Balax 30096-000 Spiral Point Tap 1/4-28 Unf 3 Flute

Product Description

The BALAX 30096-000 is a spiral point plug tap designed for right-hand threading in a wide range of metallic workpiece materials. Built from M42 grade powdered metal high-speed steel (HSS), this tap delivers consistent performance in through-hole tapping applications where chips are pushed forward ahead of the cutting action. It carries a bright, uncoated finish and is ground to an H6 thread limit for controlled fit accuracy. The 1/4-28 UNF thread form, 3-flute geometry, and plug chamfer make it a reliable production-floor tool for machinists and maintenance technicians working in light to medium material removal conditions.

This tap is suited for through-hole threading operations in ferrous and non-ferrous materials including aluminum, brass, bronze, carbon steel, copper, magnesium, stainless steel, wrought aluminum alloy, and zinc. The spiral point design is most effective in through-holes where chip evacuation ahead of the tap is possible. Typical applications include production machining, job-shop threading, and field maintenance work requiring a 1/4-28 UNF fastener thread. The BX100 series designation indicates standard tooling geometry for general-purpose threading.

Key Features

• M42 powdered metal HSS construction for extended tool life compared to standard HSS
• Spiral point geometry pushes chips forward, suited for through-hole applications
• H6 thread limit ensures consistent, controlled thread tolerance
• Plug chamfer with 3 flutes balances cutting load and chip formation
• Bright, uncoated finish - compatible with a broad range of cutting fluids and material types
• Right-hand thread direction, 28 threads per inch, UNF standard

Compatibility

Designed for through-hole tapping of 1/4-28 UNF threads in aluminum, brass, bronze, carbon steel, copper, magnesium, stainless steel, wrought aluminum alloy, and zinc workpieces. Part of the BALAX BX100 series.

Installation Notes

Installation should be performed by qualified machinists or maintenance technicians using a properly aligned tap holder or tapping head to avoid tap breakage. Always apply an appropriate cutting fluid for the workpiece material before tapping. Ensure the hole is pre-drilled to the correct tap drill diameter for a 1/4-28 UNF thread before use. Reverse the tap periodically to break chips when hand-tapping, and never force the tap if resistance increases unexpectedly.