Balax 30123-000 Spiral Point Tap 3/8-16 Unc Plug Chamfer H3

Product Description

The BALAX 30123-000 is a spiral point tap designed for through-hole threading in a wide range of metals and alloys. Built from M42 powdered metal high-speed steel (PM-HSS), it delivers superior wear resistance and edge retention compared to conventional HSS taps. The plug chamfer provides a gradual thread lead-in, making it well suited for through-hole applications where the tap can push chips forward and out of the cut. With a 3/8-16 UNC thread form, 3 flutes, H3 thread limit, and a 3B class of fit, this tap meets standard tolerance requirements for general-purpose threaded fastener holes in production and repair work.

The 30123-000 is used in through-hole tapping operations on low-carbon steel, 300-series stainless steel, wrought aluminum alloy, die cast aluminum, die cast zinc, magnesium, copper, brass, and bronze castings. It is suited for job shop, production floor, and maintenance applications where a reliable right-hand spiral point tap is needed for manual or machine tapping of 3/8-16 UNC holes. The bright, uncoated finish keeps tooling cost low for general-purpose work where coatings are not required.

Key Features

• M42 powdered metal HSS construction for extended tool life in production tapping
• Spiral point geometry pushes chips forward through the hole, reducing chip packing in through-hole applications
• Plug chamfer allows gradual thread engagement and reduced torque at entry
• H3 thread limit and 3B class of fit meet standard tolerance requirements for general fastener threads
• Right-hand thread direction, no coolant-through requirement, no interrupted thread design needed
• Bright uncoated finish suitable for lubricated tapping in the listed material applications

Compatibility

Designed for through-hole tapping of 3/8-16 UNC threads in low-carbon steel, 300 stainless steel, wrought aluminum alloy, die cast aluminum, die cast zinc, magnesium, copper, brass, and bronze castings. Part of the BALAX BX100 series.

Installation Notes

Install in a tap wrench, tapping head, or CNC spindle with appropriate chuck for the shank diameter. Power down or disengage the machine and secure the workpiece before tool changes. Apply a suitable cutting fluid or tapping lubricant for the material being tapped; dry tapping is not recommended. Follow standard shop practice and applicable OSHA and machine-tool guidelines for rotating cutting tools.