I don't use a petroleum lube when tapping aluminum, as it tends to make
the tap seize in the material.
Either use a product called "Alumitap" (a bit pricey) or just use a
solution of 75% water and 25% liquid dish detergent.
Makes for very smooth tapping.
Lee
On 3/1/2011 08:34 AM, Frank Pittelli wrote:
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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