Taps

The tap is a cutting tool for producing a thread in a hole. There are taps for all types of threads. Threads (Metric, Inches, for VCoil & PG Electrical.)

Taps have flutes for 3 reasons: to provide cutting edges, to provide space for chips (chip control), and to channel cutting fluid during cutting. Straight flute taps are the most widely used due to their ease of manufacture and because they perform satisfactorily in most cases.

Taps have 3 different types of chamfer at their tip.

• Taper chamfer (7-9 threads
• plug chamfer (3-5 thread)
• bottoming chamfer (1 - 1 1/2 thread)

The first category (taper chamfer) distributes the cutting load over the largest number of threads and allows easier starting of the cut on the workpiece. Therefore, this type is particularly suitable for difficult-to-machine metals. Naturally, taps with a taper chamfer are rarely suitable for blind holes (a large part of the hole will remain unthreaded). In addition, they require greater depth than the other types to produce full threads in through holes.

The second category (plug chamfer) is the most widely used type. Because this type does not need to penetrate as deeply, it is faster in production.

Finally, the (bottoming chamfer) category is usually used only for blind holes.

Taps are also divided into hand taps and machine taps. Hand taps are also called Sets, since they are supplied in sets of 3 or 2 pieces depending on the size.