In-Die Tapping

Improved technology has made in-die tapping more feasible and reliable. This technology eliminates secondary operations and related costs, including tooling, labor, mounting, and handling. Features available include: the possibility to tap at high speeds (200 spm) simultaneously; several holes with different pitches either top to bottom or bottom to top; an optional safety mechanism, which protects against tap breakage, thus achieving longer tap life; components produced from quality hardened steels; and rotating parts mounted on bearings (ball, needle, and thrust). In addition, the technology of aluminum alloy die sets is coming forward, due to an increased demand for lighter dies, faster running production, and increased security. Aluminum alloys have been produced that permit die sets made with the strength of steels, but with other traits that surpass steel in certain mechanical properties. Either of these innovations offer business an attractive return on their investment.