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Selection for Machining Threads and Machine Taps

Mar. 04, 2022

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 for Machining Threads and Machine Taps


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!


Selection for Machining Threads and Machine Taps

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.


Selection for Machining Threads and Machine Taps

Thread Repair Set M6x1.0


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!


Selection for Machining Threads and Machine Taps