Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. 332 Section 3 Plumbing System Design and Installation 21.6.1 Cutting and Threading Galvanized and Black Iron Pipe A pipe cutter, Figure 21-38, is the best tool for cutting galvanized and black iron pipe. It works much like a tubing cutter. The tool is revolved around the pipe, with the cutter wheel tightened one-quarter to one- half turn with each revolution until the pipe is sheared. Once the cut is complete, a pipe reamer is used to remove the burr. See Figure 21-39. Threads are cut with the pipe die and a die stock, Figure 21-40. Dies are available for each pipe size. A smooth sleeve guides the die onto the pipe to en- sure that it remains square with the end of the pipe, Figure 21-41. Cutting oil should be used to lubri- cate the die as threads are cut. Cutting, reaming, and threading can also be done using a powered pipe ma- chine, Figure 21-42. 21.6.2 Assembling and Supporting Galvanized and Black Iron Pipe Before assembling the pipe and fittings, apply pipe joint sealer or Teflon tape to the threads, Figure 21-43. This seals the joint and prevents leaks. The pipe or the fit- ting is turned clockwise with a pipe wrench to tighten the joint. See Figure 21-44. Galvanized and black iron pipe should be supported at 12′ intervals using metal hangers. Workplace Skills Staying Safety Conscious Safety on the job is everyone’s responsibility. Many workplace accidents occur because of careless behavior. Poor attitudes can cause unsafe behavior, too. Common causes of accidents include: ■ ■■ Taking chances. ■■ Showing off. ■■ Forgetting safety details. ■■ Disobeying company rules. ■■ Daydreaming. ■■ Losing your temper. ■ Falling asleep. Practicing good safety habits is essential for preventing accidents and injuries on the job. A well-rested and healthy worker is more alert and less likely to make accident-prone mistakes. Knowing how to use machines and tools properly is the responsibility of both the employer and employees. Wearing protective clothing and using safety equipment correctly helps keep workers safe. Being impaired as a result of drug or alcohol use is unaccept- able. Even prescription drugs can create problems. If you are even slightly impaired, it is a good idea to tell your supervisor and request work that is less risky for you and others. Your employer will emphasize the safety practices that employees must follow in your workplace. Employees not only have responsibilities for their own safety but also need to avoid doing anything that could jeopardize the safety of others. For example, dropping a short length of pipe and leaving it where it could be stepped on and cause a fall is unacceptable. The government agency that promotes safety in the work- place is the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). You will be required to follow the specific OSHA regulations that apply to your workplace. The Ridge Tool Co. Figure 21-38. A pipe cutter works in the same way as a tubing cutter. Goodheart-Willcox Publisher Figure 21-39. A reamer will remove the burr left from cutting galvanized or black iron pipe.