Plumbing Tools & Techniques 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What tool is used to cut copper pipe cleanly without burrs?
- Hacksaw only
- Pipe cutter (tube cutter) (Correct answer)
- Angle grinder
- Reciprocating saw
Correct answer: Pipe cutter (tube cutter)
A pipe cutter (tube cutter) uses a hardened wheel to score and cut copper pipe cleanly with minimal burring, rotating around the pipe until it cuts through.
Question 2: What is the purpose of a pipe reamer or deburring tool after cutting pipe?
- To flare the pipe end
- To remove the interior burr left by cutting to restore full flow area (Correct answer)
- To measure pipe diameter
- To clean the pipe exterior
Correct answer: To remove the interior burr left by cutting to restore full flow area
A reamer removes the interior burr created by a pipe cutter, restoring the full bore diameter and preventing the burr from causing turbulence or catching debris.
Question 3: What tool is used to thread the inside of a pipe fitting to accept a pipe nipple?
- Pipe die
- Pipe tap (Correct answer)
- Thread chaser
- Pipe wrench
Correct answer: Pipe tap
A pipe tap cuts internal threads (female threads) inside a fitting to accept a threaded pipe, while a die cuts external threads (male threads) on pipe.
Question 4: What is the correct way to use Teflon tape (PTFE tape) on threaded pipe joints?
- Wrap counterclockwise against the thread direction
- Wrap clockwise in the direction of the threads (2–3 wraps) (Correct answer)
- Apply only to female threads
- Use on all types of pipe joints including solvent-welded
Correct answer: Wrap clockwise in the direction of the threads (2–3 wraps)
Teflon tape is wrapped clockwise in the direction of the threads (2 to 3 wraps) so that tightening the joint winds the tape tighter rather than unwinding it.
Question 5: What is a pipe wrench used for and what materials should it NOT be used on?
- All pipe types; should not be used on gas lines
- Gripping and turning threaded metal pipe; should not be used on chrome or polished finishes (Correct answer)
- Tightening compression fittings only; should not be used on plastic
- Cutting pipe; should not be used on thin-walled tubing
Correct answer: Gripping and turning threaded metal pipe; should not be used on chrome or polished finishes
Pipe wrenches grip threaded metal pipes with toothed jaws; they should never be used on chrome, polished, or soft finishes as the teeth will permanently damage the surface.
Question 6: What does a plumber use to solder (sweat) copper pipe joints?
- Propane or MAPP gas torch, solder, and flux (Correct answer)
- Solvent cement and primer
- Heat gun and thermoplastic welding rod
- Crimping tool and crimp rings
Correct answer: Propane or MAPP gas torch, solder, and flux
Sweating copper pipe requires a torch (propane or MAPP gas) to heat the fitting, flux to prevent oxidation and draw solder, and lead-free solder to fill the joint.
Plumbing Tools & Techniques 1
What tool is used to cut copper pipe cleanly without burrs?