Difference between revisions of "Tapping"

Revision as of 22:02, 1 November 2005

A set of pipe taps

Tapping is the process of cutting threads on the inside diameter of a hole with a tool called a tap. It is used to thread holes for mounting:

There are a few diffent thread systems that are used in spudgun construction

Mark and drill an appropriatly sized hole
- The hole should be in an area where fittings or pipe overlap (double thickness)
- Find correct hole size with a Tap/Drill Chart
Insert the tap into the tap wrench
- If you don't have a tap wrench, a normal crescent wrench can be used
Cut the threads
- Be careful to keep the tap straight or you will end up with crooked threads
- If cutting anything other than plastic, use a cutting fluid to lubricate the tool
- Apply downward pressure while slowly turning the tap clockwise 180 degrees, then back out 90 degrees counterclockwise to clear the chips
- For tapered threads, stop as soon as the entire length of the hole is threaded

@@ Line 25: / Line 25: @@
 #*Be careful to keep the tap straight or you will end up with crooked threads
 #*If cutting anything other than plastic, use a cutting fluid to lubricate the tool
-#*Apply downward pressure while slowly turning the tap clockwise 180 degrees, then back out 90 degrees counterclockwise to clear some shavings.
+#*Apply downward pressure while slowly turning the tap clockwise 180 degrees, then back out 90 degrees counterclockwise to clear the chips
 #*For tapered threads, stop as soon as the entire length of the hole is threaded
 [[Category:Construction methods]]