Cleveland C54596 Hand Tap 3/8-24 Unf 4-flute Hss Bright

Product Description

The CLEVELAND C54596 is a straight-flute hand tap designed for cutting 3/8-24 UNF internal threads in ferrous and non-ferrous workpieces. Built from high speed steel with a bright uncoated finish, it carries a plug chamfer that allows the tap to start easily in both blind holes and through-holes. The 4-flute geometry provides stable cutting action and chip control across a broad range of materials. Overall length is 2.938 inches, with a thread length of 0.75 inches. The tap is ground to a Class 3B fit and an H3 thread limit, meeting close-tolerance requirements typical of precision machined assemblies.

This tap is suited for job shop and production machining environments where 3/8-24 UNF threads are required. The right-hand cutting direction and plug chamfer make it appropriate as a general-purpose starting tap in most tapping sequences. It is rated for use in alloy steel, carbon steel, aluminum, and free-machining stainless steel. The Series 1002 designation places it within Cleveland's standard catalog line for hand tapping and low-speed machine tapping applications.

Key Features

• 3/8-24 UNF thread form with right-hand cutting direction
• Plug chamfer for use in blind holes and through-holes
• 4-flute straight-flute geometry for stable chip control
• High speed steel construction for durability across multiple materials
• Bright uncoated finish — no coating buildup to affect thread tolerance
• H3 thread limit and Class 3B fit for close-tolerance work

Compatibility

Designed for hand tapping and low-speed machine tapping of 3/8-24 UNF threads in alloy steel, carbon steel, aluminum, and free-machining stainless steel workpieces.

Installation Notes

Installation is performed by machinists or tool and die technicians using a standard tap wrench or tapping head. Secure the workpiece firmly before tapping and ensure the starting hole is drilled to the correct tap drill diameter for a 3/8-24 UNF thread. Apply cutting fluid appropriate for the workpiece material to reduce heat and extend tap life. Back the tap off periodically to break chips when working in blind holes.