In this article, we will explore this question and provide some insights on achieving angled cuts using a ratcheting cutter.
Understanding ratcheting cutters
Before delving into angled cuts, it’s essential to understand the basics of ratcheting cutters. Ratcheting cutters are handheld tools specifically designed for cutting pipes made of plastic, such as PVC. They are popular because of their efficiency and ease of use. With a ratcheting cutter, you can quickly cut through PVC pipes by simply squeezing the handles together, activating the ratchet mechanism that gradually cuts through the pipe.
Straight cuts with a ratcheting cutter
Ratcheting cutters excel at creating straight cuts in PVC pipes. Their sharp blades, combined with the ratchet mechanism, allow for clean and precise cuts without much effort. By positioning the cutter at the desired location on the pipe, you can easily create straight cuts by squeezing the handles together repeatedly until the pipe is severed.
Challenges of cutting angled pieces
While ratcheting cutters are effective for straight cuts, cutting angled pieces presents a unique set of challenges. Creating an angled cut typically requires the pipe to be positioned at an angle in relation to the cutter’s blades. Achieving this positioning manually can be tricky, as PVC pipes have a tendency to slip or roll when applying pressure.
Using a miter box or guide
To overcome the challenge of cutting angled pieces using a ratcheting cutter, one option is to use a miter box or guide. A miter box is a tool that features slots or guides where the pipe can be secured at a desired angle. By placing the PVC pipe in the appropriate slot or guide, it remains steady, allowing for accurate and controlled cuts.
By aligning the ratcheting cutter with the angled edge of the miter box or guide, you can proceed to cut through the PVC pipe by incrementally squeezing the handles. The miter box or guide acts as a stabilizer, preventing the pipe from slipping or rotating during the cutting process.
Alternative tools for angled cuts
While a ratcheting cutter can be used in conjunction with a miter box or guide for angled cuts, there are also alternative tools available that may be more suitable for such tasks. For example, a hacksaw or a PVC pipe cutter with rotating jaws can provide more flexibility when it comes to cutting angled pieces efficiently.
A hacksaw can be used by manually guiding the blade along the marked angle on the PVC pipe. It requires patience and precision to achieve a clean angled cut, but with practice, it can be a viable option.
PVC pipe cutters with rotating jaws, on the other hand, are specifically designed to cut PVC pipes at different angles. This tool works by clamping the pipe securely in its rotating jaws, allowing you to adjust the angle as needed. By using the tool’s ratchet mechanism, you can make precise angled cuts with relative ease.
In summary, while ratcheting cutters are not specifically designed for cutting angled pieces from PVC pipes, they can be used in combination with a miter box or guide to achieve this task. However, alternative tools such as hacksaws or PVC pipe cutters with rotating jaws are better suited for cutting angled pieces with increased accuracy and control. Whatever tool you choose, remember to prioritize safety by wearing protective gear and following proper procedures to ensure a successful and precise cut.