Cleveland C54218 Hand Tap 6-32 Unc Plug Hss Bright

Product Description

The CLEVELAND C54218 is a 6-32 UNC plug-chamfer hand tap manufactured from high speed steel with a bright uncoated finish. Designed for cutting right-hand internal threads in metalworking applications, this tap features three straight flutes that evacuate chips efficiently during both blind-hole and through-hole threading operations. The plug chamfer — typically 3 to 5 threads of taper — makes it suitable as a general-purpose starting tap or as the sole tap when through-hole threading is the goal. At 2.0 inches overall length with a 0.38-inch thread length, it fits standard tap wrenches and T-handle drivers common in machine shops and maintenance environments.

This tap is suited for threading operations in residential and commercial maintenance, machine shop production, and field repair scenarios where 6-32 UNC threads are required. The H2 thread limit and 3B class of fit make it appropriate for standard-tolerance internal thread production in a range of workpiece materials. It is intended for hand-tapping use with a tap wrench rather than machine-driven applications, though the straight-flute geometry is also compatible with low-speed CNC tapping with appropriate feeds.

Key Features

• 6-32 UNC thread form, right-hand cut, 32 threads per inch
• Plug chamfer provides 3 to 5 thread lead-in for general-purpose through-hole and blind-hole threading
• Three straight flutes for chip clearance in a wide range of materials
• High speed steel construction with bright uncoated finish — no coating to affect thread tolerance
• H2 thread limit with 3B class of fit for standard-tolerance internal threads
• 0.141-inch shank diameter with 3/16-inch square drive for standard tap wrenches

Compatibility

Designed for threading 6-32 UNC internal threads in alloy steel, aluminum, carbon steel, and free-machining stainless steel workpieces. Part of the CLEVELAND Series 1002 straight-flute hand tap line.

Installation Notes

Install using a properly sized tap wrench; ensure the tap is started perpendicular to the work surface to prevent cross-threading. For blind holes, use a tap guide or drill press fixture to maintain alignment and clear chips frequently by reversing the tap one-half turn per full turn of advance. Always secure the workpiece before tapping. Cutting oil or tapping fluid is recommended to extend tool life and improve thread finish, particularly in steel and stainless workpieces.