What Is a Threaded Rod Cutter?
A full-thread cutter is a special tool for cutting threaded rods. These cutters come in both manual and electric types, with rechargeable (battery-powered) versions being widely used these days.
An all-thread bolt is a bolt that does not have a head like a hexagonal bolt, and its entire length is a thread. Generally, “inch-cut bolt” is also used as a synonym.
In a threaded rod cutter, a blade with threads and grooves engages the thread of a threaded bolt, and the two blades clamp and shear the bolt to cut it. This ensures a stable cutting surface and reliable cutting without crushing the threaded part.
An electric threaded rod cutter is also available in a corded version. However, the battery-powered version is explained here.
Uses of Threaded Rod Cutters
All-thread bolts are used for suspending electrical and plumbing cables, cable trays, and piping from building ceilings, as well as for securing various equipment and lighting fixtures.
In these cases, all-thread bolts are installed in uniform lengths longer than necessary to allow for adjustment of the position (level) of piping, equipment, and other items to be installed. Therefore, after the piping or equipment is installed, the unneeded portion of the threaded rod bolt protruding from the nut or other part of the bolt is cut off with threaded rod cutters.
By using an all-thread cutter, it is possible to cut numerous threaded rods efficiently to the same length without crushing the threaded part.
Other applications include cutting all-thread bolts for concrete anchors.
How to Select Threaded Rod Cutters
The following points should be considered when selecting threaded rod cutters:
- Cutting Capacity (Cutting Screw Size)
Because they are often used in electrical and plumbing work, all-thread bolt sizes are mainly limited to the sizes listed below. Note: the size that can be cut may vary depending on the material of the all-thread bolt.Examples of all-thread bolt sizes: M6, M8, M10, W3/8, W5/16, W1/2
Select the cutting capacity (bolt size) required for the job.
- Battery Voltage (Capacity) *In Case of a Battery Type
Battery voltage (capacity) is classified by the output voltage, such as “DC 36V,” “DC 18V,” “DC 14.4V,” “DC 10.8V,” etc. The higher voltage will provide you with a longer time available for work. Also, the lower voltage will equate to a lighter weight. The appropriate voltage should be selected for the required working time.
Many of the batteries can be shared with other power tools of the same manufacturer. By using the same capacity, the battery and charger can be minimized.