How to Thread a Pipe

Pipe fittings come in several sizes and configurations. By cutting and threading a pipe, custom fitting of supply lines can be run to any area service is required. By using valves, flow can be stopped, diverted or changed depending on the configuration of the pipes and valves. 

Cut the pipe to the desired length. The pipe will fit into a factory fitting, such as a T or union approximately 1/2", so adjust your measurements to include the insertion point into the fitting.. 

Remove any burrs from the cut by sanding or grinding lightly.  You want to begin threading your pipe with as smooth a surface as possible.  Be sure to clean the pipe before threading. Wipe the end of the pipe with a cloth to remove any dirt or debris that could inhibit the threading.

Place the pipe into a vise to hold it securely.  You want to have several inches of the end to be threaded exposed and a clear path for the pipe reamer to travel around so you do not hit any obstacles.  Select the proper die for the size pipe you wish to thread and check to see if you will need to left thread it or right thread it for the fitting.  There is a difference on how the pipe will screw into the fitting.

Place a few drops of oil on the end of the pipe and on the interior of the die. Place the die onto the end of the pipe and use the reamer in a circular motion to force the die onto the pipe.  If it is hard to move the reamer, you may need to add more oil as a lubricant.  When the dye has cut threads into the pipe approximately 1” deep, you have completed the threading process.  Now you will have to unscrew the dye and reamer from the pipe to detach it. 

Clean the new pipe threads before inserting into any fittings to remove any remaining burrs or oily lubricant.

Reference

Hammer Zone

Resource

Pipe Threading Diagrams

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