Rothenberger 88801 Pipeslice 15mm Copper Pipe Cutter

In-Depth Look

The Rothenberger Pipeslice is a small, single-handed cutter for 15mm copper pipe. It is designed for places where an adjustable pipe cutter is hard to turn.

Tight Space Use

The compact body slides over the pipe and cuts with a rotating motion. It clamps and aligns itself, so there is no adjustment: slide it on and rotate. This helps on boiler swaps, radiator replacements and runs that sit close to walls, joists or other pipes.

Cut Quality

A rotary cutter gives a square cut without deforming the pipe, but any rotary cutter leaves a small burr on the inside edge. Deburr the cut end before making a soldered or compression joint, as a square, clean end helps the joint seat properly.

Replaceable Cutting Wheel

The cutting wheel can be replaced when it wears, and replacement wheels are available.

Size Range

The 15mm Pipeslice covers the common domestic hot and cold supply size. Rothenberger also make Pipeslice cutters for other copper sizes, such as 22mm.

Summary

The Rothenberger 88801 Pipeslice is a self-clamping, single-handed 15mm copper pipe cutter with a replaceable wheel, weighing about 230g.

How It Compares

The Rothenberger Pipeslice cuts 15mm copper. It works with one hand in a single action, and it clamps itself and aligns itself on the pipe. It cuts without deforming the pipe. The cutting wheel is replaceable, and replacement wheels are available. It is a small hand-held tool with a compact body, which helps in tight spaces.

After cutting, you may need the Yorkshire Tectite Sprint push-fit coupling or, for soldered joints, the Rothenberger soldering mat. Both are fittings and tools used after cutting. For background, see our guides on copper versus plastic pipe and tools for plumbers.

A cut that is square helps a fitting to seat fully, and solder flows more evenly into a square joint. Deburring is still needed after any cut, because a burr will form.

Common Questions

Why must the cut be square? A square cut lets the fitting seat fully, and solder flows evenly around the joint. Plumbing guides agree on this.

Do I still need to deburr? Yes. Cutting leaves a ridge on the inside of the tube. That ridge can stop a fitting seating or can damage a seal. Ream or deburr the inside, and lightly deburr the outside.

How do I stop the cutter squashing the pipe? Do not over-tighten it. Use light pressure at first and increase it gradually as the wheel bites.

What if the cutter will not fit? The space may be too tight. Check the wall clearance in the maker’s data, and use a different cutter if it will not fit.

Can I cut plastic or stainless steel pipe with it? No. It is for copper only. Check the label on the tool.

Is there anything else to remember? Wear eye protection, and tidy up copper offcuts and sharp ends. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use a competent person where required.

Why use a rotary cutter instead of a hacksaw? A rotary cutter has a wheel that cuts around the pipe in a single action, and it clamps and aligns itself, which helps the cut start square. A hacksaw can do the job, but it relies on your own steadiness to keep the cut straight. Either way, deburr the end afterwards.

Replacement wheels are available, so a worn wheel does not mean replacing the whole tool. Other sizes of cutter exist for other pipe sizes, so check the label before you buy.