How to Cut Galvanized Steel

How to Cut Galvanized Steel
Written By
Aaron Ratliff
Aaron Ratliff
Published: Nov 25, 2010
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
2 minute read

When cutting galvanized steel, it can be challenging to produce a smooth clean-cut edge. With the proper tools, you can cut both galvanized pipes and sheets with precision.

Things You Will Need

  • Pipe vise or solid bench vise
  • Rotary pipe cutter
  • Steel reamer
  • Circular saw fitted 7 1/4 -inch fiber blade
  • Safety glasses
  • Gloves

Cutting Galvanized Pipe

  1. Secure the pipe in either a pipe vise or a solid bench vise.

  2. Place the rotary pipe cutter on the galvanized pipe, centering the line you need to cut with the blade of the cutter.

  3. Apply cutting oil and tighten the knurled handle of the pipe cutter until the blade touches the pipe.

  4. Turn the cutter in a circular motion, tightening the knurled handle with each revolution, until the pipe has been cut. Add oil as needed during the process.

  5. Smooth any rough edges with a steel reamer.

Cutting Galvanized Sheets

  1. Clamp the sheet of galvanized metal securely using a bench vice with your guide lines facing up.

  2. Use a circular saw fitted with a 7 1/4-inch fiber blade to cut the galvanized metal, following your guide lines.

  3. Smooth any rough edges with a steel reamer.

The Drip Cap

  • Galvanized steel has been in use in the United States since 1870, and can be found in most houses that were constructed prior to the 1950s.
  • Place the rotary pipe cutter on the galvanized pipe, centering the line you need to cut with the blade of the cutter.

Photo Credits

background metallic image by Galina Moiseeva from Fotolia.com

background metallic image by Galina Moiseeva from Fotolia.com

Aaron Ratliff

Based in Asheville, N.C., Aaron Ratliff started writing as a journalist for his hometown radio station in 1997. He is currently a North Carolina licensed Emergency Medical Technician and a certified personal trainer. Ratliff is pursuing a…

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