or with a clamp to prevent it from spinning while you cut. You may also need to use a reamer to get rid of any burrs that form within the pipe during the cutting process.
Then, gently squeeze the trigger to start the saw's blade moving and apply gentle downward pressure. Keep the saw under control as you cut to ensure a smooth, even cut. Finish the cut by allowing the saw to work its way through the material.
Finally, you can use an industrial-quality file to smooth out any rough edges on the conduit after cutting.
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Pipe cutters
To use a pipe cutter, first, secure the conduit in an elevated vise or clamp. Then, place the pipe cutter around the conduit and tighten it until the blade is lightly pressing against the conduit's surface. Rotate the cutter around the conduit, tightening the grip with each rotation. This will slowly cut through the conduit, eventually shearing it off.
When selecting a blade for the pipe cutter, consider the type of conduit being cut. For flexible metal conduits, a blade with a fine tooth or a high number of teeth per inch (TPI) is recommended. This helps prevent the blade from becoming entangled and splitting. Lubricating the blade can also help achieve a smoother cut.
It is important to prioritize safety when using pipe cutters or any other tools to cut flexible metal electrical conduits. Always wear appropriate protective gear and ensure that the work area is secure and well-lit.
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Grinders
There are two main types of grinders that can be used for cutting flexible metal electrical conduit: angle grinders and reciprocating saws. Angle grinders have a rotating disc or blade that can be adjusted to the desired angle, making them versatile and easy to use. Reciprocating saws, on the other hand, use a back-and-forth, push-and-pull motion to cut through the metal. Both types of grinders can be effective, but it is important to choose the right blade for the material you are cutting and to take the necessary safety precautions.
When using an angle grinder, it is important to test the blade for any defects or wobbling before cutting. This can be done by running the grinder at full speed for one minute without any material. It is also important to protect yourself from sparks and debris by wearing a face shield or eye goggles. Angle grinders can create a lot of sparks, so it is crucial to use them in a safe location away from flammable materials.
Reciprocating saws are another powerful tool for cutting flexible metal electrical conduit. They use a push-and-pull motion to cut through the metal quickly and efficiently. To use a reciprocating saw, mark the cut line with a measuring tape and a permanent marker. Then, wrap a piece of tape around the conduit to guide the blade. Choose an appropriate blade for the type of conduit you are cutting, such as a bi-metal blade for various types of conduit or a carbide-tipped blade for fiberglass.
Overall, grinders are a versatile and effective option for cutting flexible metal electrical conduit. By selecting the appropriate blade and taking the necessary safety precautions, you can efficiently cut through the metal and ensure a precise and smooth finish.
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Frequently asked questions
You can use a fine-bladed hand hacksaw, a band saw, a pipe cutter, a powered handsaw, a grinder with a thin metal cutting wheel, a cordless grinder with a cut-off blade, a Sawzall, a can opener tool, tin snips, bolt cutters, ratcheting cable cutters, or a specialised tool like the Roto-split.
Secure the end of the conduit with the tang of a tape measure. Then, with a hacksaw blade resting over the cut point, saw through the pipe diameter. When the end of the conduit is in proper shape, carefully cut off the marked edge and any broken convolutions. Gently rotate the conduit up and down as the blade cuts until the hacksaw has sliced all the way through. Work slowly and carefully to ensure a smooth, even cut.
Use diagonal cutters, dikes, or a reamer to smooth out any jagged edges.
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