We've been tapping threads by hand for years. All it takes is patience
to ensure that the tap starts out vertical. Start the tap into the
proper size pilot hole and then view it from all angles to make sure it
is perpendicular to the surface. Take another turn, back it off to
break the chip and check alignment again. At that point, the tap does
all the work and the drill hole keeps it running straight.
If you're tapping soft metals like aluminum or brass with a small tap
(#4 or #6) be sure to go slow and back it out often to prevent material
from clogging the tap. If that happens, you'll twist it off in the hole
and curse the day you ever saw a tap. In general, if you ever feel too
much pressure with a tap, back it out and then proceed. And remember,
if the hole has a bottom the tap will eventually find it and you won't
be able to apply more pressure to get past it :-)
Always use plenty of oil when tapping to keep the tap cool while cutting.
Frank P.
On 3/1/2011 6:19 AM, Thomas Lum wrote:
In an effort not to buy a lathe, I was wondering if anyone had
experience with either the stand alone hand tapping machines or using a
drill press (not powered) to tap threads? Wondering what I need to keep
the tap perfectly vertical when tapping bar stock or round stock.
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