Pipe and Tube Cutters for Plumbing, Fabrication and Automotive Work

Pipe and tube cutters create controlled cuts across compatible plumbing, HVAC, electrical, fabrication and automotive materials. Choose the cutter for the exact material, outside diameter, wall thickness and available access. One design is not suitable for every pipe or tube.

Match the cutter to the material

• Wheel-type tube cutters: commonly cut compatible copper, aluminium, brass and selected steel tube by progressively tightening around the work.
• Compact and automatic cutters: suit restricted spaces and a defined pipe diameter or range.
• Telescopic and quick-adjust cutters: cover wider diameter ranges while retaining controlled wheel feed.
• Ratcheting plastic-pipe shears: cut specified PVC, PE or conduit; confirm material, diameter and temperature limits.
• Chain and exhaust cutters: wrap around compatible larger or installed tube where access prevents a conventional frame.
• Internal cutters: cut from inside compatible pipe for drain, floor or repair work using the specified drive tool.
• Hose and conduit cutters: use blade geometry intended for flexible or non-metallic materials.

Capacity, wall thickness and cut preparation

A stated outside-diameter range does not guarantee suitability for every wall thickness or material grade. Mark the cut squarely, support the work and allow space for the cutter body to rotate. For wheel cutters, apply gradual pressure rather than forcing the wheel, which can flare, crush or spiral the cut.

Replacement wheels and blades

Match replacement parts to the exact manufacturer and model. Cutting wheels may be material-specific, and blades, pins or anvils are not universally interchangeable. Replace chipped, flattened or excessively worn cutting components and follow the manufacturer’s adjustment procedure.

Safe use and finishing

• Isolate pressure, fluid, gas and electrical hazards before cutting installed services.
• Wear suitable eye and hand protection and control sharp cut ends.
• Keep fingers outside ratchet, blade and closing-handle paths.
• Deburr and clean the cut as required for the joint or fitting system.
• Do not use a cutter on hardened, pressurised or live material outside its rating.

Explore Pliers and Hand Tools for related gripping and workshop equipment. Confirm material suitability, diameter range, wall-thickness limits, replacement-part number and warranty on the product page.

Pipe cutters from stocked trade brands

Compare cutters and replacement components from Knipex, Bahco, OX Tools, Toledo, HIT, SP Tools, Spear & Jackson, Garrick Herbert, Sutton Tools, MVRK, Trax and IFS.

Pipe cutter FAQs

Can one cutter handle copper, steel and plastic pipe?

Not necessarily. Select a cutter whose published material and capacity ratings cover the exact pipe.

Why does a wheel cutter produce a spiral cut?

Misalignment, excessive pressure, a damaged wheel or poor support can cause tracking problems. Stop and correct the setup.

Do replacement wheels fit every cutter?

No. Match the replacement part to the exact manufacturer and model.

Should cut pipe be deburred?

Follow the pipe and fitting system requirements; many installations require internal and external burr removal before assembly.

Industrial Shed support

Industrial Shed provides Australia-wide shipping, Mornington Peninsula local delivery, in-store pickup and product-selection assistance through its trade services.