One-Revolution Tube Cutter
5
geneRal InfORmaTIOn
The Elliott 9060 series one-revolution tube cutter can be used to puncture the wall of both non-ferrous
and stainless steel tubes for venting purposes. However, the tool is not recommended for severing
stainless materials for tube removal due to the yield strength of those materials. Stainless materials
tend to flare and not sheer well, which could cause damage to the tube sheet when the tube is pulled
for removal.
The one-revolution tube cutter is designed strictly as a hand operated tool. It should never be used
with a power drill or impact wrench. Using the one-revolution tube cutter with a power tool may result
in damage to the tool, the vessel being worked on, or injury to the operator.
For the proper function of the one-revolution tube cutter it is important to select and use the correct
cutter for the tube size being punctured or cut. Refer to the chart on page 7 of this manual, your Elliott
catalog or the Elliott Product Selection CD for size options.
The only adjustment available with the one-revolution cutter is for the depth of cut down tube. See the
operation section for direction on setting the cutting depth.
Cutter bits will wear out but are easily replaced. See page 9 for directions on installing replacement
bits in your tool.
Why Puncture Tubes Prior To Plugging?
After plugging a leaking tube, corrosion deposits or polymerized process fluids often seal the
perforation or crack that led to the plugging. Fluid is then captured inside the tube, which can cause a
buildup of sufficient pressure to eject the tube plug and cause injury. Venting the tube with a generous
puncture prior to plugging prevents the trapping of fluids in the tube. Positive venting will also prevent
such occurrences as fire, explosion or release of toxic or noxious materials to the atmosphere during
retubing or plug removal.
Venting process is recommended for oil refinery, petrochemical, chemical and other process heat
exchangers and for feed water heaters.
NOTE: Venting can be accomplished even on heavy wall tubes that cannot be severed due to the thick
ribbon catching on adjacent tubes.
