Removing A Broken Pipe Using A Nipple Extractor

Working on old galvanized water lines can lead to unexpected problems. Having the proper tools can make your water line repair easy. When fixing pin hole leaks in pipes, it’s best to remove as much pipe as possible. This picture shows a project I recently tackled. The water leak is under the concrete floor . I cut the 1/2″ galvanized pipe a few inches from the tee. Next, I attempted to unscrew the remaining pipe using a pipe wrench while also using a backup wrench on the tee. But, the short piece of pipe simply crushed because it was so thin. At this point I resorted to cutting the pipe off at the tee. This is when you need a special tool. Since this is a 1/2″ pipe I chose a 1/2″ Nipple Extractor. It is tapered from one end to the other and has a square head to receive a wrench. You simply insert it into the pipe until it fits snug. While applying pressure start to turn it in the reverse direction to extract the pipe. As it turns the sharp edges bit into the inside pipe wall. Presto, out comes the pipe from the fitting. While a nipple extractor is not a common tool, when you need one, there is no substitute. Another great use for the extractor is on broken shower arms. The process is the same. Insert the tool into the elbow and twist to remove the remaining nipple.

1/2″ Nipple Extractor This extractor removes nipples, bolts and screws. Made of high carbon steel. Left hand spiral, tapered flute removes broken piece without damage to threads.

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