I will need to tap holes from m5 to m12 on my build in Ali and Steel... I was thinking of buying my first set of taps... What do people think of these ??
http://www.toolbox.co.uk/draper-4089...ign=GoogleBase
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I will need to tap holes from m5 to m12 on my build in Ali and Steel... I was thinking of buying my first set of taps... What do people think of these ??
http://www.toolbox.co.uk/draper-4089...ign=GoogleBase
Oh an I had my eye on this rachet wrench too
http://item.mobileweb.ebay.co.uk/vie...d=120538092442
That rachet is OK, I would also get a longer one of the same type, very useful, gets your paws out of the road!
Peter
Taps look to be OK, best to only get HSS :courage:
how does a ratchet work when your tapping then? i was taught to do 180 turn, then twist back a little to free the swarf then do another 180... if your using a ratchet i presume u just keep winding in till your done
I have that exact same set, I've found them to be very good.Quote:
Originally Posted by JoeHarris
A set like that would might be OK to start you off, but you're going to need to replace the ones you use/break most often.
I bought a comprehensive boxed set from M3 to M14 & replace when needed from MSC Industrial Supply Co..
I've been using these taps.....
HSS Tap Set M8 x 1.25 8mm | eBay
....and these drills
1 x 8.0MM COBALT DRILL BITS 8MM DRILLS TOP QUALITY | eBay
...today. Got about 50 holes of M6 and M8 drilled and tapped in ali and steel and the tools are just beginning to dull.
Thanks guys, now all I need to do is convince someone to fork out for christmas!!
Hi Wilfy
The ratchet is most useful when cleaning up lots of threads in awkward places. Ypur right on the 180 backwards when cutting new threads. I find the ratchet is also useful for those very awkward places where a normal tap holder cannot go, not easy flipping the ratcket but needs must as they say!!
peter
Morning Guys,
Typically I just buy what I need size wise as and when I need them, normally I would back the tap off a quarter of a turn then do my 180, I think some people use a little lube when tapping, personally I don’t bother.
As been said really I think the ratchet is most useful when doing your second and 3rd tap, not done any work with a bottoming tap to date so not sure a ratchet would make that job any easier.
Can’t say I’ve ever broke any either, would suggest using the right size bore for the tap you want to use.
.Me
Ok so what's the score with coarse v fine ? Which category does a standard metric bolt sit in?!
Also can you hand tap with a spiral point?
I believe the standard preferred metric screw thread is the coarse thread. Fine is generally used when wall thickness is less than you'd ideally like.Quote:
Originally Posted by JoeHarris
No idea about the spiral tap, I'd guess tho that it's mostly for drilling with a hand drill. I put my tap in a cordless drill when I had 48 M8 holes to tap when I was doing some bits for my early design (which has since been scrapped)
Attachment 7420
...and end up spending more in the long run than if you had bought a set. I bought one with had the standard 3 of each tap, and dies from M3 to M12 a couple of years ago and it's been invaluable. I've since replaced a few, generally with odd ones I find at the car boot sale.Quote:
Originally Posted by Lee Roberts
Then you're missing out. Use something with a low viscosity (WD40, coolant, tea...) works well for aluminium and a tapping paste for hard materials. It will make the taps last longer and increase productivity since if the tap is lubricated you can often get away without periodically reversing.Quote:
Originally Posted by Lee Roberts
Yes, so long as it is not a blind hole a spiral point tap is generally the best choice for aluminium.Quote:
Originally Posted by JoeHarris
CorrectQuote:
Originally Posted by njhussey
P.S. Anyone want to come and tap about 1000 M8 holes for me ;) ?
I bought a set of taps from a hardware store about 12 years ago...only one of each size from M3 to M12 with M8 & up having a few different pitches...they're mostly (haven't a clue if they're all still there) all in a rusty pile in my tool box (the partners son borrowed my tool box when I was away and left it out in the rain for a weekend :( ) I know I have M8, M6 and M4 as I've just looked but will treat myself to some new ones for my build :)
I use cutting fluid I've borrowed from work...must take it back...
Thanks everyone, really helpful. Jonathan, I am excited about getting my first set and learning how but you can keep your 1000 holes!