Balax 11045-01T Thread Forming Tap 5-40 Unc Bottoming Hss Tin

Product Description

The BALAX 11045-01T is a bottoming-style thread forming tap designed for cutting 5-40 UNC internal threads in blind hole applications. Made from high-speed steel with a titanium nitride (TiN) coating, this tap cold-forms threads rather than cutting them, displacing material to produce stronger, chip-free threads. It carries a 2B class of fit and an H5 thread limit, making it suitable for precision threaded assemblies where consistent tolerance is required. With an overall length of 1.9375 inches and a thread length of 0.625 inches, it is sized for compact fastener applications typical in light mechanical and electrical assembly work.

This tap is intended for blind hole threading in soft to medium-hardness materials where thread forming is preferred over thread cutting. The bottoming chamfer with 2.5 chamfered threads allows the tap to thread close to the bottom of a blind hole, maximizing thread engagement in shallow or depth-restricted holes. It is commonly used by machinists, maintenance technicians, and trade professionals working on small-diameter fastener assemblies in HVAC equipment, electrical enclosures, and precision mechanical components.

Key Features

• Thread forming design produces chip-free threads in blind holes, reducing tap breakage risk
• TiN coating improves wear resistance and extends tool life in repetitive threading operations
• Bottoming chamfer with 2.5 chamfered threads allows threading close to the bottom of a blind hole
• H5 thread limit and 2B class of fit deliver consistent, precise thread tolerances
• Right-hand thread direction, 5-40 UNC specification for standard inch fastener compatibility
• No coolant-through requirement simplifies setup for manual and light CNC use

Compatibility

Designed as an OEM-style replacement or direct tooling selection for 5-40 UNC blind hole threading operations in materials suited to cold-form tapping, consistent with the BALAX BXB series of thread forming taps.

Installation Notes

Thread forming taps require a properly sized forming tap drill hole, which differs from standard cutting tap drill sizes - consult a thread forming tap drill chart before use. Apply a suitable tapping fluid or lubricant to the tap and workpiece before threading to reduce friction and extend tool life. Secure the workpiece firmly and use a calibrated tap wrench or tapping head to maintain axial alignment and avoid tap breakage. Do not use this tap as a thread cutting tap or in materials outside its rated hardness range.