Balax 13668-010 Thread Forming Tap 3/8-24 Unf Bottoming

Product Description

The BALAX 13668-010 is a thread forming tap designed for cold-forming internal threads in ductile metals without cutting. Manufactured from high-speed steel (HSS) with a bright uncoated finish, it produces 3/8-24 UNF threads to a 2B class of fit with an H8 thread limit. The bottoming chamfer - 1.5 threads of lead - allows threading to the bottom of blind holes. Overall length is 2.9375 inches with a thread length of 0.95 inches and a tapping depth of 1.25 inches. Licensed machinists, maintenance mechanics, and tool-and-die professionals use this tap where chip-free thread forming is preferred over cutting taps.

This tap is suited for blind hole threading operations in production and maintenance environments. The 3/8-24 UNF fine thread pitch is common in aerospace hardware, hydraulic fittings, firearm components, and precision mechanical assemblies where high thread engagement and resistance to vibration loosening are required. The BXOTL series is built for use in CNC machining centers, drill presses, and tapping machines running appropriate tapping fluid or cutting oil for the workpiece material.

Key Features

• Bottoming chamfer with 1.5P lead for threading close to the bottom of blind holes
• Thread forming design displaces material rather than cutting, producing stronger threads with no chips
• High-speed steel construction for durability across a range of ductile workpiece materials
• H8 thread limit for consistent 2B class of fit across production runs
• Single oil groove for lubrication during the forming process
• Right-hand thread direction, 3/8-24 UNF pitch

Compatibility

Designed for blind hole thread forming applications requiring 3/8-24 UNF right-hand threads at a 2B class of fit in ductile metals. Verify workpiece material suitability before use, as thread forming taps require sufficient material ductility.

Installation Notes

Thread forming taps require a properly sized forming tap drill - consult a thread forming drill chart for the correct hole diameter, as it differs from a cutting tap drill size for the same thread. Apply an appropriate tapping fluid or cutting oil rated for the workpiece material before driving the tap. Use a torque-controlled tapping head or CNC rigid tapping cycle to avoid overdriving in blind holes. Ensure the spindle and tap are aligned square to the workpiece surface before starting.