Machine taps

Discover our range of high-quality RUKO machine taps for the precise production of internal threads in metal. Machine taps are designed for use in machines and automated machining processes and enable efficient and precise thread production.

Depending on the machining task, machine taps vary in terms of thread type, tool geometry, tool material and coating. The key factors in selecting the right tool are the required thread, the material to be machined and the specific operating conditions.

A machine tap is designed for the machining of internal threads. Unlike multi-piece hand taps, the thread is cut in a single operation using just one tool.

Before threading, a pilot hole of the appropriate diameter is first drilled. The machine tap is then fed into the hole at a speed matched to the material, thread size and tool. The cutting edges create the desired thread, whilst the tool’s geometry ensures controlled chip formation and chip removal.

Machine taps are therefore particularly suitable for repetitive machining tasks and industrial manufacturing processes.

In our video, we show you step by step how machine cutting an internal thread works in practice.

The RUKO range includes machine taps for various thread types and machining tasks, as well as specialized tool solutions for specific thread-cutting requirements.

Thread types

Depending on the required thread standard, machine taps are available for, amongst others, standard metric M threads, fine metric MF threads, as well as UNC, UNF and PG threads.

When making a selection, particular attention should be paid to the thread type and diameter.

Special machine taps

In addition, the RUKO range includes special tool designs for selected applications. These include, for example, nut taps for producing internal threads in nuts and similar components.

Thread formers are also part of the range. Unlike cutting machine taps, they produce the internal thread without removing chips by forming the material.

Combi machine taps

Combi machine taps enable several machining steps to be carried out with a single tool. Core drilling, thread cutting and deburring can be carried out without changing tools.

You can find a detailed explanation of their applications in our How-To blog article on the ULTIMATECUT combi machine tap.

An important selection criterion for machine taps is whether a through-hole or blind-hole thread is to be cut. Depending on the tool geometry, the chips are removed in different ways during thread cutting.

Machine taps for through-holes

In a through-hole, the hole is open at both ends of the workpiece. For this application, machine taps are used whose geometry guides the chips out of the hole in the direction of feed.

For through-holes, RUKO offers, among other things, machine taps of type B with a straight flute. The geometry facilitates chip removal in the feed direction, thereby ensuring a consistent thread-cutting process.

Machine taps for blind holes

In a blind hole, the hole ends within the workpiece. Consequently, the chips cannot escape downwards from the hole but must be carried away towards the hole’s opening.

For these applications, RUKO offers, among other things, machine taps of Form C with a 35° right-hand helix. The helical flute facilitates chip removal from the blind hole and reduces the risk of chip jamming.

The type of thread, thread size, workpiece material, bore type and machining conditions are crucial when selecting a machine tap.

Tool material: HSS and HSS-Co 5

RUKO machine taps are made from HSS and HSS-Co 5.

HSS is suitable for numerous common thread-cutting applications. Thanks to the properties of high-speed steel, a variety of metallic materials can be machined. HSS taps are used specifically for structural steel.

HSS-Co 5 has a higher resistance to heat hardening due to its cobalt content, making it suitable for machining tasks where higher thermal stresses occur during the cutting process. HSS-Co taps are very well suited to cutting threads in stainless steel.

Coatings

Alongside the base material, coatings influence the friction and wear behaviour of a machine tap. As a general rule, coatings increase the service life of the machine tap. Depending on the version, the RUKO range includes, amongst others, uncoated, VAP-treated, as well as TiN-, TiCN- and TiAlN-coated machine taps are available.

Materials to be machined

Depending on the version, RUKO machine taps are suitable for various materials, including:

• Steel
• Stainless steel (HSS-Co 5)
• Aluminium
• Brass
• Bronze
• Other non-ferrous metals

Thread type and size

The machine tap must be precisely matched to the desired thread type and nominal diameter. These parameters determine the geometry of the resulting internal thread and must correspond to the intended screw connection.

Depending on the application, an external thread may also be required to provide a suitable mating connection. We demonstrate how to cut an external thread using a tap in our how-to blog article ‘How do I cut an external thread in 2 steps?’

In addition to selecting the appropriate machine tap, the diameter of the pilot hole, the cutting speed and the cooling also influence the quality of the thread and the tool’s service life.

The pilot hole must be matched to the thread type and size. Twist drills are used for this purpose.

The cutting speed depends, amongst other things, on the material, the tool design, the thread diameter and the machining conditions. This determines the appropriate cutting speed for the specific application. For specific values, please refer to the RUKO speed tables.

Coolants and lubricants reduce friction and heat build-up and help to ensure a controlled cutting process.

To ensure consistent thread quality, there are a few basic points to bear in mind when selecting tools and carrying out machining operations:

• Select machine taps suitable for the thread and material.
• Use the appropriate tool holder for the thread.
• Use the correct type for through holes or blind holes.
• Use coolants and lubricants.

Controlled machining reduces stress on the tool and the risk of tool breakage.