Cleveland C56020 Hand Tap 1/2-13 Unc Plug 4-flute Hss

Product Description

The CLEVELAND C56020 is a 1/2-13 UNC straight-flute hand tap designed for cutting internal threads in both blind holes and through-holes. Built from high speed steel with an oxide coating, this plug-chamfer tap handles the full threading sequence in ferrous and stainless materials where hand or machine tapping operations are required. The 4-flute design provides balanced cutting geometry and chip control across a range of workpiece materials. At 3.375 inches overall length with a 0.94-inch thread length, the C56020 fits standard tap wrench drives via its 7/16-inch square drive and 0.367-inch shank diameter. The H3 thread limit and Class 2B fit specification make it suitable for general-purpose threaded fastener applications.

The C56020 is used in job shop, maintenance, and production environments where 1/2-13 UNC threads must be cut or chased in cast iron, steel, or stainless steel workpieces. The plug chamfer — with its moderate lead — works for starting threads in through-holes or continuing after a taper tap in blind holes. This tap is suited for use by machinists, millwrights, pipefitters, and maintenance mechanics working to standard UNC thread specifications.

Key Features

• 1/2-13 UNC thread form with Class 2B fit and H3 thread limit for general-purpose fastener compatibility
• High speed steel construction with oxide coating for corrosion resistance and lubricity during cutting
• Plug chamfer provides moderate lead suitable for both through-hole and blind-hole threading
• 4-flute straight-flute geometry for balanced cutting action in ferrous and stainless materials
• Right-hand thread direction, standard for the vast majority of UNC fastener applications
• No coolant-through feature — intended for hand or manual machine tapping with applied cutting fluid

Compatibility

Designed for tapping 1/2-13 UNC threads in cast iron, stainless steel, and steel workpieces in blind-hole and through-hole applications. Part of the Cleveland Series 1002BO straight-flute hand tap line.

Installation Notes

Secure the tap in a properly sized tap wrench before starting. Always apply a cutting fluid appropriate to the workpiece material — particularly when tapping stainless steel — to reduce heat buildup and extend tap life. Back the tap off periodically to break and clear chips, especially in blind-hole applications. Follow shop safety practices and use appropriate personal protective equipment when hand-tapping operations are performed.