Balax 30056-000 Spiral Point Tap 8-32 Unc 3 Flutes

Product Description

The BALAX 30056-000 is a spiral point plug tap designed for threading operations in a wide range of metallic workpiece materials. Built from M42 powdered metal high-speed steel (HSS) with a bright uncoated finish, this tap cuts a right-hand 8-32 UNC thread profile across 3 flutes. The plug chamfer distributes cutting load across several leading threads, making it well suited for through-hole tapping applications. With a thread length of 0.5 inches and a shank diameter of 0.168 inches, it fits standard tap holders used on drill presses, CNC machining centers, and manual tapping equipment. Machinists, tool-and-die workers, and maintenance technicians in fabrication and production environments are the primary users.

This tap is intended for through-hole tapping in both light and ferrous metals. It performs across a broad material range including aluminum, brass, bronze, copper, magnesium, wrought aluminum alloy, zinc, carbon steel, and stainless steel. The spiral point geometry pushes chips forward ahead of the cutting action, keeping the flutes clear during machine tapping cycles. It is appropriate for production volumes where consistent thread quality and reliable chip evacuation are priorities. Coolant-through capability is not included on this model, so conventional flood or mist coolant delivery is used as needed.

Key Features

• 8-32 UNC right-hand thread form, H6 thread limit for consistent fit tolerance
• M42 powdered metal HSS construction for improved wear resistance versus standard HSS
• 3-flute spiral point geometry pushes chips forward for efficient through-hole tapping
• Plug chamfer distributes cutting forces across multiple lead threads
• Bright uncoated finish compatible with a wide range of cutting fluids
• Rated for aluminum, brass, bronze, copper, carbon steel, stainless steel, magnesium, and zinc

Compatibility

Designed for through-hole tapping applications requiring an 8-32 UNC thread in the material types listed; part of the BALAX BX100 series.

Installation Notes

Installation is performed by qualified machinists or maintenance technicians using a calibrated tap holder or tapping head. Ensure the workpiece is securely clamped and the spindle is properly aligned before beginning the tapping cycle to avoid tap breakage. Apply appropriate cutting fluid for the workpiece material, particularly when working with stainless steel or carbon steel. Follow shop-standard speeds and feeds for M42 HSS spiral point taps at this thread size.