I'm back!- with machining abilities

[saefroch]

Hello all! It's been a long long time since I posted here or did much spudding-related. I'm now in college, and have access to a pretty well-equipped machine shop. Mostly I see myself using the end mill (+/- 0.001" in x and y, +/- 0.005 in z) or lathe (+/-0.0005").

Of course, this means I'll be picking up work on what I still have indicated as my current project in my sig. I'm now considering making a new valve body or cross fitting from scratch, but I'm a little unsure (a question for you machinist types out there) exactly how to turn female pipe thread. I could of course just make my own tool, but I'd be more comfortable if it can be done using fairly standard lathe tools.

[velocity3x]

Lathe....Internal thread bar.
Mill.....Thread mill.
Last resort....Pipe tap.

[saefroch]

Internal thread bar. Thanks!

I don't think I'll be using a pipe tap, I sorta doubt the shop has pipe taps.

[Technician1002]

A lathe can be difficult to use to thread pipe threads due to the taper so parts tighten as they come together to seal. Machine threads is commonly done on a lathe. My advise, use the correct tool, a pipe tap.
http://www.engineeringtoolbox.com/npt-n ... d_750.html

[saefroch]

What does the "Tap Drill" column in that chart indicate?
I love that site btw

[jackssmirkingrevenge]

What does the "Tap Drill" column in that chart indicate?
I love that site btw

The size of the hole you have to make before tapping the thread.

[saefroch]

Ohhhh thanks.

Message too short.

[velocity3x]

Machine threads is commonly done on a lathe.

If he has access to a CNC lathe, pipe thread is extremely easy.

[saefroch]

It's not a CNC lathe, oh how I wish it were.

I'm going to stop by the shop tomorrow (today, actually it's past midnight) and try to consult with the resident machinist.