Use of "Thread Forming Taps"

levittownnick

Senior Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Jul 2, 2003
Messages
789
Thread Forming Taps thread material by moving material rather than by cutting. I have never seen these taps in operation and would like to know the limitations and procedures required. Would you relate your experience with these taps?

Thanks,
Nick
 

Limited-Time

Vice Admiral
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Mar 30, 2005
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Re: Use of "Thread Forming Taps"

Thread forming taps do not cut threads. They form threads by displacing material. They generate threads without producing chips. They are restricted to materials that are readily malleable. Like brass, alum, and leaded steel for example. They are often call "chip-less taps' because they form rather than "cut" the threads. The require a larger "tap drill size" to accommodate the flow of the material into the threaded form. They also produce a stronger thread as they reform the material rather than cut it.
I have only ever seen them used in automated or machine tapping applications. Never in a hand tapping instance.
 
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barrya58

Cadet
Joined
Oct 29, 2013
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11
Re: Use of "Thread Forming Taps"

Been in Tool & Die/Machinist for 35+ years. Worked on several dies that form tapped during the process. Don't know of a way to hand tap, although there MAY be a way. Barry
 

levittownnick

Senior Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Jul 2, 2003
Messages
789
Re: Use of "Thread Forming Taps"

Thanks for the information. I knew there must be a reason these taps are not too popular.

Thanks,
Nick
 
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