Which tool is ideal for removing a broken pipe nipple?

The ideal tool for removing a broken pipe nipple is the easy out. An easy out is specifically designed for extracting broken studs, bolts, or pipe nipples. This tool features a tapered design with reverse threads that grip into the broken piece as it is turned counterclockwise, allowing it to be safely removed from the surrounding material without causing further damage.

The use of an easy out is particularly advantageous when the broken part is flush or below the surface, as it can be inserted into a pre-drilled hole as a means of engaging with the remaining piece of the nipple. This process effectively allows for a secure grip and the torque necessary to dislodge the broken section.

Other tools such as taps and reamers serve different purposes in metalworking and plumbing. Taps are used for cutting threads into materials, while reamers are meant for enlarging or finishing existing holes rather than extracting broken pieces. Drill bits, on the other hand, can be used to create holes for various purposes but typically do not possess the same extraction capability as an easy out when it comes to broken parts. Thus, the easy out stands out as the appropriate tool for this specific task.