Cleveland C55324 Spiral Point Tap 3/8-16 Unc Tin Hss

Product Description

The CLEVELAND C55324 is a spiral point tap designed for through-hole threading in metal workpieces. Built from high speed steel with a titanium nitride (TiN) finish, this plug-chamfer tap cuts a 3/8-16 UNC right-hand thread to a Class 3B fit with an H3 thread limit. The three-flute spiral point geometry pushes chips forward through the hole rather than packing them in the flutes, keeping the cutting zone clear and reducing the risk of tap breakage. Machinists, toolmakers, and maintenance mechanics use this tap in both manual and CNC tapping operations. The TiN coating adds surface hardness and lubricity, extending tool life in production environments.

The C55324 is suited for through-hole threading in alloy steel, carbon steel, and aluminum. It fits standard tapping operations on drill presses, CNC machining centers, and tap handles where a 3/8-16 UNC thread is required. With a 2-15/16 inch overall length and a 3/4 inch thread length, it works within typical machine spindle clearances for light to medium production runs. The plug chamfer allows threading from a drilled through-hole without requiring a starting bottoming tap.

Key Features

• Spiral point geometry pushes chips forward, ideal for through-hole threading
• TiN coating increases surface hardness and reduces friction during cutting
• High speed steel construction handles alloy steel, carbon steel, and aluminum
• Plug chamfer for use in pre-drilled through-holes
• H3 thread limit and Class 3B fit for standard tolerance applications
• Right-hand thread direction for conventional tapping setups

Compatibility

Designed for through-hole threading applications in alloy steel, carbon steel, and aluminum workpieces requiring a 3/8-16 UNC thread form. Fits standard tap holders and tapping chucks sized for the 0.381 inch shank diameter.

Installation Notes

This tap is installed by a machinist or maintenance mechanic in a tap handle, drill press, or CNC tapping setup. Secure the workpiece before tapping and ensure the pilot hole diameter matches the recommended tap drill size for 3/8-16 UNC threads. Apply appropriate cutting fluid for the workpiece material to prolong tool life and improve thread quality. Do not force the tap if resistance increases — back off to clear chips and re-apply cutting fluid.