Balax 14082-90U Thread Forming Tap 1/2-13 Unc Bottoming Tin

Product Description

The BALAX 14082-90U is a bottoming thread forming tap designed for producing 1/2-13 UNC internal threads in stainless steel workpieces. Unlike cutting taps, thread forming taps cold-form the thread profile without producing chips, which reduces the risk of chip packing in blind holes. The tap is manufactured from powdered metal high-speed steel (PM-HSS) for enhanced wear resistance and toughness, and is finished with a Super Titanium Nitride (TiN) coating to further extend tool life and reduce friction in demanding materials. Licensed machinists and toolroom technicians install this tap in CNC machining centers, manual lathes, and drill presses where precision blind-hole threading is required.

This tap is specifically designed for blind hole threading applications in stainless steel, including austenitic grades that work-harden rapidly during machining. The 2B class of fit and H9 thread limit make it suitable for standard commercial thread tolerances in production and job-shop environments. The bottoming chamfer, with 2.5 chamfered threads, allows threading close to the bottom of a blind hole where a plug or taper chamfer cannot reach. The BXSTAINLESS series designation indicates the tap geometry is optimized for the ductile, gummy characteristics of stainless steel alloys.

Key Features

• Bottoming chamfer with 2.5 chamfered threads for threading close to the bottom of blind holes
• Powdered metal high-speed steel construction for superior wear resistance and toughness versus conventional HSS
• Super Titanium Nitride coating reduces friction and extends tool life in stainless steel
• Chipless thread forming process eliminates chip evacuation concerns in blind holes
• H9 thread limit ensures consistent 2B class of fit across production runs
• Single oil groove aids lubricant delivery during the forming process

Compatibility

Designed for blind hole threading in stainless steel materials. Produces 1/2-13 UNC threads to a 2B class of fit with an H9 thread limit. Right-hand thread direction only.

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 hole diameter before use. Secure the workpiece and use a rigid tapping setup or tapping head to maintain proper alignment and prevent tap breakage. Apply a high-quality tapping fluid or cutting oil rated for stainless steel throughout the operation. Power down and de-energize all machine tools before mounting or removing the tap from the holder.