PC Plumber Tools & Equipment Handling 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: When cutting cast iron pipe with a snap cutter (soil pipe cutter), the chain should be:
- Loosely draped around the pipe at a 45-degree angle
- Tightly wrapped perpendicular to the pipe centerline (Correct answer)
- Attached only at the top of the pipe
- Tightened in an oval path along the pipe length
Correct answer: Tightly wrapped perpendicular to the pipe centerline
The chain must be perpendicular and snug so all cutting wheels score evenly around the circumference, producing a clean snap.
Question 2: Which measuring tool is most accurate for verifying that a drain slope meets the standard ¼-inch-per-foot fall?
- Tape measure alone
- Torpedo level with slope vial (Correct answer)
- Plumb bob
- Chalk line
Correct answer: Torpedo level with slope vial
A torpedo level with a graduated slope vial allows the plumber to confirm a specific percent or inch-per-foot grade directly.
Question 3: A press tool (e.g., ProPress) creates watertight connections on copper or stainless tubing by:
- Applying heat to melt solder pre-loaded in the fitting
- Mechanically compressing a fitting with an o-ring using hydraulic jaw force (Correct answer)
- Threading the fitting onto the pipe
- Cementing the pipe using UV-activated adhesive
Correct answer: Mechanically compressing a fitting with an o-ring using hydraulic jaw force
Press tools use a powered jaw to compress a special fitting around the pipe, deforming it against an internal o-ring to create a seal without heat.
Question 4: What is the proper way to store a pipe wrench when not in use?
- Hang it by the hook on the handle with the jaw open
- Lay it flat with the jaw closed to relieve spring tension (Correct answer)
- Stand it upright on the jaw teeth
- Submerge the heel in oil to prevent rust
Correct answer: Lay it flat with the jaw closed to relieve spring tension
Storing a pipe wrench with the jaw closed relieves tension on the spring and prevents the adjustment nut from loosening over time.
Question 5: What PPE is required when operating a power drain-cleaning machine (sectional machine)?
- Only safety glasses
- Safety glasses and rubber gloves (Correct answer)
- Hard hat and face shield only
- Hearing protection only
Correct answer: Safety glasses and rubber gloves
Safety glasses protect against splatter and rubber gloves protect hands from contaminated water and rotating cable.
Question 6: A reciprocating saw (Sawzall) used in plumbing is best suited for:
- Making precise miter cuts on copper tube
- Demolition cuts through pipe, framing, or mixed materials (Correct answer)
- Cutting threads on galvanized pipe
- Boring clean holes through floor joists
Correct answer: Demolition cuts through pipe, framing, or mixed materials
The reciprocating saw's aggressive blade stroke makes it ideal for rough demolition cuts through pipes, nails, and wood simultaneously.
Question 7: When a pipe vise is mounted to a tripod for field work, the pipe should be secured:
- Only at the far end away from the vise
- Firmly in the vise with the work end extending toward the plumber (Correct answer)
- With the pipe running parallel to the tripod leg
- After threading is complete, not before
Correct answer: Firmly in the vise with the work end extending toward the plumber
Securing the pipe with the work end toward the plumber allows stable access for threading, cutting, or reaming operations.
PC Plumber Tools & Equipment Handling 3
When cutting cast iron pipe with a snap cutter (soil pipe cutter), the chain should be: