Flexible conduit plays a crucial role in protecting electrical wiring from external elements and providing structural support. When working with flexible conduit, it is essential to cut it to the desired length accurately and safely. This article delves into the various methods for cutting flexible conduit, emphasizing the appropriate tools and techniques to achieve clean and precise cuts.
Key Facts
- Choose the right tools:
- A blade with 24 to 32 teeth per inch and no-set is recommended for hand cutting.
- A specialty tool like the Roto-split can make the process faster and more consistent.
- Diagonal cutters or dikes can also be used to cut and separate the interlocking edges of the conduit.
- Prepare the conduit:
- If using a hand saw, secure the conduit in a vise to keep it in place.
- If using a specialty tool like the Roto-split, clamp the armor in place with the screw on the tool.
- If using diagonal cutters, bend the conduit sharply to pull apart the interlocking edges.
- Make the cut:
- With a hand saw, cut across the conduit’s spiral strip, following the marked line.
- With a specialty tool like the Roto-split, turn the crank handle to cut through the high part of the spiral strip.
- With diagonal cutters, clip the strip where it has been pulled apart.
- Clean up the cut ends:
- After cutting, trim any mangled edges with dikes or a hacksaw.
- Use a reamer to remove any burrs that have formed within the conduit.
- Smooth out the edges with an industrial-quality file.
Choosing the Right Tools
The selection of the right tools is paramount for efficient and effective cutting of flexible conduit. Several options are available, each with its own advantages and limitations.
1. Hand Saw:
- Ideal for small-scale projects and occasional cutting tasks.
- Choose a saw with a blade that has 24 to 32 teeth per inch and no-set to prevent the blade from getting entangled and splitting.
- Secure the conduit in a vise to keep it steady during cutting.
2. Powered Hand Saw:
- Suitable for larger projects and frequent cutting operations.
- Offers increased cutting speed and reduces fatigue.
- Maintain a 90-degree angle between the blade and the pipe to ensure a clean cut.
3. Pipe Cutter:
- Designed specifically for cutting conduit.
- Requires less effort compared to hand saws but involves more setup time.
- Secure the conduit in an elevated vise and align the blade with the cutting line.
4. Specialty Tools:
- Specialized tools like the Roto-split are available for cutting flexible metallic conduit.
- These tools provide faster and more consistent cuts, especially for repetitive tasks.
Preparing the Conduit
Before cutting the conduit, it is essential to prepare it properly to ensure a safe and accurate cut.
1. Measuring and Marking:
- Determine the required length of the conduit based on the project’s specifications.
- Mark the cutting line on the conduit using a tape measure and a marker.
2. Securing the Conduit:
- If using a hand saw or powered hand saw, secure the conduit in a vise to prevent it from moving during cutting.
- For specialty tools like the Roto-split, clamp the armor in place using the tool’s built-in mechanism.
3. Bending the Conduit (Optional):
- Bending the conduit slightly before cutting can help to lock the multiple convolutions in place.
- This technique ensures a clean cut that will not deform when the conduit returns to its original shape.
Making the Cut
Once the conduit is prepared, proceed with the cutting process using the chosen tool.
1. Hand Saw:
- Position the hacksaw blade over the marked cutting line.
- Gently rotate the conduit up and down as the blade cuts through the diameter of the pipe.
- Continue sawing until the conduit is severed along the marked line.
2. Powered Hand Saw:
- Ensure that the blade is sharp and properly aligned with the cutting line.
- Activate the saw and guide it along the marked line, maintaining a steady and controlled motion.
3. Pipe Cutter:
- Position the pipe cutter around the conduit, aligning the blade with the cutting line.
- Tighten the cutter until it comes into contact with the pipe.
- Rotate the cutter around the conduit, applying consistent pressure to make the cut.
4. Specialty Tools:
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the specific tool being used.
- Generally, these tools involve clamping the conduit, aligning the cutting mechanism, and activating the cutting process.
Cleaning Up the Cut Ends
After cutting the conduit, it is essential to clean up the cut ends to remove any sharp edges or burrs that could pose a safety hazard.
1. Trimming Mutilated Edges:
- Use dikes or a hacksaw to trim away any mangled or deformed edges resulting from the cutting process.
2. Removing Burrs:
- Insert a reamer into the conduit to remove any burrs or sharp edges formed during cutting.
- Rotate the reamer inside the conduit until the burrs are completely removed.
3. Smoothing the Edges:
- Use an industrial-quality file to smooth out the edges of the conduit, ensuring that they are smooth and free of sharp protrusions.
Conclusion
Cutting flexible conduit requires careful selection of tools and proper preparation to achieve clean and precise cuts. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can effectively cut flexible conduit for various electrical projects, ensuring safety and adherence to industry standards.
FAQs
What tools can I use to cut flexible conduit?
- Hand saw with a blade that has 24 to 32 teeth per inch and no-set
- Powered hand saw
- Pipe cutter
- Specialty tools like the Roto-split
How do I prepare the conduit before cutting?
- Measure and mark the cutting line on the conduit.
- Secure the conduit in a vise or use a specialty tool’s clamping mechanism.
- Consider bending the conduit slightly to lock the convolutions in place.
How do I make the cut?
- For hand saws and powered hand saws, position the blade over the cutting line and saw through the conduit.
- For pipe cutters, tighten the cutter around the conduit and rotate it to make the cut.
- For specialty tools, follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
How do I clean up the cut ends?
- Trim away any mangled edges with dikes or a hacksaw.
- Use a reamer to remove burrs and sharp edges from inside the conduit.
- Smooth out the edges with an industrial-quality file.
What safety precautions should I take when cutting flexible conduit?
- Wear protective gear such as safety glasses, gloves, and a dust mask.
- Ensure that the cutting tool is sharp and in good condition.
- Secure the conduit properly to prevent it from moving during cutting.
- Be mindful of sharp edges and burrs after cutting.
Can I cut flexible conduit with a utility knife?
- While it is possible to cut flexible conduit with a utility knife, it is not recommended. Utility knives are not designed for cutting metal and can easily slip, causing injury.
How do I cut flexible conduit without crushing it?
- Use a sharp blade and apply even pressure during cutting. Avoid using excessive force or dull blades, as these can crush the conduit.
What is the best way to cut flexible conduit in tight spaces?
- Use a specialty tool like the Roto-split, which is designed for cutting conduit in confined areas. Alternatively, consider using a hacksaw with a shorter blade.