process of
producing threads in a metal.
tapping
spiral or helical ridge
found on nuts and bolts.
Thread is specified by the diameter
and the pitch
thread
most common types of taps and a cutting tools
used to create internal threads (female threads) in a hole
manually, usually with a tap wrench. They are commonly used in
repair work, low-volume production, or situations where
precision and control are needed but machine tapping is not
hand taps
A bottoming tap has almost no taper at the end
because it is designed to thread all the way to the
bottom of its reach. Only 1 to 1.5 threads will be
tapered.
bottoming tap
are in between Bottoming and Taper Taps
because they have 3-5 threads tapered, which is
more than a Bottoming Tap and less than a Taper
plug tap
has almost no taper at the end
because it is designed to thread all the way to the
bottom of its reach. Only 1 to 1.5 threads will be
tapered.
bottoming tap
has quite a lot of taper to help it ease
into cutting threads gradually. Typically, the first 8
to 10 threads are tapered. Taper Taps are the most
common types of taps and are typically what you’ll
have in a Tap and Die Set.
taper tap
are taps designed to cut threads using power-
driven equipment such as CNC machines, drill presses, or
tapping machines. They are built to handle higher speeds,
greater forces, and continuous operation. Power taps often
feature stronger materials, optimized flute designs, and tighter
tolerances to ensure smooth, accurate, and efficient threading
in production environments. They enable faster cycle times,
improved thread quality, and longer tool life compared to hand
taps, making them ideal for high-volume or automated
manufacturing processes.
power tap
Spiral Point Taps (Gun Nose or Bull Nose Taps)
have an open spiral like an endmill, which ejects chips upward, making them
ideal for blind holes. They are also preferred for interrupted holes, as the spiral
design helps restart threading past intersecting features.
form or roll taps (thread forming taps)
these are thread taps with a long shank to facilitate reaching difficult holes that
are blocked by other features on the part.
extension taps (long shank taps)
these thread taps only have a tooth for every other thread to provide improved
chip extraction. Removing every other tooth helps break chips and also provides
more room for the chip to escape and for lubricant to come in and do its job. Used
for tough or abrasive materials and deep or difficult holes.
Interrupted Thread Tap
makes tapered threads that seal tightly for fluid or air systems and creates
threads that become tighter as the tap goes deeper. It is required in plumbing,
hydraulics, pneumatics, and piping systems.
pipe taps
straight grooves and cuts evenly on all sides. Often used for harder materials
or short-chipping materials like cast iron and general-purpose tap but not as
efficient as spiral taps in chip evacuation.
Straight Flute Tap
tapered end of a tap that helps start threads smoothly.
chamfer
Special Purpose of Taps
Creating Internal Threads: The primary purpose of tapping is to cut
internal threads in pre-drilled holes.
Facilitating Assembly: Tapping enables the assembly of parts in
various industries, including automotive, aerospace, and
manufacturing.
Precision and Strength: Tapping provides precise control over
thread depth and quality, which is essential for ensuring that
fasteners fit correctly and can withstand mechanical loads.
Efficiency in Production: Automated tapping
machines improve production efficiency by
allowing for rapid and consistent creation of
threaded holes.
Versatility: Tapping can be performed
on various materials, including metals
and plastics, making it a versatile
technique in machining.
grooves in the tap that allow chips to escape during cutting.
flute
hole that goes completely through the material.
through hole
hole that does not go all the way through
blind hole
distance between threads, measured in mm or threads per inch (TPI)
thread pitch
standard size of the tap or thread
nominal size
distance the thread extends into the hole.
thread depth
angle of spiral cutting edges, which affects chip removal.
helix angle
gradual reduction in diameter at the start of a tap.
taper