Hi Shane Here is a run down on the hand type. Dies and stocks Dies and stocks are tools used for threading the outside ends of hard-metal pipes. The dies cut the thread while the stock holds the dies in place. There are two types of die, solid and adjustable. The solid type is not favored much because it is necessary to have a different die for each thickness of pipe. The solid stock also has to be run back over the newly cut threads; this often results in stripped threads. Adjustable stock and die will fit any size of pipe in its range; it has adjustable levers and self-centering guides. Its catch or bolt releases the stock so that it may be withdrawn without a "runback."
Though sizes vary, stocks and dies between 1/8" and 2" will do for most any home plumbing work. Dies to cut either right-handed or left-handed threads are available. Right-handed dies are standard in this country and will be provided unless you specify otherwise. Special brass-pipe dies which cut normal threads but are designed with a different clearance to compensate for the softness of brass can also be obtained. Such special dies are recommended for threading large quantities of brass pipe. To use the die and stock for threading, first clamp the pipe in a vise, using friction clamps as described below. The vise should hold the pipe as near as possible to the end of the pipe while still leaving you space to work. Place the die in position and give the die a slight turn in the direction of the desired thread until the teeth catch the end of the pipe. Apply plenty of lubrication oil, or a light cutting or lard oil, between the cutters of the die. This will keep the die cool and its cutting edges sharp. Do not jerk or yank the dies while turning. Pull steadily to obtain a good, clean-cut thread. After the first few turns, it should take increased pressure to turn the die stock if the teeth have caught properly. The appropriate length of a complete thread should be 3/4" to 1" for the smaller pipe sizes and 1" to 1 1/4" for pipe sizes up to 2". Knowing when the thread is long enough is most important in threading pipe. There should be at least five or more perfect threads if there is to be a thorough metal-to-metal contact when the threaded pipe is screwed into the fitting. To test proper thread length see whether the pipe can be screwed into the fitting at least four turns by hand without using a wrench. The standard thread in use in the U.S. tapers slightly toward the end of the pipe and is divided into three parts. The first part consists of perfect threads, that is, cut correctly at top, bottom, and sides; the second part has correctly cut bottoms and sides, but is imperfect at the top; the last part has neither perfect tops nor perfect bottoms. The perfect threads at the beginning of the pipe assure that the pipe will join easily with the fitting; the imperfect ones, when turned into the fitting, make a tight, snug junction. Always clean stocks and dies after use; remove all dirt, oil, and chips. Remember to keep dies sharp and to have stocks repaired when they are broken. ----- Original Message ----- From: "Shane Hecker" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: <[email protected]> Sent: Monday, December 31, 2007 3:02 PM Subject: [BlindHandyMan] pipes >I want to be able to thred and cut pipes for water or gas. I know you can > get a cutter, but is there a machine (in a decent price range) that will > both cut and thred the pipe? I'd prefer something you do by hand, but if > there is a powered unit at a decent price, I'd consider it. Thanks. > > Shane > > -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.5.516 / Virus Database: 269.17.12/1203 - Release Date: 12/30/2007 11:27 AM
