Selection for Machining Threads and Machine Taps
In industrial production and manufacturing, machine taps are preferred over hand taps because they offer higher efficiency and lower production costs. However, good machine tapping is not the only thing that matters in the machine tapping process. The whole process needs to be precise.
In this article, we want to take a closer look at machine thread cutting. Why use machine taps instead of manual taps in the first place? What advantages do they bring? What else needs to be considered when using them?
Selection of drilling machines
The first criterion for selection concerns the equipment for the drilling machine. Machine threading should not lack this equipment.
Machine taps can be clamped on a variety of machines. Among others, in CNC machines, tapping machines, pneumatic tapping arms, cordless electric drills, etc. It is necessary to check individually which machine is suitable for your production.
Selection of machine taps
Choosing the right machine taps is critical. There is no universal application for almost all materials. However, due to their specific geometry, there are universal machine taps suitable for machining a wide range of materials. In general, however, it all depends on the individual needs and requirements of the project.
GSR Silver machine taps are suitable for a wide range of materials. If you need personal advice, please contact us by email and we will be happy to help you!
45pcs. tap and die set for metric and inch size, alloy steel
Coolant and lubricant
The choice of cutting fluid when tapping is mainly based on the material to be machined. Especially when tapping with a machine tap, care must be taken to ensure adequate cooling and lubrication to prevent tool breakage.
For metallic materials, emulsions (emulsions are 1:10 to 1:15 solutions of drilling oil in water) are usually used; for plastics, emulsified oils or vulcanized cutting oils can usually be used. If the surface roughness value of the threaded hole on the workpiece is low, environmentally friendly thread cutting agents and thread pastes can be used.
Cutting speed
Cutting speed should be selected roughly as follows.
up to approx. 700 N/mm² for good cutting steel - 10 to 15 m/min
Good machinable steels up to approx. 900 N/mm² - 5 to 10 m/min
Heat-treated and heat-resistant steels up to 1100 N/mm² - 4 to 6 m/min
Stainless steels 5 to 10 m/min
Tool steel High strength steel approx. 1100 N/mm² - 2 to 5 m/min
The indicated cutting speeds are guide values and must be adapted to the working conditions.
When using machine taps and machine tapping, it is not only the tap itself that is important. Instead, attention must also be paid to the choice of material, drill and lubricant in order to obtain a good cut. Do you have questions or need help choosing the right machine taps? We would be happy to advise you! Click on the button below to get a quote!