Cleveland C54509 Hand Tap 5/16-18 Unc Plug 3-flute Hss

Product Description

The CLEVELAND C54509 is a 5/16-18 UNC straight-flute hand tap designed for cutting internal threads in both blind holes and through-holes. Made from high speed steel with a bright (uncoated) finish, this plug-chamfer tap is built for manual or machine-assisted tapping in a wide range of ferrous and non-ferrous materials. The 3-flute straight-flute design provides strong chip control and consistent thread form. At 2.719 inches overall length with a 0.69-inch thread length, it meets Class 3B fit requirements at an H3 thread limit, making it suitable for close-tolerance work where thread accuracy matters.

This tap is suited for general-purpose threading applications in job shops, maintenance facilities, and production environments. The plug chamfer — typically 3 to 5 threads of lead — allows easy starting in through-holes and shallow blind holes. Compatible materials include alloy steel, carbon steel, aluminum, and free-machining stainless steel. It belongs to the Cleveland Series 1002 and is packaged individually, making it practical for bench work or field service situations where a single tap is needed for a specific job.

Key Features

• Plug chamfer for easy thread starting in through-holes and shallow blind holes
• High speed steel construction for durability across a range of workpiece materials
• Bright uncoated finish for use without specialized coolant or lubricant requirements
• 3-flute straight-flute geometry delivers consistent chip evacuation and thread form
• Class 3B fit at H3 thread limit supports close-tolerance internal thread applications
• Right-hand thread direction; compatible with standard tap handles and tapping heads

Compatibility

Designed for threading 5/16-18 UNC internal threads in alloy steel, carbon steel, aluminum, and free-machining stainless steel — suitable for both blind-hole and through-hole threading applications.

Installation Notes

This tap is installed by a machinist or maintenance technician using a standard tap handle, T-handle wrench, or machine tapping fixture. Always use an appropriate cutting fluid or tapping oil for the workpiece material to extend tool life and improve thread finish. Secure the workpiece firmly before tapping and ensure the starting hole is drilled to the correct tap drill diameter for a 5/16-18 UNC thread. Reverse the tap periodically to break chips when working in blind holes.