Difference between revisions of "Tapping"

(The process)
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#Mark and drill an appropriatly sized hole
 
#Mark and drill an appropriatly sized hole
#*The hole should be in an area where fittings or pipe overlap (double thickness)
+
#*The hole should be in an area where fittings or pipe overlap (double thickness)[[Image:ReltonRapidTap.gif|right|thumb|250ps|A set of pipe taps]]
 
#*Find correct hole size with a [http://www.engineersedge.com/tap_drill_chart.htm Tap/Drill Chart]
 
#*Find correct hole size with a [http://www.engineersedge.com/tap_drill_chart.htm Tap/Drill Chart]
 
#Insert the tap into the tap wrench
 
#Insert the tap into the tap wrench

Revision as of 21:44, 18 April 2006

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:

Types of threads

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

  • NPT (National Pipe Taper)
  • BSP (British Standard Pipe)
  • NF (National Fine)
  • NC (National Course)

The process

  1. Mark and drill an appropriatly sized hole
    • The hole should be in an area where fittings or pipe overlap (double thickness)
      A set of pipe taps
    • Find correct hole size with a Tap/Drill Chart
  2. Insert the tap into the tap wrench
    • If you don't have a tap wrench, a normal crescent wrench can be used
  3. Cut the threads
    • Be careful to keep the tap straight or you will end up with crooked threads
    • When tapping plastic (or any other material) be sure to use an appropriate cutting fluid such as RapidTap®
    • 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