1. Low maintenance
The Smart Cutter from Sewer Equipment Company of America is a low-maintenance, high-torque root cutter. Guaranteed against rust-related lock-up, the unit includes eight self-lubricating Nylatron wheels on adjustable roller skids. 800/323-1604; www.sewerequipment.com.
2. Low torque, variable speed
The Lumberjack cutter from Nozzteq Inc. is a low-torque, variable-speed cutting nozzle, powered by sewer jetting or combination trucks. Cutting chains rotate at 10,000 to 50,000 rpm, depending on pressure and flow. Low torque reduces the risk of getting stuck, reduces harm to host pipe, and keeps the cutter from spinning off the hose end. The device is sealed, grease-lubricated and water-cooled to minimize maintenance. The drive shaft and turbine are made of hardened steel, and the supply tube is made of stainless steel. Four models clear pipes from 3 to 48 inches. 866/620-5915; www.nozzteq.com.
High pressures
The Wire Rope and Chain Scraper by Enz USA Inc. has a working pressure up to 4,000 psi. It can be adapted to a wide range of pipe diameters by adjusting the skid and selecting the right chain length. For extra-heavy deposits, chains with welded manganese steel plates and roller chain attachments are available for larger chain cutters. 630/692-7880; www.enzusainc.com.
3. Centered cutter
The Ripper from DML LLC is designed to work with hydraulic motors and root saws to increase their effectiveness and productivity. Cables help suspend the motor and saw assembly, keeping them centered in the pipe and minimizing problems caused by offsets and projecting taps. This also prolongs the life of the saw blade by keeping it off the bottom of the pipe. The scrubbing action of the cables is non-destructive, allowing root cutting in vulnerable clay pipes. 630/293-3653; www.rootripper.com.
Small pipes
The Hummingbird Micro-Cutter by KEG Technologies Inc. is designed for 2-, 3- and 4-inch pipes. It comes in 1/2-inch NPT hose connections. The device requires at least 8 gpm and 1,200 psi. Four-inch pipes require the use of a centering skid. 866/595-0515; www.kegtechnologies.net.
4. Cables chains
Chempure Products Corp. offers the 1/2-inch Root Rat combo kit, which includes cable and chain rotors. Flows range from 12 to 30 gpm and pressures from 1,500 to 10,000 psi. The unit, which weighs 1 1/2 pounds, can make a 4-inch, 90-degree turn. The chain pocket accepts bicycle and flail chain. Optional items include an aluminum skid ring, holesaw blade, and SS thruster for long pulls. 800/288-7873; www.chempure.com.
Three rotational jets
The Spider 80 Chain Cutter by Lindhorst Workhorse Nozzles has three rotational jets for high torque and speed. The unit also has several hardened chain styles, precut to fit each pipe size. Adjustable skids are designed to fit various pipe applications. 702/324-2244; www.lindhorstnozzles.com.
5. Motor and skid
The Contractor Duty by Shamrock Pipe Tools Inc. is a root cutter motor with skid that cleans 6- to 18-inch pipes. It supports a special 18-inch root cutter blade, as well as other color-coded concave, circular, and cable-style cutters. The internally ported, heavy-duty hydraulic power unit has a built-in grease system. Its 2,250 inch-pounds of torque helps prevent stalling. The device weighs 20 pounds. 800/633-7696; www.shamrockpipetools.com.
Carbide teeth
The Super Size Root Cutter by Productive Carbides Inc. works in pipes up to 27 inches. Two lobes are driven off the center shaft of standard hydraulic drivers for improved balance. The unit also includes carbide teeth. 800/676-7649; www.productivecarbides.com.
6. Complete kit
The OBJ-1467 by O’Brien Manufacturing allows operating pressures from 800 to 4,000 psi and flow rates up to 18 gpm. The standard kit includes toolbox and tools; 4-, 6- and 8-inch skids; and 4-, 6- and 8-inch saws. 800/638-1901; www.obrienmfg.com.
7. Turbine drive
The Turbo IV flexible chain cutter by USB Sewer Equipment Corporation is driven by a high-performance turbine and requires no lubrication. The stainless steel unit has continuously adjustable guide skids and threaded ceramic nozzle inserts. It works in pipes from 15 to 36 inches. 770/984-8880;www.usbsec.com.
