différents tarauds

Different Thread Taps: An Essential Guide to Cutting Tools

In the world of manufacturing, thread taps play a crucial role in creating threaded holes for fasteners. These cutting tools are essential for forming internal threads in materials such as metal, plastic, and wood. However, not all thread taps are created equal. Various factors, including the type of material, desired thread size and pitch, and specific applications, determine which type of tap is the most suitable choice. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore different thread taps and their applications, helping you make informed decisions for your threading needs.

1. Tarauds à flûte droite
Straight flute taps, also known as hand taps, are among the most commonly used thread taps. They have a simple design, with straight flutes running parallel to the tap’s axis. These taps are ideal for general-purpose threading and can be used with both through and blind holes. Moreover, their design allows for easy chip evacuation, reducing the risk of jamming.

2. Tarauds à pointe en spirale
Spiral point taps, often referred to as “gun” taps, feature a spiral flute and a pointed end. Unlike straight flute taps, these tools are specifically designed for through-hole tapping, where the threads pass through the entire workpiece. As the tap advances into the hole, the spiral point pushes the chips forward, promoting efficient chip evacuation. Spiral point taps are commonly used in high-volume production settings, as they provide faster tapping and improved tool life.

3. Tarauds à flûte hélicoïdale
If you encounter materials that are prone to chip buildup or have poor chip evacuation characteristics, spiral flute taps might just be the answer. These taps have a spiral configuration wrapping around the tap body and a relatively narrow cutting edge. This design promotes efficient chip flow out of the hole during tapping, minimizing the risk of chip entanglement. Spiral flute taps are an excellent choice for both through and blind hole applications in materials like stainless steel or cast iron.

4. Robinets de tuyauterie
Pipe taps are designed specifically for threading pipes and fittings. They come in two types: taper pipe taps and straight pipe taps. Taper pipe taps have a more gradual taper to facilitate alignment and starting in the workpiece, while straight pipe taps have a constant diameter. These taps feature wider and deeper flutes to accommodate the thicker pipe and allow for proper chip evacuation. When working with pipes, it is crucial to select the appropriate pipe tap for a tight and leak-proof fit.

5. Interrupted Thread Taps
In certain applications, interrupted threads are desirable for a variety of reasons, including enhanced tensile strength or improved resistance to vibration. Interrupted thread taps are specifically designed to create these unique threads. They consist of alternating flutes and lands, allowing for interrupted cutting and the formation of non-continuous threads. These taps are commonly used in industries such as automotive, aerospace, and heavy machinery, where thread strength and reliability are paramount.

6. Thread Forming Taps
Unlike the previously mentioned taps, thread forming taps rely on cold deformation to form threads in the workpiece material rather than cutting it. These taps have a unique geometry, with closely spaced flutes and rounded crests. They are often utilized in softer materials such as aluminum or plastic, where cutting threads may result in material damage. Thread forming taps provide excellent thread quality, enhanced surface finish, and improved resistance to stripping.

7. Thread Cutting Dies
While not strictly thread taps, thread cutting dies are worth mentioning in any discussion about cutting tools. Dies are used for creating external threads on cylindrical workpieces, such as rods or bolts. They come in various designs, including round, hexagonal, or adjustable split dies. Dies are typically used in conjunction with a die handle to manually cut threads on the workpiece. These cutting tools are essential for applications where pre-threaded fasteners are not readily available.

In conclusion, selecting the right thread tap is crucial for successful threading operations. Each type of tap offers distinct advantages for specific applications, materials, and thread requirements. Straight flute taps are versatile and suitable for general-purpose threading, while spiral point taps excel in through-hole applications. Spiral flute taps are ideal for materials prone to chip buildup, pipe taps are specifically designed for pipes, and interrupted thread taps are used for enhanced thread strength. Thread forming taps offer an alternative to cutting threads, while thread cutting dies are essential for external thread creation. By understanding the differences and applications of these thread taps, you can optimize your threading processes and achieve superior results.