
Pipe Threader
Pipe Threader Information
A pipe threader is a tool that’s used to create the threads at the end of a piece of pipe. Not only can a pipe threader produce uniform pipe threads, but they also make it possible to create custom thread designs as well. Depending on the size and scope of your job, there are various things you should consider before buying a pipe threader.
It wasn’t all that long ago that the only users of pipe threader machines were large manufacturers whose focus was on large scale production of threaded steel pipes. Along with making the pipe threads, the machines would also clean the inside of the pipe (ream) and cut the pipe to the proper length too.
Over time it became apparent to manufacturers such as Ridgid that there was a market for the use of pipe threader machines for smaller companies too. The key was to produce them is such quantities that the pipe threader could be sold to smaller companies, and or individuals at a price they could afford.
As a result, today you’ll find a wide range of pipe threaders available. You’ll find portable pipe threaders on plumbers trucks as well as portable and permanent pipe threaders in most plumbing shops. The pipe threader of today is not only available to just about anyone, including the do it yourself crowd, they also require a lot less maintenance than earlier models.
Determining The Type Of Pipe Threader That Best Fits Your Needs
On top of the increased mobility, efficiency and lower maintenance costs, there are pipe threaders available that have been designed to work with materials such as plastic, resin and fiberglass too. This is a great development because there is no longer any fear of overheating pipes of these types when threading them. There are a number of manufacturers that offer plastic as well as the standard metal pipe fitter.
The smaller units are available with a range of features and at price points that are great for not only plumbers and contractors but for homeowners as well. They also allow for the opportunity to thread pipes in a wide variety of configurations.
The major player in pipe threaders is the Ridgid tool company. They’ve got a fantastic reputation because their quality is top notch. Northern Tool is another company that offers a great line of pipe threaders as well.
The best selling portable electric pipe threader that Northern Tool offers for both the plumbing contractor and homeowner runs right around $300. While this may be a stretch for some homeowners, it’s a great fit for the plumbing contractor who’s tired of replacing the more expensive pipe threaders on their trucks due to the operator misuse.
The Portable Electric Pipe Threader that Northern Tool offers threads pipe from 1/2in to 2in. using 6 alloy steel die sets. A heavy-duty paddle switch shuts off automatically when released. This threader has an aluminum gear housing. It has both a plastic handle and body.
It comes with a 12 month warranty and is available and on sale at Amazon.
Another portable pipe threader you may want to consider is the Ridgid 36345.
It’s a manual exposed Ratchet pipe threader set with a 1/2-Inch to 1-inch capacity. The set includes die heads, ratchet assembly, ratchet handle and alloy dies. It uses 12-R dies in the die head.
This threader is great because you don’t need electricity to run it, increasing the number of locations you can use it. You can find this Ridgid pipe threader on sale at Amazon
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