Pipe Manual Hand Held Threading to Automatic Threading Machine

Hand Held Threading

Handle A hand held threading handle is made up of a stock to which the handles are attached and to which the cutting die is inserted in. There are two sets of set screws on the stock, one set for holding the dies in place and the other set for adjusting the dies. On the stock there is a deep mark to correspond with the standard thread mark on the dies. On the opposite side of the stock there is a place for the follower which helps to guide the cutting dies onto the pipe that is to be threaded. 

A threading ratchet has only one handle and a ratchet action which allows it to be used in confined spaces. Their size and convenience makes it possible for pipefitters to cut a section of pipe and add the right configuration of threads to pipes while at the job site or clean up an existing thread which had become damaged.

Threading Machine

 At one time, pipe threading machines were the province of large scale manufactures and tended to focus on the mass production of threaded steel pipes. Along with machining the specified thread design, the machines would also cut the pipe into workable sections, as well as ream out the pipe to ensure there were no defects in the pipe proper. Over time, the process for pipe threading and pipe cutting was refined, making it possible to produce completed goods for sale in a very short period of time. The uses of machines allow the threading process to produce uniform pipe threads that are uniform in nature. Workshop threading machine with foot pedal control For heavier duty or high volume repetitive work a pipe fitter would typical use a power threading machine. This type of machine can thread a wide range of pipe including black, galvanized and plastic-coated pipe, together with stainless steel and heavy-wall conduit, as well as rod up to 30 Rockwell C. These types of units typically operate at 36 RPM for 1/4" to 2" pipe and at 12 RPM for 2 1/2" to 4" pipes. There is constant and proper lubrication of dies and the workpiece with through-head oiling and a universal receding die head allows cutting of tapered or straight BSPT/BSPP or NPT/NPSM threads. Motor control Reverse/Off/Forward, is achieved with a heavy-duty rotary-type integral foot switch which allows the pipe fitter have both hands free for the work piece.

Along with increased efficiency and lower maintenance costs, there are pipe threading machines that are designed to work with materials other than metal. Pipes made with various types of plastic or resin materials can now be ran through pipe threading machines with no fear of overheating and thus damaging the finished product. There are many manufactures who use these machines to prepare low cost plastic piping making use of universally recognized thread configurations.

General Safety Precautions for Pipe Threading Equipment When operating pipe threading equipment the operator should be properly trained and supervised and observe all the general safe working procedures required for the threading processes. While this is not meant to be an exhaustive list some specific points to note for pipe threading are as follows:

Always -  Comply with the prescribed safety precautions and fire-prevention guidelines for the workshop. 

• Ensure the threading machine is in sound condition and good working order.
• Take action for immediate repair or replacement of damaged parts. Use recommended parts only.
• The use of improper parts may be dangerous and will invalidate the machine warranty. 
• Ensure that all dies are in good condition with no worn edged or have points missing. 
• Ensure that there is a sufficient supply of clean coolant and that all filters are clean and functioning. 
• Do not assemble when tired or when under the influence of drugs or medication. 
• DO NOT allow untrained persons to operate threading equipment.
•  Keep threading machine and associated parts clean for best and safest performance. 
• Wear ANSI-approved safety goggles and heavy-duty work glovesduring use.
•  As with any machining process, there is a significant pinch hazard created. Keep hands, fingers, feet, and any item which may be injured or damaged away from the threading machine during operation.  Ensure that there are no loose clothes to snag on rotating parts, that  long hair is tied up and all jewelry is removed before commencing work. 
• Locate the threading machine in a suitable, well lit working area.
• Keep working area clean, tidy and free from unrelated materials.
• Use on level and solid ground, preferably concrete. 
• Ensure all non-essential persons keep a safe distance whilst the threading machine is in use.  When threading pipe the equipment should be in a horizontal position with sufficient clear space to insert and withdraw the end of the pipe for threading. 
• Ensure that the threading machine is set-up with the correct parameters for the pipe material being threaded as brass and cast iron are dry cut without coolant.

 

Safety Precautions for Threading Equipment

The following are generic guidelines for pipe threading equipment, as there are many different suppliers of threading equipment it is not possible to provide a specific check list. This information does not replace the manufacturer’s instruction guide, it is meant only to acquaint the operator with some basic functions and safety tips that he/she must be aware of. Threading equipment varies considerably in their control and safety arrangements and therefore it is important to verify that actual equipment used is set-up correctly

• Before each use, inspect the threading equipment for damaged components. 
• Check that threading dies are set correctly for the pipe size to bethreaded.  Regularly wipe down and clean the tool to keep it in best condition.
• Keep hands away from the die and all other rotating parts when threading pipe. 
• Confirm that the recommended coolant is used and that there is an adequate supply and that re-circulation filters are kept clear and clean.
• Ensure that the speed settings are correct for the pipe size being threaded. 
• Ensure that long lengths of pipe are properly supported on pipe rollers to prevent any strain on the threading equipment. 
• DO NOT operate the threading equipment if damaged.
• DO NOT use the threading equipment for purposes other than that for which it is intended. 
• DO NOT overreach.
• Keep proper footing and balance at all times.
• Do not reach over or across running machines. 
• Check that keys and adjusting wrenches are removed from the tool or machine work surface before plugging it in. 
• Avoid unintentional starting. Be sure the switch is in the OFF position  when not in use and before plugging in. 
• When not in use, store the tool in a clean, dry, safe location out of reach of children and other unauthorized persons.
• Ensure that you read, understand safety instructions before operating the threading equipment. 
• Maintain product labels and nameplates. These carry important safety information

 

 Equipment Required for a Manual Threaded Joint

The following tools will be required to complete a threaded joint: 

• Threading die and handle to match the size of the pipe.
• Pipe vice
• Pipe cutter
• Reamer for the size pipe being threaded
• Set of pipe wrenches
• Cutting fluid and sealing tape or sealing compound

 

Cutting the Thread

Secure the pipe in the pipe vice and cut to the desired length. Then, fit the threading die over the end of the pipe. The cutting starts with a fine thread on the die, cutting fluid must be used to lubricate the pipe and die. Turn the handle of the die clockwise half a turn at a time, and then back it off a bit in order to eject the metal chips. The dies are run up on the pipe until the pipe extends through the face of the dies one thread. Oil is put on the pipe and the dies at least twice during the cutting. Ensure that the die is kept perpendicular to the pipe at all times to ensure the thread is square and even. The inner threads or those away from the pipe end are not cut as deep, providing a taper that creates a tighter joint. Remove the pipe from the vise, stand it on end, and tap to remove any metal chips or particles that may be lodged inside Then clean off the oil with a soft rag. Be careful; the threads are very sharp and can cut your hands. Insert the correct size reamer inside the pipe to ensure any sharp burrs are removed from the inside of the pipe.

 

Assembling the Threaded Joint

The threaded pieces are then joined together using couplings or fittings. A sealing material must be used on the threads at each joint. This can be either Teflon tape, or a pipe thread sealing compound.

With the sealing material in place, hand-tighten the pipe and coupling or fitting. Then, using pipe wrenches, one on the pipe and one on the fitting, tighten one and a half more turns.