Cleveland C57175 Spiral Point Tap 3/8-16 Unc Hss

Product Description

The CLEVELAND C57175 is a 3/8-16 UNC spiral point plug tap manufactured from high speed steel with a bright finish. Spiral point geometry pushes chips forward through the hole during cutting, making it the right tool for through-hole threading operations in production and repair environments. The plug chamfer — typically 3 to 5 threads — provides an easy start and handles the majority of general-purpose tapping work. At 2.9375 inches overall length with a 0.75 inch thread length, this tap fits standard tap holders and drill press setups. The H2 thread limit and Class 2B fit designation ensure threads meet standard tolerance requirements for most fastener assemblies. Licensed machinists, maintenance technicians, and trade professionals working in fabrication or field repair will find this a reliable general-purpose tap.

This tap is suited for through-hole threading in alloy steel, carbon steel, and aluminum workpieces. It is commonly used in HVAC, plumbing, and electrical panel fabrication shops where 3/8-16 fasteners are standard. The right-hand thread direction and 3-flute configuration handle most machine tapping and hand tapping scenarios in these materials without coolant-through features, making it appropriate for bench work and light CNC or drill press operations.

Key Features

• Spiral point geometry pushes chips forward, optimized for through-hole threading
• 3/8-16 UNC thread form, Class 2B fit, H2 thread limit for standard tolerance assemblies
• High speed steel construction for durability across steel and aluminum workpieces
• Bright finish with no coating — suitable for use with cutting oil or tapping fluid
• Plug chamfer provides easy thread start for general-purpose tapping
• Right-hand thread direction, 3 flutes, no coolant-through requirement

Compatibility

Designed for through-hole threading in alloy steel, aluminum, and carbon steel. Compatible with standard 3/8-inch tap holders, T-handle tap wrenches, and drill press or CNC tapping attachments that accept straight-shank taps with a 0.381 inch shank diameter.

Installation Notes

Tapping operations should be performed by a qualified machinist or experienced tradesperson following standard shop safety practices. Secure the workpiece firmly before tapping and ensure the tap is aligned perpendicular to the hole to prevent tap breakage. Apply appropriate cutting oil or tapping fluid to extend tool life and improve thread quality. When reversing to break chips during hand tapping, use deliberate, controlled strokes to avoid overloading the flutes.