Tapping
Overview of Tapping
This method for creating screw holes involves using a tap (a tool with a spiral cutting edge) to form internal threads in a pre-drilled pilot hole. It allows for the rapid processing of numerous high-precision screw holes and is suitable for products requiring screw fastening.
The main actions of tapping
- Rotational motion
A tap rotates around its axis. This rotational motion causes the tap's cutting edge to cut or roll the material, forming a screw thread. - Sending motion
The tap moves axially while rotating. This feed motion continuously forms the screw threads. - Synchronized operation
The rotational motion and feed motion must be precisely synchronized to match the pitch of the screw being formed.
Yamaguchi Nut's Tapping Method
- Bent TapThis is a method primarily used for tapping short nut products. A workpiece is pushed into a constantly rotating bent tap (tool), and as the workpiece passes through the cutting edge at the tip of the bent tap, the threads are formed and discharged from the end of the bent tap. Its characteristic feature is its high productivity because the processing is done in one direction.
- Pitch feed typeThis is primarily a tapping method used for products with blind holes. Since using cutting taps carries the risk of chips remaining inside the hole, we use rolling taps, which do not generate chips, for blind hole tapping.
Tapping process
- Preparing the pilot hole The holes are pre-formed during the formering process.
- Tap selection Select a tap that is appropriate for the screw size, pitch, and material.
- Tap installation Attach the tap to the tapping machine.
- Use of processing oils Machining fluids are used to reduce friction and improve machining performance.
- Tapping work Insert the tap into the hole while rotating it to form the screw threads.
Advantages of tapping
- It allows for quick and efficient formation of female threads.
- It is highly versatile and can be used with a variety of materials.
- We offer both manual and automated options, allowing you to choose the best method based on your production scale. Our company uses the 100% automated system.
Points to note when tapping
thermal managementThe heat generated during machining affects the accuracy of the screw threads, so machining oil is used to properly control the temperature. This ensures the accuracy of the screw threads and extends the life of the tool.
Tap wear resistanceTapping often results in significant tool wear, so it is recommended to use taps with high wear resistance. This allows for stable machining over a long period of time.
Accuracy of pilot hole positionIf the position or angle of the pilot hole is off, the precision of the screw thread will decrease, affecting the quality of the product. Ensuring the correct position of the pilot hole improves the fastening force and stability of the screw.
Adjusting the cutting speedMachining at the appropriate cutting speed reduces tap wear and improves thread accuracy. Low-speed machining is especially desirable when working with hard materials.
Use of processing oils Use appropriate machining fluid to reduce friction and protect tools and materials. Machining fluid also improves the finish of the screw threads.
Tool selectionIt is important to select the appropriate tap (tap, cutting tap) for the material and type of screw. Proper tool selection improves machining efficiency and quality.
By following these precautions, you can improve the quality and production efficiency of tapping operations and maintain product reliability.