My 30 year old plumbing is developing pin hole leaks in the copper pipes from the acids in the water. I've been repairing them using compression fittings but the pipe cutters (spin type) leave an outside ridge from where the metal is displaced from the cutting wheel. This makes sliding the close tolerance ferrel onto the pipe very difficult. Sometimes I have been able to smooth it down using abrasive paper but that can be extremely time consuming in confined quarters. I need some suggestions on how to get rid of that ridge.

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Originally Posted by Speckul8r

My 30 year old plumbing is developing pin hole leaks in the copper pipes from the acids in the water. I've been repairing them using compression fittings but the pipe cutters (spin type) leave an outside ridge from where the metal is displaced from the cutting wheel. This makes sliding the close tolerance ferrel onto the pipe very difficult. Sometimes I have been able to smooth it down using abrasive paper but that can be extremely time consuming in confined quarters. I need some suggestions on how to get rid of that ridge.

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Replace the cutter wheel and use less pressure when using the cutters. You're bearing down too hard. Purchase a roll off plumbers sand cloth and shine up the edge before you slip on a ferule. Good luck, Tom

The pipe cutter is dull or u are trying to cut too fast.

Chuck

Sorry Tom

We posted same time.

Chuck

No problem Chuck! Great minds always think alike.

It is a common problem of young and/or beginning plumbers who want to cut pipe on two revolutions. Tom said it: tighten cutting wheel slower than you are now. Spin more times around. Also, and of course, use sharp wheel.

Use small, compact cutter like this one:

If you buy the cutter from a plumbing supply house, they will stock the cutting wheels. There is the normal cutter and one for close quarters.

If you are repeatedly having pin hole leaks you should consider replacing all of your piping. Leaks will continue to develop and one day you may come home to a flooded house.

I agree with all of the above but why don't you use the sharkbite fittings instead of compression fittings open the link below, Thanks.

John

YouTube - Sharkbite Compression Fitting / Disconnect Clip

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