Difference between revisions of "Tapping"

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#*If cutting anything other than plastic, use a cutting fluid to lubricate the tool
 
#*If cutting anything other than plastic, use a cutting fluid to lubricate the tool
 
#*Apply downward pressure while slowly turning the tap clockwise
 
#*Apply downward pressure while slowly turning the tap clockwise
#*For tapered threads, stop as soon as the entire lenght of the hole is threaded
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#*For tapered threads, stop as soon as the entire length of the hole is threaded

Revision as of 23:26, 24 October 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:

Types of threads

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

  • NPT (National Pipe Taper)
  • BSP
  • 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)
    • 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
    • If cutting anything other than plastic, use a cutting fluid to lubricate the tool
    • Apply downward pressure while slowly turning the tap clockwise
    • For tapered threads, stop as soon as the entire length of the hole is threaded