High-Speed Steel Hand Taps

More Details

Alpha HSS Hand Taps Overview

Precision-Crafted and Versatile
Alpha HSS Hand Taps are precision-crafted in Europe, adhering to ISO529 standards. These versatile high-speed steel hand taps are suitable for both hand and machine operations, making them ideal for production use. With a 2N tolerance, they ensure an optimal thread fit that balances fastener performance, manufacturing efficiency, and convenience.

Material Compatibility
These taps can be used with materials such as steel, aluminum, copper, and brass. For best results, always use lubricant such as the ATL005 Alpha Liquid Gold Cutting Fluid | 250ml.

Intermediate High-Speed Steel Hand Taps

General-Purpose Applications
INTERMEDIATE high-speed steel hand taps feature a lead of four threads, making them suitable for most general-purpose applications. Alpha Intermediate taps are easily identifiable by the two rings on the shaft near the driving square.

Product Codes and Descriptions

• ME-MCHI030: HSS Tap MC Intermediate - 3x0.5
• ME-MCHI035: HSS Tap MC Intermediate - 3.5x0.5
• ME-MCHI040: HSS Tap MC Intermediate - 4x0.7
• ME-MCHI050: HSS Tap MC Intermediate - 5x0.8
• ME-MCHI060: HSS Tap MC Intermediate - 6x1
• ME-MCHI080: HSS Tap MC Intermediate - 8x1.25
• ME-MCHI100: HSS Tap MC Intermediate - 10x1.5

Click here for the full range of thread tapping gear that can be ordered through MerCs.
Click here for the MerCs Taptite Style Shaped Thread Self Forming Screws.

Best Practices for Using HSS Hand Taps

Preparation

1. Select the Right Tap and Drill Size
   Ensure the tap and drill bit match the size of the screw or bolt you plan to use. Tap and drill sets often include matching sizes.
2. Secure the Workpiece
   Clamp the material securely to prevent movement during drilling and tapping.
3. Create a Divot
   Use a center punch to make a small indentation where you plan to drill. This helps the drill bit grip and penetrate the surface more effectively.

Drilling the Hole

4. Drill the Pilot Hole
   Select the correct drill size for the tap and drill the hole. Ensure the hole is straight and clean.
5. Chamfer the Hole
   Add a lead-in chamfer to guide the tap into place, ensuring accurate and clean threads.

Tapping the Hole

6. Lubricate
   Apply a suitable cutting fluid to both the tap and the hole. This reduces friction and prevents overheating, extending the life of your tap.
7. Align the Tap
   Fit the tap into a T-handle or tap wrench. Align the tap straight with the hole to avoid misalignment.
8. Threading
   Turn the tap clockwise using smooth, steady rotations. Do not apply excessive pressure; let the tap cut the threads.
9. Reverse Regularly
   Periodically reverse the tap to break the swarf into manageable pieces and clear the hole of chips.

Finishing Up

10. Clean the Threads
    After threading, clean out any remaining cuttings and debris from the hole.
11. Inspect
    Check the threads for consistency and ensure they are even and properly formed.

Additional Tips

• Use Sharp Taps: Always use sharp, high-quality HSS taps from a trusted manufacturer such as Alpha.
• Replace Dull Taps: Dull taps can cause excessive wear and breakage.
• Maintain Straight Threads: Use guides like drill presses or tap followers to keep threads straight, especially in thicker materials.

Following these best practices will help you achieve precise and reliable threading with HSS hand taps. If you have any specific questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask!