Taps
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About Taps
Threading taps are precision cutting tools designed to create internal screw threads in pre-drilled holes. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks an extensive range of taps from leading manufacturers including Dormer, DeWalt, Facom and Blue Spot, catering to both professional engineers and skilled DIY enthusiasts. Available in HSS (High Speed Steel) and premium HSS-E (High Speed Steel-Cobalt) materials, these taps deliver reliable performance across various metals and materials.
Our collection includes spiral point taps for through-holes, spiral flute taps for blind holes, and straight flute designs for general purpose applications. Whether you need metric coarse threads, metric fine threads, or specialist high-performance options, MyToolShed supplies individual taps and complete tap sets with complementary drill bits for convenient thread-cutting operations.
Applications
Threading taps are essential tools for numerous trades and industries:
- Engineering and Manufacturing: Creating threaded holes in machinery components, fixtures and fabricated assemblies
- Automotive Repair: Thread restoration and component repair on vehicles and motorcycles
- Plumbing and Heating: Threading pipework connections and mounting brackets
- General Maintenance: Repairing stripped threads in equipment across all industrial sectors
- Metal Fabrication: Producing threaded connections in steel, aluminium and other metals
- Electrical Installation: Securing electrical enclosures and cable management systems
- Construction: Creating threaded fixings in structural steelwork and metalwork
Choosing The Right Taps
Selecting appropriate taps depends on several key factors:
Thread Type and Size: Identify whether you require metric coarse (standard), metric fine, or specialist thread forms. Common sizes range from M3 to M12 for general applications, with the thread pitch specified for fine threads.
Material Grade: HSS taps suit softer materials and occasional use, whilst HSS-E (cobalt) taps offer superior heat resistance and extended tool life when working with harder metals or in production environments. Premium coatings like TiN (titanium nitride) further enhance performance.
Tap Design: Spiral point (gun nose) taps push chips forward, ideal for through-holes. Spiral flute taps evacuate chips backwards, essential for blind holes. Straight flute taps provide economical general-purpose threading.
Application Requirements: Consider whether you need individual taps or complete sets. Dormer's colour-coded "Shark" range offers easily identifiable performance grades for specific applications.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between taper, second and plug taps?
Traditional tap sets include three taps per size: taper (chamfered lead-in for starting threads), second (intermediate), and plug (minimal chamfer for threading to depth). Modern spiral point and spiral flute taps often combine these functions in a single tool.
What drill size do I need before tapping?
Each thread size requires a specific tapping drill size to leave adequate material for thread formation. MyToolShed.co.uk offers convenient tap and drill bit sets that include correctly matched drill sizes, eliminating guesswork and ensuring proper thread engagement.
Can I use taps with a power drill?
Hand tapping with a tap wrench provides better control and reduces breakage risk. However, spiral point taps can be used in drill presses or with tap adaptors at slow speeds. Some products like the DeWalt Impact Ready sets are specifically designed for powered application with appropriate adaptors.