Tapping threads into metal - Page 3

KenC · #61 Sun 07 February 2010, 04:23

I experimented with all the method suggested, cordless power drill, the pneumatic wrench, even auto tapping machine. But like Gerald, my favorite goes to hand tap using spiral point bits... After a few slanted tap holes & a broken bit, like cycling, everything just went on without a glitch. The monotonous back & for turning action with timely squeeze of WD40 is calming to the mental health. Also its easy on me ears & no need to dough flying chips.

Tap all the holes on the main beam takes less then an hour,,, not too slow in my opinion. Just grap a stool & its really comfortable.

Regnar · #62 Sun 07 February 2010, 18:35

Ken, Sorry you didnt enjoy the Pnuematic Wrench. Almost everyone I have shown enjoys tapping that way. I will agree that it gets kinda loud but I just throw on my Ipod and some ear muffs.

KenC · #63 Sun 07 February 2010, 18:42

Russel,
don't get me wrong, your wrench method is fast. It will be my 1st choice if mass production is involve. Just that I do work late into the night, so hand tap helps to keep complain down

PS,
I have a boom box in the shop, I don't like to expose to the danger of loose ear phone wire entangle with anything while working, it can be dangerous at times. Moreover, I feel secure when I can hear whatever that is happening around me... Just some of my hard habits...

Gerald D · #64 Sun 07 February 2010, 20:18

Quote:

Originally Posted by KenC

like Gerald, my favorite goes to hand tap .....

Okay Ken, I think we have another misunderstanding; My favourite is NOT handtapping. (I go cordless drill just because they are normally lying around)

KenC · #65 Mon 08 February 2010, 04:15

Ooops, another blunder, sorry Gerald.

PEU · #66 Wed 10 February 2010, 08:49

Quote:

Originally Posted by Gerald D

After tapping a thread, it is good practice to lightly de-burr the entry/exit with a countersink cutter.

Depending on the thread pitch I do this operation before tapping.

Red_boards · #67 Mon 22 November 2010, 01:28

Is it an idea to pass the tapping head through a block of wood to help keep it vertical?

KenC · #68 Mon 22 November 2010, 01:52

That can work.

MetalHead · #69 Mon 22 November 2010, 08:39

I have seen that done before. Here are some cool ideas.

http://www.rockler.com/blog/index.cf...E0FA7D26277FE0

tjstamp · #70 Wed 22 December 2010, 09:44

if you have a standard tap start with that and finish with a bottoming tap. to keep it straight by hand is just practice. it isn't to hard if you take it slow.