Cleveland C54120 Hand Tap 3-56 Unf Taper 3-flute Hss

Product Description

The CLEVELAND C54120 is a straight-flute hand tap designed for cutting internal 3-56 UNF threads in metallic workpieces. Built from high speed steel (HSS) with a bright, uncoated finish, it delivers consistent thread form in both blind-hole and through-hole applications. The taper chamfer — typically 7 to 10 threads — guides gradual thread engagement and reduces starting torque, making this tap well suited for hand-tapping operations. With an overall length of 1.813 inches, a 0.5 inch thread length, and a 0.110 inch square drive size, it fits standard tap wrenches used in bench and field work. Class of fit is 2B with an H2 thread limit.

This tap is intended for threading 3-56 UNF holes in alloy steel, carbon steel, aluminum, and free-machining stainless steel. It is commonly used in precision assembly, instrument fabrication, and small-component manufacturing where fine-pitch unified threads are required. The 3-flute straight-flute geometry provides chip clearance adequate for most of these materials and keeps the tool profile compact for tight workpiece geometry. It is sold individually and packaged as a single unit.

Key Features

• High speed steel construction for durability across a broad range of metallic materials
• Bright, uncoated finish — no coating buildup that could affect thread tolerance in fine-pitch work
• Taper chamfer for easy thread starting and reduced entry torque
• H2 thread limit holds 2B class of fit for standard UNF fastener assembly
• 3-flute straight-flute design supports both blind-hole and through-hole threading
• Right-hand thread direction compatible with standard tap wrenches and T-handles

Compatibility

Designed for use in any application requiring a 3-56 UNF right-hand internal thread. Compatible with alloy steel, carbon steel, aluminum, and free-machining stainless steel workpieces as stated by the manufacturer. Fits standard tap wrenches sized for a 0.110 inch square drive.

Installation Notes

A machinist or experienced metalworker should perform this operation. Before tapping, ensure the drilled hole is the correct tap drill size for 3-56 UNF and that the workpiece is securely fixtured. Apply cutting fluid appropriate for the workpiece material to extend tap life and improve thread finish. Back the tap off periodically to break chips, particularly in blind holes, and never force a hand tap — if resistance increases sharply, back out and clear the flutes before continuing.