When threading pipe by hand, how many turns back should you back off after each complete forward turn?

When threading pipe by hand, it's important to back off a quarter turn after each complete forward turn to ensure that the cutting process is efficient and effective. This practice helps to break the chips formed during the threading process, preventing them from becoming jammed in the die or on the pipe. By backing off that quarter turn, the die can cleanly cut the threads without excessive friction, which could lead to damage or an uneven thread profile.

This technique not only aids in maintaining the quality of the threads but also prolongs the life of the threading tools. Proper threading is essential for creating strong connections between pipes, thus it is crucial to adhere to this method for optimal results in plumbing work.