Balax 18680-91L Thread Forming Tap M8x1.25 Bottoming 6H

Product Description

The BALAX 18680-91L is a bottoming-style thread forming tap designed for creating M8x1.25 metric coarse internal threads in blind holes. It is manufactured from powdered metal high-speed steel and finished with a Bal-Plus coating for extended tool life in demanding production environments. With a 6H class of fit and D10 thread limit, this tap produces accurate, consistent threads suited to tight-tolerance assemblies. The overall length is 2.719 inches with a thread length of 0.880 inches and a tapping depth of 1.125 inches. Licensed machinists, toolroom operators, and production technicians working in die casting shops are the primary installers of this tool.

This tap is specifically engineered for blind hole threading in die cast aluminum components, reflecting its BXDIECAST series designation. The thread forming process displaces material rather than cutting it, which eliminates chips in the hole and produces a stronger, work-hardened thread form. It is well suited to high-volume production cells where chip management in blind bores presents a reliability problem. The 2.5-thread chamfer length (bottoming style) allows threading close to the bottom of a blind hole, making it a practical choice for parts with limited thread engagement depth.

Key Features

• Bottoming chamfer with 2.5 thread lead for threading near the base of blind holes
• Powdered metal high-speed steel construction for improved wear resistance over conventional HSS
• Bal-Plus coating reduces friction and extends tap life in non-ferrous materials
• Thread forming design eliminates chips, reducing tap breakage risk in blind bore applications
• 6H class of fit with D10 thread limit for precise metric thread tolerance control
• Single oil groove supports lubrication flow during the forming process

Compatibility

Designed for blind hole thread forming in die cast aluminum workpieces as part of the BXDIECAST series. Suitable for use in M8x1.25 metric coarse right-hand thread applications requiring a 6H fit.

Installation Notes

This tap is intended for use by machinists and toolroom professionals operating drill presses, CNC machining centers, or tapping machines. Ensure the spindle is fully stopped and the workpiece is securely fixtured before tool changes. Use a cutting or forming fluid appropriate for aluminum to prevent galling and extend tool life. Follow applicable shop safety procedures and manufacturer feed rate recommendations for thread forming taps in non-ferrous materials.