Comparing 4″ Pipe Threaders
Steel Dragon Tools offers two models of pipe threading machines that thread, cut and ream up to 4-inch pipe, rod, and bolts. The Steel Dragon Tools 1224 and the Steel Dragon Tools 6790 pipe threading machines both thread, cut, and ream a wide range of black, galvanized, and plastic-coated pipe, as well as stainless steel, IMC, and heavy-wall conduit. Both machines are equipped with a foot switch, reversible motor, and come with die heads and dies, and an optional stand. The Steel Dragon Tools 6790 has a threading range of 1/2 in. to 4 in. The Steel Dragon Tools 1224 has a threading range of 1/4 in. to 4 in.
There are four major difference between the 1224 and the 6790:
1: The Steel Dragon Tools 1224 is compatible with universal RIDGID® brand dies, die heads, and jaw inserts. RIDGID® or Steel Dragon Tools 711 and 714 die heads are interchangeable between the Steel Dragon Tools 1224 and the RIDGID® 1224 pipe threading machines. All universal dies will fit both die heads and machines. The Steel Dragon Tools 1224 comes with a Steel Dragon Tools 711 and Steel Dragon Tools 714 die head. The Steel Dragon Tools 6790 pipe threading machine also includes two die heads but the dies and die heads for the 6790 will only fit other compatible Steel Dragon Tools pipe threaders.
2: The Steel Dragon Tools 1224 pipe threading machine is adjustable to thread both NPT (National Pipe Thread Tape) and NPSM (National Pipe Straight Mechanical) threads. The 6790 only threads NPT. The ability of the 1224 to thread both NPT and NPSM makes it an easy choice for electrical contractors who may have to do both.
3: The Steel Dragon Tools 6790 pipe threading machine has a two-speed transmission and 750-watt induction motor. The Steel Dragon Tools 1224 has a three-speed transmission and a 1,500-watt motor. The 1224 will handle 4-inch pipe threading much easier than the 6790 due to a larger motor motor and more-powerful transmission.
4: Price. The Steel Dragon Tools 1224 is considerably more expensive than the Steel Dragon Tools 6790. Both machines, however, cost significantly less than other machines built but name-brand competitors.
Click here to learn more about the importance of pipe threading oil.
For more information on Steel Dragon Tools call 734-224-7112 or e-mail customerservice@steeldragontools.com.
Steel Dragon Tools products are available for purchase from Affordable Tool and Toolz Unlimited. Steel Dragon Tools products can also be purchased at major online retailers like Amazon, Sears, and Walmart.
RIDGID® marks are trademarks of RIDGID, Inc and are used only for product identification purposes.
“A” is for Automatic – 811A and 815A
Die heads for most Steel Dragon Tools and RIDGID® power pipe threading machines will either be automatic or non-automatic. Automatic refers the die head’s ability to automatically oil the pipe during the pipe threading process. These die heads will have a through-head oiling system. Automatic die heads will also have an “A” designation in their name like 811A or 815A.
The die head will connect to the pipe threading machine’s oil reservoir, if the machine has one (Steel Dragon Tools and RIDGID® 300 Power Drives do not have an oil reservoir and require a separate, manually operated oiler – like the Steel Dragon Tools 418 Oiler).
A pump in the pipe threading machine will push pipe threading oil to the die head where it will be distributed over the pipe during the pipe threading process. The automatic-style die head is now used across the industry. Non-automatic 811 and 815 die heads are typically not sold as new but can be found used or reconditioned. Steel Dragon Tools buys and reconditions used and broken pipe threading machines and accessories, including RIDGID® 811, 811A, 815, and 815A die heads.
Click here for more information on selling used equipment to Steel Dragon Tools.
Click here to learn more about the importance of pipe threading oil.
Click here to learn more about the difference between 811 and 815 die heads.
For more information on Steel Dragon Tools call 734-224-7112 or e-mail customerservice@steeldragontools.com.
Steel Dragon Tools products are available for purchase from Affordable Tool and Toolz Unlimited. Steel Dragon Tools products can also be purchased at major online retailers like Amazon, Sears, and Walmart.
RIDGID® marks are trademarks of RIDGID, Inc and are used only for product identification purposes.
Reconditioned RIDGID® 300
The Steel Dragon Tools Reconditioned RIDGID® 300 is a versatile power drive that can be used for pipe threading or roll grooving applications. Steel Dragon Tools is an industry leader in reconditioning and refurbishing used or broken pipe threading machines and pipe threading accessories. Each machine is disassembled, degreased, cleaned, painted, reassembled. All reconditioned machines from Steel Dragon Tools are backed by a one (1) year warranty against manufacturer defect.
Steel Dragon Tools offers the reconditioned RIDGID® 300 in several different packages. Customers can choose a package that will meet their needs. Packages include pipe threading machines with extra dies, extra die heads, or pipe threading oil.
Packages are available with either reconditioned RIDGID® accessories or Steel Dragon Tools accessories. These accessories include an 811A die head, universal high-speed dies, 360 pipe cutter, 341 pipe reamer, 311 carriage, 1206 stand, and 418 oiler bucket.
The reconditioned RIDGID® 300 is equipped with a foot pedal for hands-free operation and has a pipe threading capacity of 1/4-inch pipe to 2-inch pipe.
The reconditioned RIDGID® 300 can also be used for roll grooving with a compatible roll-grooving attachment. All reconditioned RIDGID® 300 pipe threading machines are compatible with RIDGID® and Steel Dragon Tool accessories and replacement parts.
For more information on Steel Dragon Tools call 734-224-7112 or e-mail customerservice@steeldragontools.com.
Steel Dragon Tools products are available for purchase from Affordable Tool and Toolz Unlimited. Steel Dragon Tools products can also be purchased at major online retailers like Amazon, Sears, and Walmart.
Steel Dragon Tools is always looking for used or broken pipe threading machines and pipe threading accessories. Click here for the purchase list and prices.
We are not an authorized distributor of RIDGID® and/or Ridge products. RIDGID® Marks are trademarks of RIDGID, Inc and are used for product identification purposes only.
Tools repaired and reconditioned by Steel Dragon Tools voids original warranties and certifications from Ridge Tool.
Making Pipe Dies Last
Quality pipe threading dies should last a very long time if care is taken to keep them in good working order. Steel Dragon Tools manufacturers dies that are compatible with several brand-name die heads and pipe threading machines. Steel Dragon Tools dies are made from a composite alloy or high-speed steel and, under proper working conditions, should last a very long time.
To get the most out of a set of Steel Dragon Tools dies, here are some important tips to keep in mind when threading pipe. The following tips should be applied to powered and manual pipe threading machines.
- Always use a high-quality pipe threading oil. High-quality pipe threading oil will reduce the friction between the dies and the pipe. The oil will also absorb heat during the threading process. Excess heat during the threading process can damage the dies and the pipe. Excess heat can cause metal chips to become welded to the dies. Metal chips in the die teeth will affect the consistency and shape of the threads.
- Keep the dies clean. Clean dies make for clean threads. After threading pipe, use a stiff-bristle wire brush to clean any debris that may be stuck in the die teeth.
- Install the dies properly into the die head. Dies that are not properly installed can result in damage to both the die teeth and the pipe. Double check to make sure the dies are properly installed before threading pipe.
Following these steps will help ensure that the Steel Dragon Tools dies enjoy a long operating life and provide you with many perfectly threaded pipes.
To view Steel Dragon Tools dies, click here.
For more information on the Steel Dragon Tools dies call 734-224-7112 or e-mail customerservice@steeldragontools.com.
Learn more about the importance of pipe threading oil.
Learn more about installing dies into die heads.
Learn more about Steel Dragon Tools die heads.
Steel Dragon Tools products are available for purchase from Affordable Tool and Toolz Unlimited. Steel Dragon Tools products can also be purchased at major online retailers like Amazon and Walmart.
Sell Your Used Pipe Threading Tools
Steel Dragon Tools will buy used and broken pipe threading machines and accessories. Steel Dragon Tools started refurbishing pipe threading machines in 2009 and is always looking for items to refurbish.
Power Pipe Threaders:
| RIDGID® | 1822 Pipe Threader |
| RIDGID® | 1224 Pipe Threader with Die Head |
| RIDGID® | 1215 Pipe Threader |
| RIDGID® | 700 Handheld Threader |
| RIDGID® | All Model 535 Pipe Threaders |
| RIDGID® | 300C Pipe Threader |
| RIDGID® | 300 Power Drive and Accessories |
Carts for Machines:
| RIDGID® | 150A Cart |
| RIDGID® | 200A Cart |
Power Threader Parts:
| RIDGID® | Cast and Stamped Foot Pedals |
| RIDGID® | 300 Motors and Gearboxes |
| RIDGID® | 300C Motors and Gearboxes |
| RIDGID® | 535 Motors and Gearboxes |
Pipe Threading Accessories:
| RIDGID® | 141 Hog Heads |
| RIDGID® | 161 Hog Heads |
| RIDGID® | 811 and 815 Die Heads |
| RIDGID® | 811A and 815A Die Heads |
| RIDGID® | 12R Die Heads |
| RIDGID® | 12R Ratchet |
| RIDGID® | 774 Square Drive Adpt. |
| RIDGID® | 844 Drive Bars |
| RIDGID® | 840A Universal Driveshafts |
| RIDGID® | 2A Pipe Cutters |
| RIDGID® | 728 Loops for Hog Head |
| RIDGID® | 775 Support Arm |
| RIDGID® | 1452 Tric Trays |
| RIDGID® | 311 Carriages |
| RIDGID® | 341 Reamers |
| RIDGID® | 360 Cutters |
| RIDGID® | 254 Spiral Reamers |
Tristands and Vises:
| RIDGID® | 1205 Tristand |
| RIDGID® | 460 Chain Vise Tristand |
| RIDGID® | 450 Chain Vise Tristand |
| RIDGID® | 40-A Yoke Vise Tristand |
All prices will vary depending on machine condition and current inventory.
Please send photos and contact information to: apietszak@steeldragontools.com or call 734-224-7112.
We are not an authorized distributor of RIDGID® and/or Ridge products. RIDGID® Marks are trademarks of RIDGID, Inc and are used for product identification purposes only.
The Common Traits of High-Performance Threading Oil
One of the most important elements when threading pipe, manually or with a machine, is the use of high-performance threading oil. High-performance threading oil is critical to producing straight and sharp threads when threading pipe. High-quality, professional-grade pipe threading oil from Steel Dragon Tools will facilitate perfect pipe threads every time.
Not all pipe threading oil is created equal. High-performance threading oil has four common characteristics:
1. LUBRICITY. The oil must have high lubricity to minimize load and reduce friction. Threading oil with high lubricity will reduce the friction between the dies and the material being threaded. Threading oil chemically bonds to the threaded surface and transforms into a metal film as dies cut away material. This metal film lowers the coefficient of friction and the load is reduced, resulting in threads that are straight and sharp.
2. HEAT ABSORBPSTION. Threading oil must absorb heat and immediately conduct it away from the threads. Excessive heat at the cutting surface leads to premature wear of the dies, metal chips welded on to the cutting edge of the dies, and torn, disfigured, or wavy threads.
3. ADHESION. Threading oil should cling to the pipe surface even in extreme temperatures. Oil with the proper viscosity will stick to the surface of the pipe during the threading process. This oil will transform into a metal film, reducing friction and absorbing heat as the pipe is threaded. The lowered friction and cooler temperature will result in straight and sharp threads.
4. CONSISTENCY. The viscosity and effectiveness of the oil must remain consistent throughout its operating life. High-quality threading oil will resist oxidation and will not have any volatile c
ompounds that can evaporate. The performance of the oil should remain effective throughout its life cycle.
With proper care, high-quality threading oil will never need to be changed. Threading oil only needs to be changed if the oil is contaminated with solvents, other oils, dirt, or grit. New oil should be added as needed to maintain the proper level in the oil sump of the pipe threading machine or the oiling bucket. Oil loss while threading pipe is common since 
the oil will stick to the threaded material.
High-performance threading oil from Steel Dragon Tools has high lubricity, and will absorb and dissipate heat immediately. Steel Dragon Tool threading oil easily clings to threading surfaces, and maintains a consistent viscosity throughout its operating life. Steel Dragon Tools threading oil does not contain PCBs, heavy metals, chlorine, or other halogens.
To purchase the Steel Dragon Tools high-performance threading oil, visit Craig’s Affordable Tools or Toolz Unlimited.
For more information on the Steel Dragon Tools high-performance threading oil call 734-224-7112 or e-mail customerservice@steeldragontools.com.