How Do You Cut a Threaded Rod?

Date Posted:

August 23, 2017

Post Author:

Marsh Fasteners

Last Updated on October 12, 2022 by Marsh Fasteners

If it’s your first time cutting threaded rod, the chances are good that you’re expecting the process to be quite straightforward, just as long as you have the right tools on hand – namely a vise and a hacksaw. However, if you’re a second-timer, you will be well aware that it is a little bit more complicated than that! Here are our top tips for getting it right the first time.

How to Stop the Rod from Spinning

In order to prevent the rod from spinning, avoid clamping it directly in the vice. Keep things more secure by tightening a wooden block in the vice instead and drill a hole just large enough for the rod to pass through near the end of the block. Allow a thin kerf to guide your hacksaw blade while making the cut.

Use an Angle Grinder

In order to do it this way, you will need a bench vice and an angle grinder with a metal cut-off wheel. Grab a Sharpie and use it to mark off the exact place at which you plan to cut before securing the head of the bolt in the vice. Once the angle grinder is turned on and ready, make sure that you cut through the rod at a flat angle. Remember to wait a while after making the cut before touching the bolt, as the metal will be extremely hot.

One Last Tip

Always remember to place the nut on the bolt before you cut off the end. This is because the threads can be affected and make it nearly impossible to get the bolt back on afterwards. Luckily, if the nut is already on it, when you unscrew it, it will help to straighten things back out again.

Here at Marshfasteners, we specialize in the sale of bolts and threaded rods, all of which are made out of the highest quality stainless steel. To learn more about our product range, please do not hesitate to get in touch with our team.