Balax 11970-010 Thread Forming Tap 10-24 Unc Bottoming Hss

Product Description

The BALAX 11970-010 is a bottoming-chamfer thread forming tap designed for cutting 10-24 UNC right-hand threads in blind holes. Unlike cutting taps, thread forming taps displace material rather than remove it, producing stronger threads with no chips to clear from the hole. Made from high-speed steel with a bright uncoated finish, this tap carries a H10 thread limit and belongs to the BXB series. The bottoming chamfer - 2.5 threads - allows threading to the bottom of shallow blind holes where a taper or plug tap cannot reach. A licensed machinist, toolroom technician, or maintenance mechanic installs this tap in metalworking and mechanical assembly operations.

This tap is suited for blind-hole threading applications in ductile metals where thread forming is preferred over thread cutting. The 10-24 UNC designation makes it a common choice for fastener tapping in HVAC equipment panels, electrical enclosures, and light structural assemblies. With a tapping depth of 0.875 inches and a thread length of 0.6 inches, it handles typical shallow-to-medium blind hole requirements. One oil groove assists lubrication during the forming process. This tap is sized for use in standard 10-24 tapping fixtures or hand tap handles with appropriate square-drive collets.

Key Features

• Bottoming chamfer with 2.5 chamfered threads for threading to the base of blind holes
• Thread forming design displaces material - no chips generated, stronger thread form
• High-speed steel construction for durability across a range of ductile workpiece materials
• H10 thread limit for controlled fit tolerance in 10-24 UNC threaded holes
• 0.875-inch tapping depth handles typical blind-hole fastener applications
• Single oil groove aids lubrication and reduces forming torque during use

Compatibility

Designed as an OEM-style replacement or direct-use thread forming tap for 10-24 UNC blind-hole threading applications in standard tapping equipment accepting a 0.194-inch shank diameter with a 0.152-inch square drive.

Installation Notes

Thread forming taps require a properly sized forming tap drill hole - use the correct tap drill size for 10-24 UNC thread forming, which differs from a standard cutting tap drill size. Apply cutting or tapping oil before and during use to reduce forming torque and extend tap life. Secure the workpiece fully before tapping, and align the tap perpendicular to the hole surface to avoid tap breakage. This work is typically performed by a machinist, maintenance technician, or assembly mechanic using a tap handle, drill press, or CNC tapping fixture.