For a professional like a pipelayer, tools are of immense importance. It is with the right tools that a pipelayer would be able to complete his tasks efficiently. If he or she does not have the right tools for the completion of his or her task, it would be terribly difficult to arrive at its completion in the right manner. Hence, the best is to have the right tools if you are a pipelayer by profession or hope to be one someday. Pipelayers, being a profession that is in demand, we thought of telling you all about the tools of a pipelayer through this article.
The Importance of Tools for a Pipelayer
Before we get into our main content specifically, it would be worth knowing the importance of tools for a pipelayer. Mainly, why do pipelayers need tools?
A pipelayer uses specialized equipment to construct and connect pipes. A pipelayer uses ditch-digging tools and equipment to install pipe networks for water utilities, sewers, storm drainage, and other types of infrastructure. Also, pipelayers can identify and install piping systems using magnetic and radio indications.
Of course, we all have to admit the fact that it is not merely the tools that matter. Yet, tools are one of the predominant parts when it comes to the profession of a pipelayer. That is why we can place this much weight on the tools in this regard.
Yes, it is not just for pipelayers that tools are important. For anyone who works in the field of construction, tools are pretty important. Perhaps, it is due to the tools they use that they can do almost all the work that they do out of efficiency. In fact, efficiency is one of the most important key factors in the construction field. Every other factor depends on efficiency. Tools, therefore are immensely important for the field of construction. And pertaining to our subject of discussion in this article, tools are of immense importance for a pipelayer.
What tools do Pipelayers use?
Alright. So, let us now get to know what tools pipelayers would basically use. Notwithstanding, there is heavy machinery that ate in use in major construction sites. But in this article, we are focusing primarily on hand tools. For ease of understanding, we thought of listing them out.
- Mechanical hot tapping machine
- Pipe joiner
- Stud punch
- Hole saw
- Tubing bender
- Rod cutter
- Torpedo level
- Pipe wrench
- Hacksaw
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Now, you know what tools a pipelayer would have to use in the main. Of course, as we said, we have not taken into account any of the big pieces of machinery. These are all hand tools and so. Alright. Let us go through each of them in detail.
1. Mechanical hot tapping machine
What is hot tapping? Well, it is the process of establishing a connection to existing pipes or pressure vessels without stopping or emptying that piece of pipe or vessel. This means that we can use a pipe or tank while we carry on our maintenance or repairs. Draining pressurized case fluids and adding test points or different sensors such as temperature and pressure are also done using this method. Hot taps can range in size from a 12-inch hole for quality control testing to a 48-inch hole for the installation of various ports, valves, t-sections, and other pipes.
So, hot tapping is mainly to connect a branch connection to a pipe to construct a new supply line on the mainline. The fact that the pipe is being drilled under pressure is referred to as “hot tapping.” The procedure is purely a drilling operation and does not generate threads in the pipe. Of course, this is one of the main operations in pipelaying. Therefore, a pipelayer must have full knowledge of all this.
And indeed, it is necessary to have a hot tapping machine for any pipelayer. So, this is one of the main tools of a pipelayer without question.
Reed Tool DM3MECH Mechanical Hot Tapping Machine Complete with Hole Saws or Arbor
In terms of mechanical hot tapping machines, here is a product that we can recommend. This hot tapping machine is ideal for any professional pipelayer to have as one of his or her tools.
If we consider the specifications of this product, this can hot tap up to 4” on steel, copper, or plastic pipe. For ambient temperatures, the pressure is 300 psi. And for stream systems, the pressure is 125 psi. The valve size of this hot tapping machine is from ¾ ‘’ to 4’’. And obviously, we can assure you that this is a product that is perfectly worthwhile for you to buy for your pipelaying tasks.
“Great product for the price!”, says a happy customer of this product on Amazon. So, we can surely recommend this mechanical hot tapping machine.
2. Pipe joiner
As one of the tools, a pipelayer must also have a pipe joiner. Here, you would basically need to have a multi-purpose pipe joiner for the pipelaying tasks. A pipe joiner would allow you to connect medium and large pipe and fittings using a simple lever-and-chain method.
PVC, ductile iron, clay tile, cast iron earth pipe, and concrete pipe are all generally compatible with a standard pipe joiner. And trust us, a pipe joiner can make the work of a pipelayer a lot easy.
Reed Tool PJ414 Multi-Purpose Pipe Joiner
This pipe joiner is a good choice for any pipelayer for professional use. It allows you to connect medium and large gasketed pipe and fittings up to 14″ in size using a standard lever-and-chain technique. PVC, ductile iron, clay tile, cast iron earth pipe, and concrete pipe are all generally compatible with this pipe joiner.
You can use this pipe joiner and engage in your pipelaying work efficiently. No doubt, this is a good product. The good ratings and reviews this product has received bear testimony to the fact.
3. Stud punch
Stud punch is another of the tools of a pipelayer that we are going to consider. What exactly is a stud punch. Well, basically, a stud punch is a tool that you can use to make holes in metal studs. But you can do so without pre-drilling. That is the specialty with stud punches. And due to this factor, stud punches are really beneficial for a pipelayer for pipelaying tasks.
When purchasing a stud punch, you must check if it is lightweight. It really matters as, if not, it would be hard for you to use this hand tool. Also, it is better if it has a good handle. It is mainly for maximum leverage.
So, needless to say, you would have to use a stud punch whenever you need to make holes in metal studs. It really is useful on such occasions.
Greenlee 724 Stud Punch
Here is an ideal choice for a stud punch. This Greenlee stud bunch is really a good choice for any pipelayer as the price you pay for it is really worth it. The contoured handle of this stud punch provides improved operator leverage and allows punching in confined spaces. Also, this automatically centers holes on standard studs. And it creates 1-1/4-inch holes in steel studs
Most customers of this product have positively reviewed this item. In general, they have claimed that this stud punch works amazingly well and is efficient.
4. Hole saw
Of course, this is a tool that we cannot forget when we are talking about the tools of a pipelayer. A hole saw or hole cutter is a saw blade of annular shape. It can create a hole in something without cutting the core. So, this is necessarily important for any pipelayer. And generally, you would use hole saws mainly in a drill.
The cup-like shape of a hole saw limits the depth to which you can cut using a hole saw. This usually varies. Therefore, you would have to choose the right size depending on the tasks that you have to work on.
Nevertheless, it is a bi-metal hole saw that a pipelayer would primarily need. Bi-metal hole saws work really well for steel and copper pipes. So, you would be able to make use of bi-metal hole saws when you have some pipelaying to do with copper or steel pipes in the main. However, this is indeed requisite for pipelayers on a number of occasions.
So, no doubt, this is a must-have for any professional in the field of pipelaying. Although one might not consider this at great length, this is a necessary type of tool.
KATA Hole Saw Set 20PCS Hole Saw Kit with 3/4″-6″(19-152mm) 13PCS Saw Blades,2 Mandrels,3 Drill Bits,1 Installation Plate,1 Hex Key, Ideal for Soft Wood, Plywood, rywall, PVC
This is a professional-level product that you can use for pipelaying tasks. In fact, this is a wear-resistant and rust-proof hole saw. And this is a tool that is made of premium heat-treated carbon steel.
This is obviously a user-friendly tool. The operator can conveniently put the set together with the drill without any trouble. With the use of this hole saw kit, you can cut softwood, plywood, plastic plate, plasterboard, thin PVC board, and so on.
For portability, the set comes with a bespoke heavy-duty case. Every piece is held in place by designated slots in the case. Increase the efficiency of your work.
You can use it with a standard electric drill, an impact drill, or a saw machine if you need highly exact holes. It is not suitable for hard metal, hardwood, or dense board. Cutting depths more than 1″ would not be quite successful with this.
Many customers of this product have reviewed this product positively on Amazon. “I am super happy with his purchase, and I am also super impressed by the company that makes this great little saw set.” One happy customer of this product has commended it thus on Amazon.
Also, many admire the affordability of this product. And it thus makes this product a highly worthwhile product. Hence, we are not hesitant in recommending this product.
5. Tubing Bender
Some may also call this the pipe bender. What we call it matters not. What matters is the use of this specific tool for a pipelayer. For pipelayer, a tubing bender would be a tool that is necessary to carry on his pipelaying tasks.
Okay, so, for what sort of purposes would you have to use tubing bender? Basically, you can use tubing benders or pipe benders to bend bending temper steel, stainless steel, copper, aluminum, and so on. As a pipelayer, there would be numerous occasions on which you would have to do so. Hence, it would be a very important tool for you to use as a professional pipelayer.
Tube Bender Kit Refrigeration Ratcheting Tubing benders Hand Tool 1/4 to 7/8 Inch Aluminum Alloy Replacement Head
This is a good choice when it comes to tubing benders. 1/4, 5/16, 3/8, 1/2, 5/8, 3/4, 7/8 inch are the elbow tubing diameter ranges of this product. This is, of course, very easy to use and is pretty efficient in comparison to other similar products on the market. Whatever the case, let it be sanitary and heating installations, floor heating, refrigeration and air-conditioning, hydraulic system, this is an ideal choice. And in fact, if it is a pipelaying task, no doubt, you can make your task pretty efficient by taking this into use.
In this set, you will be getting a tube bender, pipe cutter, deburring tool with an extra blade, 2 fixed supports, 7 tube bender heads, and the Carrying Box. It is quite a lot. But anyway, you would be getting all these.
Customers of this product have rated well for aspects such as ease of use and value for money. So, clearly, this is a quality and valuable product that you can make use of, for your pipelaying tasks.
6. Rod cutter
When it comes to the rod cutter, this is also one of the essential tools of a pipelayer that is necessary on the construction site. What is the purpose of using a rod cutter? Mainly, rod cutters are hand tools that are there to cut threaded rods. (threads) So, you can use a rod cutter to cut and straighten threads. Also, you can use rod cutters to repair any damaged threads as well.
When you are purchasing a rod cutter, there are, of course, certain factors that you must consider. In the main, you must consider whether it is durable to start with. And then, you must check if its handle is strong and has a tight and comfortable grip. Also, you must whether it is of the right standard you expect it to be and so. If it is up to your satisfaction, there is nothing stopping you from buying it right there.
DEWALT DCS350B 20V MAX Cordless Threaded Rod Cutter (Tool Only)
This threaded rod cutter is just perfect for any professional pipelayer to have as one of the tools of his or her toolbox. And this cuts 1/4″, 3/8″, 1/2″ mild steel threaded rod as well as 1/4″, 3/8″ stainless steel threaded rod. This gives you clean, bur-free cuts. And needless to say, this is, therefore, very easy to use and pretty efficient. And you can have multiple sizes of rods with one cutter thanks to the fact that this has a rotating cutter.
Furthermore, this has a bright LED light. So, it can illuminate your working area when you are working if you need any light of that sort. Moreover, this has an onboard cutter wrench storage as well.
This is a product of premium quality. It does not create sparks or chips while cutting. And its low vibration level is indeed satisfactory.
Many customers of this product are really happy with its performance. Most of them have mentioned in their reviews on Amazon that this was a reliable tool. Further, they had made a note that this worked exactly as the descriptions of this tool said. Yes, that was the most common review.
7. Torpedo level
Alright. In our list of the tools of a pipelayer, the torpedo level is up next. In fact, this is one of the most essential tools that a pipelayer should have. So, what exactly is a torpedo level? Well, a torpedo level is actually a type of spirit level. Usually, the torpedo level generally has a plastic or metal body. And normally, a torpedo level has two or three tube vials. So, you can determine the surface level by checking the additives inside those vials.
Commonly, it is robust Aluminum or Aluminum alloys that the manufacturers use to manufacture these types of torpedo levels. It is necessary to strengthen the tools so that they can withstand a shock or drop.
Nevertheless, there are basically many types of torpedo levels. So, depending on the situation, you can opt for the one that suits you the most.
Of course, you would perhaps know how to use torpedo levels. The operation of torpedo levels is doubtlessly simple without question. Basically, this is what you have to do. Firstly, you have to place the torpedo level on the surface that you consider. Then you have to assure that the vial runs parallel to the surface that you consider. Consequently, the air bubble must pop up. And eventually, you can check the air bubble and see where it is. If it is in the center, your surface is level. And it is not, and is towards the right or left, it tells you that the surface is not level.
LAND 12 Inch Spirit Level, Heavy Duty Aluminum Alloy Magnetic Level Tool, Orange
This is a product that we can recommend in terms of torpedo levels. This standard torpedo level has three high-definition bubbles indication vials for leveling, with 45°, 90°, and 180° for measuring horizontal, vertical, and 45° planes on each level. And this torpedo level has a machined Aluminum frame. And this has solid acrylic vials. It consequently prevents breaking or deformation. Also, this has a powerful magnetic side. Hence, you can attach this to an iron while you are working. This is small in size. And it is lightweight. Therefore, this product is pretty convenient and ideal for industrial use.
This product has got good ratings as well. So, we can assure you that this product is sure of good quality and durability. Of course, durability is a factor that you must consider in whatever you buy. And as this is durable, you would not have to worry about that.
8. Pipe wrench
And when it comes to pipe wrenches, these are also pretty useful tools for a pipelayer. Needless to say, if there is any sort of pipework, there must be a pipe wrench. It is that much requisite.
Basically, a pipe wrench is for tightening and loosening pipe and pipe fittings. The firm teeth of the pipe wrench can dig into the softer metal of the round pipe, giving you the grip you need to turn it even when it is not easy. The length of the handle is used to classify pipe wrenches. They come in a variety of sizes, ranging from 3 inches (80 mm) to 48 inches (1,200 mm) or greater.
Typically, it is cast steel that they use to manufacture these. The body of the wrench may be aluminum nowadays. Yet, the teeth and jaw still would be of steel. To repair broken wrenches, teeth and jaw kits (which also include adjustment rings and springs) can be purchased for less than the cost of a new one. Repairing a high-quality wrench can be more cost-effective than purchasing a new high-quality wrench or purchasing inexpensive wrenches on a regular basis.
Anyway, the best course of action you can follow is purchasing a durable pipe wrench that is of good quality. That can possibly benefit you in many ways. And that is our piece of advice for you as well.
RIDGID 31020 Model 14 Heavy-Duty Straight Pipe Wrench, 14-inch Plumbing Wrench, Red, Small
So, this is a good quality pipe wrench that we can mention as a suggestion. This is a long-lasting and durable product that you can use for pipework in the main. This has a very good grip. And you can easily make quick adjustments whenever it is necessary. Also, this has self-cleaning threads. And it has a hook jaw, heel jaw, and spring assembly that you can easily replace if necessary. 14-inch (350 mm) pipe wrenches are ideal for pipe diameters of 1/2 inch (13 mm) to 1-1/2 inch (40 mm) with a pipe capacity of up to 2 inches (50 mm)
Obviously, this is a great tool that is suitable for any type of pipework. And especially, this would be really useful for a pipelayer to have as one of the tools. Of course, this is a product that we can recommend right away.
9. Hacksaw
For any professional who does work with pipe, a hacksaw is a tool that is mandatory. So, a pipelayer also would have to use a hacksaw doubtlessly. This is a toothed saw, as you surely already know. We can use a hacksaw to cut up things. And especially, professionals like pipelayers and plumbers use hacksaws to cut pipes. By pushing and dragging the hacksaw to and from, you can easily do the cutting.
You may also believe that the term “hacksaw” is appropriate for this particular cutting instrument. It surely is. A harsh cut or blow is what a hack refers to. So, for rough cuts, we may use the hacksaw.
Hacksaws come in a variety of sizes as well. It is up to the pipelayer to choose which size is best for a particular piece of work.
Furthermore, if you use hacksaws, there is something you should be aware of. It is the fact that you would have to bring more blades with you. The material you are cutting may be too abrasive for a hacksaw to handle.
Nevertheless, can never forget nor omit hacksaws from the list of tools of a pipelayer. It is that useful for a pipelayer.
DEWALT Hack Saw, 5-in-1 (DWHT20547L)
And here is a hacksaw from Amazon that we can recommend for a professional pipelayer. This is obviously a good product. And it is durable. Needless to say, durability is an important factor that anybody must consider when purchasing a product. And this hacksaw is perhaps durable enough.
The blade of this hacksaw can hold up to 330 lbs. And the blade is attached even to the front blade. So, long reach is quite possible with this hacksaw. And the front handle of this hacksaw becomes a jab saw.
On Amazon, this product has good positive reviews and ratings from its happy customers. Mainly, the versatility, ease to use, and lightweights. Therefore, we are not reluctant in recommending this product for the use of pipelayers.
10. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
This is something, sometimes, most of you would not place emphasis on. Yet, perhaps, this matters the most. Pipelaying is not a profession that you can engage in, on a featherbed. It obviously has danger in it. Maybe you cannot avoid each and every danger. Perhaps, you cannot prevent each of them. But there is something that you can do. You can safeguard yourself. You can protect yourself from the potential hazards. That is why it is necessary to wear Personal Protective Equipment or PPE.
What does PPE include? Well, basically, this might vary depending on the situation. Of course, almost everyone in the field of construction has to use PPE. So, it really is a matter of what type of job he or she has to do on the construction site. But we can provide you with some general suggestions.
In fact, you would need to have a hard hat to protect your head. If there is any heavy machinery and so around you on the worksite, it would be best to do so. There is a possibility for something to fall onto your head.
Further, it would be a good measure to have boots. In fact, this is really necessary for a pipelayer. Also, you can have protective equipment like safety glasses and earplugs. These would not be essential. But depending on the situation, you would have to use them as well. Let us say, you are on a site where there are lots of machinery that make lots of loud noises. Then, having earplugs would be a good measure.
wikSafety (Charlotte, NC) TURTLE SHELL COMBO (10 Vents) Standard Cap ANSI Hard Hat, Safety Glasses, Sunshade, Sweatband & Earplugs Construction Work PPE, Type1, Class C, WHITE
Of course, as we said, it is important to have Personal Protective Equipment for almost all the professionals in the construction field. And keep in mind that this is mainly due to safety concerns. Alright. So, here is a PPE kit that we can recommend for you.
Its hard hat is of the one size fits most design. Besides, you have the capability to customize your hard hats according to the size of your head. And this is a lightweight design. And it will make you feel comfortable at all times you are working wearing this. Its sunshade is also pretty useful when working on a construction site. And its breathable mesh also provides a lot. Mainly, it provides high visibility and safety. Also, it further adds protection and cooling when you are working in the heat.
When it comes to safety glasses, they are also really useful. They provide full coverage and shield and protect you from all the possible hazards.
This PPE kit also consists of a safety harness. For a pipelayer, this would not be of significant importance. But still, who knows? There can be situations where you also would need them. And this harness is also a universal design and fits most people.
“I like everything about this product.” This is how one of the happy customers of this product has reviewed it. What else can we say? We can surely recommend this.
Conclusion
So, we told you a pretty lot about the tools that a pipelayer has to use. In fact, we told you about the uses of those tools, how to use them, and how to take care of them in general. And we hope that you would have a pretty good idea about all these by now. Make sure that you use what we told you in the practical aspect. Keeping these things in your head would not help. You need to implement them practically.
Anyway, if you would like to read about the tools of some other professionals, you can read about the tools of a plumber, electrician, carpenter, masonry worker, HVAC technician, ironworker, glazier, solar installer, and so on. If you go through these, you would understand that there are common tools for certain professions as well as specific tools.
Nevertheless, pipelaying is an industry that is worth indulging in. Hence, we wish you all the very best of luck with your pipelaying tasks!
