Balax 10004-010 Thread Forming Tap 0-80 Unf Bottoming Hss

Product Description

The BALAX 10004-010 is a thread forming tap designed for cutting 0-80 UNF internal threads in blind hole applications. Unlike cutting taps, thread forming taps displace material rather than cut chips, producing stronger threads with no swarf to clear. This tap is built from high-speed steel with a bright uncoated finish and carries a bottoming chamfer of 2.5 threads, allowing threads to be formed close to the bottom of a blind hole. It is sized for the smallest standard unified fine thread and is used by machinists, tool-and-die makers, and precision assembly technicians working with miniature fasteners in tight-tolerance components.

This tap is suited for threading blind holes in ductile metals and soft alloys where material flow is achievable. The bottoming chamfer design makes it appropriate as a finishing tap following a plug or taper tap when full thread depth near the bottom of a blind hole is required. At 0-80 UNF, it is commonly used in instrument manufacturing, electronics assembly, optical equipment, and other applications involving miniature threaded fasteners. Right-hand thread direction is standard. The BXB series designation indicates this is a BALAX thread forming product line tap.

Key Features

• Bottoming chamfer with 2.5 chamfered threads for threading close to the base of blind holes
• Thread forming design displaces material for stronger threads and eliminates chip removal concerns
• High-speed steel construction provides durability across a range of ductile workpiece materials
• Bright uncoated finish suitable for use with appropriate tapping fluids
• H4 thread limit for controlled tolerance fit
• Right-hand thread direction, 0-80 UNF specification

Compatibility

Designed for forming 0-80 UNF right-hand internal threads in blind holes in ductile metals. Thread forming is not suitable for brittle materials such as cast iron or hardened steel.

Installation Notes

Thread forming taps require a specific drill size matched to the material being tapped - consult a thread forming drill chart for the correct forming hole diameter, as it differs from a cutting tap pilot hole. Use a quality tapping fluid appropriate for the workpiece material to reduce forming torque and extend tap life. Secure the workpiece firmly and advance the tap with steady, consistent pressure using a calibrated tap wrench or tapping head. Inspect the tap for wear or deformation before each use, especially at this fine pitch and small diameter where breakage risk increases with misalignment.