How to Select the Optimal Tap for Desired Results
Production tapping requires added diligence when selecting the best possible tap. The number of parts or holes to be tapped, the specifications or class of fit required, and most importantly, the grade and condition of the material are all considerations when choosing the most effective tap.
Hand Taps
General purpose hand taps are most commonly used by shops that tap a variety of materials using different machines. The hand tap is most suitable for flexibility of applications when most materials are machined without difficulty.
Spiral Point Taps
If you are threading a lot of alloyed steel and stainless steel and the configuration of the parts present through holes, spiral point taps are recommended. These taps push the chips forward with a shearing action, eliminating any issues of chips interfering with the threads.
Spiral Fluted Taps
Spiral fluted taps are designed to be most effective in blind holes. The spiral flutes lift the chips as they are cut to prevent re-cutting due to chips packing the flutes. An added benefit is the elimination of hole cleaning after tapping.
Forming Taps
Forming taps are most effective in non-ferrous materials that are pliable. Since they have no cutting edges to wear down and no chips are produced, longer life and quality threads are achieved. They are frequently used in medium to long running jobs as the setup may take longer.
High Performance Taps
High performance, material specific taps—such as Regal’s SuperTuf line—may be the answer when choosing the best production tapping option for your job. Designs for cutting difficult materials (including stainless steel, titanium, nickel alloys or even aluminum) differ, and the base material the tap is made of can vary as well. Also, an important consideration is selecting a premium coating that can help extend a tool’s life.
It is critical to consider all aspects of the tapping application to ensure that you select the best option. Need help selecting? Contact one of our experts today!