Balax 11043-010 Thread Forming Tap 5-40 Unc Bottoming Hss

Product Description

The BALAX 11043-010 is a bottoming-chamfer thread forming tap designed for blind hole threading in the 5-40 UNC thread standard. Unlike cutting taps, thread forming taps displace material rather than cut it, producing stronger threads with no chips to clear. This tap is manufactured from high-speed steel with a bright uncoated finish and carries an H3 thread limit, making it suitable for close-tolerance work requiring a 3B class of fit. It is used by machinists and maintenance technicians across general manufacturing, electronics assembly, and precision fabrication where small-diameter internal threads are required.

This tap is suited for blind hole applications in softer metals and machinable plastics where chipless thread forming is preferred. The bottoming chamfer - approximately 2.5 threads - allows threading to be driven close to the bottom of a blind hole. With an overall length of 1.9375 inches and a thread length of 0.625 inches, the 11043-010 fits standard tap handles and machine tap holders used in bench or CNC tapping operations. It is a single-piece tap sold individually.

Key Features

• Thread forming design displaces material for stronger, chip-free internal threads
• Bottoming chamfer (2.5P) allows threading close to the bottom of blind holes
• H3 thread limit for consistent 3B class of fit tolerances
• High-speed steel construction provides good hardness and wear resistance
• Bright uncoated finish suitable for use with standard tapping fluids
• Right-hand thread direction, no coolant-through requirement

Compatibility

Designed as a direct-fit replacement or standard tap for 5-40 UNC blind hole threading applications. Fits tap handles and machine holders sized for a 0.141 inch shank diameter with a 0.110 inch square drive.

Installation Notes

This tap should be installed by a qualified machinist or maintenance technician familiar with thread forming operations. Ensure the workpiece is properly fixtured and the correct tap drill size for 5-40 UNC thread forming is used before tapping. Apply a suitable tapping fluid or cutting oil appropriate for the workpiece material. Thread forming taps require higher torque than cutting taps of the same size - use a calibrated tap handle or CNC tapping cycle with torque limiting to avoid tap breakage in small diameters.