Thread Taps

Resource Description

Thread Taps

A tap is applied to cut new threads or chase existing threads in a screw system. This tool is generally applied by technicians for several operations. There are three major types of thread taps: Taper, plug, and bottoming taps. The thread tap may be determined by the cutting edges.

Types Of Thread Taps

There are various types of thread taps applied for different purposes. There are major common types described below:

A Straight Flute Tap is a type of tap that is considered the simplest type of thread tap. A large cross-section of the cutting edge creates the straight flute tap that makes them an ideal solution for cutting threads into metals. This thread tap is straight and produced to be applied manually.

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Gun Tap includes an angular cutting face on its end and a straight flute. This specific type of thread tap provides a close and exact cut as its angular cutting face helps to boost the piece of the material in front of the tap to make sure it won’t interfere when the tap is applied.

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Spiral Flute Tap is generally applied with machines, on aluminum, and on soft steel. The threading is deeper and more accurate when this type of tap is applied because the tap’s shape provides the chips to be propelled properly and clearly out of the hole.

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Spiral Pointed Tap is a specific type of tap produced to be applied for high-speed production. This tap includes only one major flute that is ground at an angle to the access of the tap. The spiral pointed tap is similar to a gun tap as they also include a proper chip in front of the tap so the thread won’t be affected.

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Forming Tap differs from the most common thread taps. A forming tap is similar to a flueless tap or roll tap, as it easily displaces the metal into the thread shape while being turned into the hole, instead of cutting the metal from the sides of the hole as a cutting tap does. The forming tap is like a cutting tap without flutes, or very close to the plain thread.

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Combination Drills and Taps provide for making holes and cutting threads in a single cross at high speeds. They are self-adjusting and are applied through the holes to turn the depth of the tap diameter. These taps match ideally for use in construction.

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Thread Forming Taps don’t cut threads; they create threads by displacing material. They produce threads without generating chips. They are applied on mild steels, carbon steels, and low or medium alloys.

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How To Use A Tap And Die Set?

Step 1: Consider The Thread Per Inch

Tapping is an operation when the thread is cut into the hole. A die set is applied to cut threads onto the bolt. To apply the tap, you should consider the number of threads per inch of the park to be attached. After considering the type of bolt, select the die that relates to it. A tapered die will show you which type to start applying. The die matches a specific wrench that holds it.

Step 2: Make New Threads

To apply the die to make new threads on a worn-down bolt, place the bolt into the vise to hold it as the wrench is turned. Take the die over the bolt and hold it in the horizontal direction. Turn the wrench, the die will be caught on the thread to cut into the bolt. Reverse the wrench about a half of a turn, every couple of turns, to clear the thread the way the die will cut better. Twist the wrench when the bolt comes through the top of the die.

Step 3: Turn a Steel Rod Into A Bolt

A die set may also be applied to twist a normal steel rod into the bolt. If it is required, chamfer the end of the rod on a grinder to get a bevel. The die won’t work properly with a flat-ended rod. Oil the rid, when cutting into the worn bolt. Twist gently to achieve the desired results.

Step 4:Apply The Tap

To apply the tap select the size that matches the size of the bolt or the hole you need to thread. Take the tap and fasten it into the specific wrench. After that take the cutting end of the tap and place it over the hole and turn. Apply the cutting oil to grease the tap.

What Material Are Used For Thread Taps

  • Bright produces a smooth, polished complete on the tool. It boosts chip flow in softer materials like aluminum, wood, and plastic.
  • TiN (Titanium Nitride) is a multi-functional coating that boosts chip flow in softer materials. Such material provides heat and hardness resistance thus providing the tool to run at higher speeds.
  • TiCN (Titanium Carbonitride) is a harder and more wear-resistant material than TiN. This material is applied to stainless steel, cast iron, and aluminum alloy.
  • Oxide known as black or steam oxide is a specific surface treatment that prevents chip building, galling, and welding on the workpiece. It is most commonly applied on low carbons, stainless steel, and ferrous metals.
  • Chrome Plate is a specific covering that offers proper anti-friction properties. It is most often applied on steel, aluminum, brass, copper, or other non-chromium materials.
  • Nitride is a thin, hard-shell covering that protects the surface from the hardness of the tool. It is applied when abrasive and wearing conditions exist.
  • AlCrN (Aluminum Chromium Nitride) is more heat-resistant than AlTiN. This material is most often applied for machining aircraft and space materials, nickel alloy, stainless steel, titanium, and carbon steel.
  • AlCrTiN (Aluminum Chromium Titanium Nitride) is a heat- and wear-resistant multilayer covering. It is produced for improving tool life and proper thread completion.

Important Tips

Taps generally include various flutes constructed in their design. A high amount of flutes boosts the strength of the tap and lessens the space and chip flow.

The thread size is determined by the number of threads per inch that is measured along the length of the cap (metric sizes of threads relate to threads pitch).

The chamfer is the length of the tapering thread in front of the tap. The chambered portions of the tap and the first full thread beyond the chamfer generate the completed thread of the part.

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