Manually Threading Steel Pipe (Old School!)

How to Thread Steel Pipe Using Hand Dies

Key Concepts: Hand threading, steel pipe, die head ratchet, Ridgid 00R, pipe vise, cutting oil, pipe reamer, pipe dope, Teflon tape, right-hand threads, burrs, pipe fittings.

Introduction

The video demonstrates how to thread steel pipe using traditional hand dies, highlighting the advantages of this method over using an electric power threader in certain situations.

Advantages of Hand Threading

• Cost-Effectiveness: Hand threaders are significantly cheaper than electric power threaders like the Ridgid 300 power vise, which can cost several thousand dollars.
• Portability: Hand threaders are easier to transport than heavy power vises.
• Accessibility: Hand dies allow threading of existing installed piping in place, such as gas, water, or heating pipe runs.
• No Power Required: Hand threading requires no external energy source.

When to Use a Power Threader

• For regular pipe threading or large-scale projects, investing in a power threader may be more cost-effective.

Required Tools and Materials

• Die Head Ratchet with Die Heads: The Ridgid 00R ratchet and dies are used, capable of threading sizes from 1/8 inch to 1 inch nominal pipe size.
• Pipe Vise: The Ridgid 425 portable tri-stand vise is recommended, capable of securing up to 2-inch nominal pipe size.
• Cutting Oil: Essential for optimal threads and die longevity. A simple one-liter bottle can be used if an oiler is unavailable.
• Bucket or Drain Pan: To collect metal shavings and dripping oil.
• Clean Rags: For cleaning up oil and mess.
• Cardboard or Tarps: To protect floor surfaces.
• Pipe Wrench: For tightening pipe fittings.
• Pipe Reamer: For removing burrs from the inside of the pipe.
• Pipe Dope or Teflon Tape: To create a watertight joint.

Step-by-Step Threading Process

1. Die Head Selection and Installation:
   • Ensure the appropriate size die assembly is inserted into the ratchet housing. The video demonstrates using 3/4 inch nominal pipe size dies.
   • Lift the knob with the arrow on the ratchet and turn it to the neutral position.
   • Insert the smaller diameter side of the die assembly into the ratchet housing.
   • Turn the knob to lock the assembly in place.
   • The arrow on the knob indicates the locked or unratcheted direction. For right-hand threads, the ratchet should lock when rotating clockwise.
2. Pipe Securing:
   • Place the pipe in the pipe vise, leaving about four inches of pipe exposed to avoid interference with the hand dies.
3. Threading:
   • Place the die head onto the pipe, ensuring the bare side (without the size markings) engages the pipe first.
   • Apply pressure and push against the pipe to start the threading process.
   • Apply cutting oil liberally and frequently. "You can never have too much cutting oil."
   • Rotate the ratchet handle clockwise, applying cutting oil every half or full turn.
   • Continue threading until the number four die (the furthest out) is just past the outer edge of the pipe.
4. Reversing and Removing the Die Head:
   • Pull the plunger on the ratchet and reverse the direction so the arrow faces the opposite way.
   • Unscrew the die head from the pipe.
5. Deburring:
   • Use a pipe reamer to remove burrs from the inside and outside of the pipe. The Ridgid deburring tool is shown.
6. Thread Inspection:
   • Screw a fitting onto the threaded pipe by hand. A good thread should allow for two to three full turns.

Die Maintenance

• If the threads are not coming out properly, the face of the die may be loose.
• Remove the four screws, clean out any debris, and reassemble.

Fitting Installation

1. Applying Pipe Dope:
   • Apply pipe dope to the outer threads of the pipe only.
   • Do not apply pipe dope to the inner threads of the fitting.
2. Tightening the Fitting:
   • Manually screw the fitting onto the pipe as far as it will go.
   • Use a pipe wrench to tighten the fitting until it is snug.
   • Tighten in a downward direction for optimal leverage.

Conclusion

Hand threading steel pipe is a viable option for smaller, infrequent applications or when portability and accessibility are crucial. While slower than power threading, it offers cost savings and convenience in specific scenarios. Proper technique, ample cutting oil, and attention to detail are essential for creating quality threads.