Balax 13532-91C Thread Forming Tap 3/8-16 Unc Bottoming Ticn

Product Description

The BALAX 13532-91C is a bottoming-style thread forming tap designed for 3/8-16 UNC threads in steel workpieces. Unlike cutting taps, thread forming taps displace material rather than remove it, producing stronger threads with no chips to clear. This tap is manufactured from powdered metal high-speed steel (PM-HSS) and finished with a titanium carbonitride (TiCN) coating for improved wear resistance and tool life. It carries a 2B class of fit and an H9 thread limit, making it suitable for standard commercial tolerances. Machinists and tool-and-die professionals use this tap in production and maintenance environments where blind hole threading is required.

This tap is designed for blind hole threading applications in steel materials. The bottoming chamfer - with 2.5 chamfered threads - allows thread forming to extend close to the bottom of a blind hole, maximizing usable thread depth. With a tapping depth of 1.25 inches and a thread length of 0.95 inches, it is well suited for applications where shallow hole depths demand full thread engagement near the base. It belongs to the BXSTEEL series, which is configured specifically for steel material applications.

Key Features

• Thread forming (chipless) design produces stronger threads and eliminates chip management in blind holes
• TiCN coating increases surface hardness and reduces friction for extended tool life
• Powdered metal high-speed steel construction offers consistent grain structure and toughness
• Bottoming chamfer (2.5P) allows threading close to the bottom of a blind hole
• H9 thread limit and 2B class of fit for standard commercial thread tolerances
• Right-hand thread direction, single oil groove for lubrication

Compatibility

Designed as an OEM-style replacement or direct-use thread forming tap for 3/8-16 UNC blind hole applications in steel, as part of the BALAX BXSTEEL series.

Installation Notes

Thread forming taps require a specific tap drill size larger than that used for cutting taps - consult a thread forming tap drill chart for the correct pre-drill diameter before use. Apply appropriate tapping fluid or cutting oil rated for steel to the tap and workpiece before and during the operation. Ensure the tap is properly aligned with the hole axis to avoid tap breakage or off-axis threads. This tool should be used by qualified machinists or maintenance technicians familiar with thread forming processes and proper machine or hand-tapping technique.