Black Pipe DIY

Measure and Cut the Black Iron Pipe

• Measure the run of pipe and set the new black iron pipe in a pipe vise on a stand to hold it firmly in place. Cut the black iron pipe to length using a pipe cutter with rotary blades. Always use a professional-grade cutting oil to keep the pipe cutter and the rotary blades in good condition. Use an aluminum oxide grinding stone bit on the end of a high-performance rotary tool to remove the sharp ridges and burrs at the point where the black iron pipe was cut.

Threading and Fitting

• Using a pipe threader, place the correct die for the size of the black iron pipe over the end of the pipe and turn the handle of the pipe threader until the thread cuts. Use the cutting oil during this process to preserve the die. Take the die off the cut thread to remove any iron chips or spurs. Continue threading the black iron pipe until the thread is as thick as the die, then cut the thread on a taper. Stand the pipe upright to knock loose any pipe cuttings, burrs or chips. Wipe the threads with a rag carefully since they are extremely sharp. Wrap the threads with thread seal tape and fit the black iron pipe into place. Tighten the black iron pipe with one pipe wrench on the pipe and another pipe wrench on the fitting to tighten the connector. Secure the pipe at every joint with pipe strapping.

Test for Leaks

• To test for leaks, brush the joints of each black iron pipe with a mixture of water and soap, then turn on the gas and observe if the soap and water mixture on any of the joints bubbles or foams. This indicates a leak and requires further tightening of the connection. If the black iron pipe carries water, then applying the mixture is not necessary. Turn on the water and watch for leaks.