Choosing Between Pipe Cutters with Two or Three Carriers: What You Need to Know

Choosing Between Pipe Cutters with Two or Three Carriers: What You Need to Know

When working with metal or plastic pipes, the quality of the cut directly affects joint reliability, system tightness, and the overall lifespan of the pipeline. Choosing the right pipe cutter is essential for efficient and precise work. A common question in practice is: should you choose a pipe cutter with two or three carriers?

What “Carriers” Mean in a Pipe Cutter

Carriers usually refer to support rollers or guides that keep the pipe securely fixed during cutting. The number of carriers directly affects:

• Tool stability during rotation

• Cutting accuracy and perpendicularity

• Ease of working with pipes of different diameters and materials

The most common designs feature either two or three carriers.

Pipe Cutters with Two Carriers: Features and Applications

Design and Operation
A two-carrier pipe cutter has two support rollers between which the pipe is placed. During cutting, the cutting wheel is gradually pressed against the pipe surface using a screw mechanism, and the tool is rotated around the pipe axis until the pipe is fully cut through.

Advantages:

• Simple design, lightweight and compact tool

• Lower cost compared to three-carrier models

• Convenient for working in tight spaces

• Less rotational inertia

• Suitable for cutting small-diameter pipes

Limitations:

• Lower stability

• Greater risk of axis deviation in the cut

• Oval cuts possible, especially with thin-walled or slippery pipes

• Limited use for larger diameter or harder materials

Pipe Cutters with Three Carriers: Advantages

Design and Operation
A three-carrier pipe cutter secures the pipe with three evenly spaced support rollers, allowing the cutting wheel to operate more precisely.

Advantages:

• High stability, especially for large or hard pipes

• More uniform and perpendicular cuts

• Minimal deviation of the cutting line

• Reduced pipe deformation during operation

Possible Drawbacks:

• More complex construction

• Slightly heavier tool

• Higher price

Comparison Table: 2 vs 3 Carriers

Which Pipe Cutter to Choose

• For home use, occasional installations, or small-diameter pipes: Two-carrier models

• For professional or intensive use, large-diameter or hard pipes: Three-carrier models

Golden Laser: Two and Three Carrier Models

The company Golden Laser (Wuhan Golden Laser Co., Ltd.) produces precise, reliable pipe cutting machines for both domestic and industrial use.
The i (Intelligent) Series offers models with 2 or 3 carriers: