Choosing a pipe threader starts with understanding how you want to use the equipment. Also known as a rigid pipe threader, this type of electrical machinery is used to add threads to the end of a pipe. The different choices are sizes of equipment for different sizes of pipe and differences in the way the equipment is powered.

You can purchase a self-contained pipe threader that can be used on the counter or table or a threader that stands on legs. You can also choose to use a manual pipe threader which will also be known as a ratchet threader. A manual threader requires that you operate it and you do the work of turning the threader around the pipe. An automatic threader works with a foot pedal and electricity.

The chief difference between them is that the manual pipe threader, because it is hand-operated, will show less wear and have fewer maintenance and repair problems than an automated one. An automatic threader has more potential to stop working correctly, stop cutting correctly, and simply break down. There's no guarantee that it will, but anything that runs on electricity has more moving parts and more internal delicate parts than something that's manual.

If you also want to be able to cut the pipe with the unit it will have to have a cutter attached, and it should also have a reamer attachment that goes into the pipe as the outside being threaded. For most jobs, a couple of universal die heads are all you'll need. If you end up having to thread pipes that are smaller than half an inch then you can either do the job with an appropriate sized ratchet threader or choose the special teeth for one of the  universal die heads. This allows you to do all different sizes with your pipe threader.

If you know that you're going to be constantly threading a certain size pipe, that can help you determine which model of pipe threader to get. A 300 is standard but if you're going to be threading pipes that are over 2 inches all time, then a 1224 model is best. If it's only going to be occasional pipe that's larger than 2 inches, then buy the attachment necessary to do that size and use it on the standard model.

When purchasing a pipe threader, consider how often you'll be using the equipment. If you plan on using it extensively, then there are advantages and disadvantages to using a ratchet or power model. A power model will make faster work of pipe threading so the jobs will be done faster. But a ratchet model that's manual will probably last longer without need for maintenance or repair. You can also purchase a used or reconditioned model rather than new, but if it's going to be used excessively you have to consider how much time has already been put on the machinery. Certain things like the bearings and the shaft may need to be replaced sooner with a used or reconditioned model than a new one.

Photo Credits: fciron

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Handy Man, Tools, construction

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electrical machinery, electricity, pipe threader, pipes, ratchet, rigid pipe, size pipe