How to Use a Tap
Determine the size and depth of the thread that you want., Refer to a technical publication for the exact measurements for hole size., Drill the hole to the correct diameter and depth.,Secure the workpiece firmly., Apply an appropriate lubricant...
Step-by-Step Guide
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Step 1: Determine the size and depth of the thread that you want.
What size screw will go into this hole? -
Step 2: Refer to a technical publication for the exact measurements for hole size.
For example, if you want to use a 1/4-20 screw then you must use a #7 drill bit.
Your set of taps may also state the appropriate hole size to use with each tap. , Remember that taps generally cannot thread all the way to the bottom of a blind hole, so a blind hole must be a bit deeper than the required thread depth. ,, WD-40 is not any good as a lubricant on anything other than aluminum because it is just Kerosene (with the CAS of aviation grade fuel oil).
Never lube cast iron unless you can flood it with a water based coolant which is just for chip flushing.
Otherwise use compressed air. ,, Try to keep it very straight as you turn, this is important.
You may feel the material breaking. , This is especially important in a blind hole, one that does not go all the way through the workpiece. , -
Step 3: Drill the hole to the correct diameter and depth.
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Step 4: Secure the workpiece firmly.
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Step 5: Apply an appropriate lubricant such as oil
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Step 6: or a proprietary formula.
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Step 7: If the tap set has a separate handle or rod
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Step 8: insert it.
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Step 9: Hold the tap in line with the hole and turn it clockwise.
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Step 10: Every few turns
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Step 11: back the tap out (counterclockwise/anticlockwise) to clear away chips of loose material.
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Step 12: When the tap has reached the required depth
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Step 13: back it out
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Step 14: clean out chips and any cutting fluid or lubricant
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Step 15: and try your screw or bolt in it.
Detailed Guide
What size screw will go into this hole?
For example, if you want to use a 1/4-20 screw then you must use a #7 drill bit.
Your set of taps may also state the appropriate hole size to use with each tap. , Remember that taps generally cannot thread all the way to the bottom of a blind hole, so a blind hole must be a bit deeper than the required thread depth. ,, WD-40 is not any good as a lubricant on anything other than aluminum because it is just Kerosene (with the CAS of aviation grade fuel oil).
Never lube cast iron unless you can flood it with a water based coolant which is just for chip flushing.
Otherwise use compressed air. ,, Try to keep it very straight as you turn, this is important.
You may feel the material breaking. , This is especially important in a blind hole, one that does not go all the way through the workpiece. ,
About the Author
Jordan Ortiz
With a background in education and learning, Jordan Ortiz brings 3 years of hands-on experience to every article. Jordan believes in making complex topics accessible to everyone.
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