Thread forming taps do not cut threads; rather, they form threads by displacing material. They generate threads without producing chips. They are used on mild steels, carbon steels and low to medium alloys.
Thread limit refers to a standard notation indicating a level of tolerance for the thread outside the basic thread size of the tap. The limits are identified by a letter "H" for inch or a "D" for metric, followed by a number.
Chamfer
Chamfer refers to the length of the tapering threads at the front of the tap. Both the chamfered portion of the tap and the first full thread beyond the chamfer produce the finished thread of the part.
Modified bottoming chamfers are similar to bottoming chamfers, but they are longer and have more teeth. They are used for threading to the bottom of blind holes and have 2 to 2-1/2 threads.
Bal-Plus(TM) is a thin, gold-colored coating that provides resistance to galling. It is commonly used on aluminum and non-ferrous metals. Bal-Plus(TM) is a proprietary coating exclusive to Balax, Inc.
Diamond-like carbon (DLC) is an extremely hard and durable coating that is similar to diamond. It is commonly used on stainless steel, ceramics, plastics and aluminum alloys.
Oxide is a coating that prevents chip building, galling and welding on the workpiece. It is commonly used on low carbons, stainless steel and ferrous metals.
TiAlN/TiN is a multi-layer coating that combines the high-hardness of TiN and the heat-resistance of TiAlN. It is commonly used on softer materials in general purpose applications.
Titanium nitride (TiN) is a multi-purpose coating which increases chip flow in softer materials. The heat and hardness resistance allows the tool to run at higher speeds than uncoated tools.
Cobalt vanadium high speed steel combines the properties of cobalt and vanadium high speed steel for better wear and toughness. It is commonly used in general applications on stainless steels, high silicon aluminums and difficult-to-machine materials.
Powdered metal high speed steel is durable and wear-resistant material used in general purpose applications. It is commonly used on low carbon alloys and mild steels.
Solid carbide provides better rigidity than high speed steel. It is extremely heat-resistant and used for high-speed applications on cast iron, non-ferrous materials, plastics and other tough-to-machine materials.
Vanadium high speed steel (HSSE) is made of high speed steel, carbon, vanadium carbide and other alloys to increase abrasive wear resistance and toughness. It is commonly used in general applications on stainless steels and high silicon aluminums.