3 Reasons You Would Need a Tap Drill Size Calculator

Whether you are working on a prototype, a DIY project, or a series of manufactured parts and equipment, you want to ensure that the fit of your bolts and machine screws is tight and secure every time. When tapping holes, there are many things to keep in mind so that you can manage costs while prioritizing efficiency. Not only do your tools and machinery need to be in top condition to produce consistent and precise results, but you also have to use accurate measurements for your drill size that take into consideration the threads per inch and the thread height. Here are three reasons why you should consider using a tap drill size calculator to get accurate recommendations for tapping.

Cutting Tap Parameters

Traditional tap drill size charts make recommendations based on the idea that 75% thread is sufficient for all projects. As research has progressed in this area, you can get better results, save on costs, and extend the lifetime use of your tap drill parts by using a calculator instead of a chart. The calculator tool takes into account the use of different types of tap drills.

With cutting taps, our experts at Kennametal recommend 68-70% thread height for optimal results. When you use the optimal size of a tap drill, you prevent unnecessary threading and reduce the potential for mistakes. As tap drills are under pressure, they can become brittle and break if not given proper care, but cutting taps are still a valuable and economically friendly tap to have in your production house.

Forming Tap Parameters

In the metalworking industry, thread forming taps, also called rolling taps, are gaining more traction, particularly because they offer tighter and stronger threading and work very well for small threads. With this innovation, you need to ensure that you get the correct size recommendation for your tap drill when using a forming tap. Cutting taps and forming taps have unique requirements because they function differently. In fact, thread forming taps generally require a slightly larger tap drill size. This is why it is important to utilize a calculator to get specific size recommendations.

Major Diameter For Tap Drill Size

Finally, our Kennametal tap drill size calculator can assist you in finding the major diameter of the tap drill you need based on the type of machine screw you plan to use. This is another vital aspect of using a calculating tool, because you will receive the most accurate result based on our expertise and industry standards.

Using a calculator to find the right tap drill size will help you maximize your budget without sacrificing quality and performance. By choosing the right equipment and investing in high-performance tools such as forming taps and carbide turning inserts, you can maintain a competitive edge in your industry.

At Kennametal, our experts are ready to answer all of your questions about metalworking. Chat with our team and use our tool guides and charts to get the professional perspective you deserve.

This article does not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors or management of EconoTimes