Balax 13446-010 Thread Forming Tap 3/8-16 Unc Bottoming Hss

Product Description

The BALAX 13446-010 is a thread forming tap designed for producing 3/8-16 UNC internal threads in blind hole applications. Unlike cutting taps, thread forming taps displace material rather than cutting it, resulting in stronger threads with no chips to clear. This tap is built from high-speed steel with a bright uncoated finish and carries a 3B class of fit with an H6 thread limit. It is used by machinists, tool and die workers, and maintenance professionals in production and repair environments where clean, chip-free threading is required in ductile metals.

This tap is intended for blind hole threading in materials that flow well under cold forming conditions, including low-carbon steel, aluminum, brass, and similar ductile alloys. The bottoming chamfer style allows threading close to the bottom of a blind hole, making it well suited to tight-tolerance assemblies where maximum thread engagement depth is needed. The BXB series designation indicates a standard bottoming geometry from BALAX. A single oil groove supports lubrication during the forming process, which is essential for tool life and thread quality in production tapping operations.

Key Features

• Thread forming design produces no chips, eliminating chip-packing risk in blind holes
• Bottoming chamfer with 2.5 chamfered threads for threading close to hole bottom
• High-speed steel construction for durability across a range of ductile workpiece materials
• H6 thread limit for consistent 3B class of fit tolerances
• Single oil groove aids lubrication and reduces forming torque
• Right-hand thread direction, suitable for standard tapping equipment and tap handles

Compatibility

Designed as an OEM-style replacement or direct-use thread forming tap for 3/8-16 UNC blind hole threading applications in standard tapping chucks, holders, and reversing tap heads that accept a 0.381-inch shank diameter with a 0.286-inch square drive.

Installation Notes

Thread forming taps require proper lubrication at all times - use a tapping fluid rated for the workpiece material. Ensure the pilot hole diameter is sized correctly for thread forming, as the required drill size is larger than for a cutting tap of the same thread designation. This tap should be installed and operated by qualified machinists or maintenance technicians familiar with tapping torque requirements and spindle speed settings for the workpiece material. Never use a thread forming tap in cast iron, hardened steel, or other non-ductile materials, as these do not flow and will fracture the tap.