Hertel G127220-S Pipe Tap 1/4-18 Nptf 4 Flute Hss

Product Description

The HERTEL G127220-S is a standard pipe tap designed to cut internal NPTF (National Pipe Taper Fuel) threads in metal workpieces. It produces a 1/4-18 thread form — meaning a 1/4-inch nominal pipe size at 18 threads per inch — in a tapered profile that creates a pressure-tight, dryseal fit without requiring a separate sealant. The tap is ground from high speed steel (HSS) stock and left with a bright, uncoated finish. It features four flutes with a regular hook geometry for balanced chip clearance in through-hole and blind-hole applications. Overall length is 2-7/16 inches. Plumbers, pipefitters, and HVAC technicians reach for this type of tap when threading fittings, manifolds, or ported castings to accept standard NPT or NPTF pipe connections.

This tap is suited for threading ferrous and non-ferrous metals including steel, cast iron, brass, and aluminum. Typical applications include adding or restoring pipe threads in hydraulic fittings, compressed air manifolds, refrigerant line ports, valve bodies, and plumbing fixture ports. The NPTF thread form is specified where a dryseal mechanical connection is required — common in fuel lines, hydraulic systems, and refrigerant circuits where thread-sealant failure is not acceptable. The 1/4-18 size is one of the most frequently encountered pipe thread sizes in light-duty plumbing and HVAC work.

Key Features

• 1/4-18 NPTF thread form produces a dryseal taper thread without sealant dependence
• Four-flute, regular-hook geometry provides balanced chip evacuation in a range of materials
• High speed steel construction maintains cutting edge integrity across ferrous and non-ferrous workpieces
• Bright, uncoated finish allows visual inspection of the cutting edges before and after use
• 2-7/16-inch overall length fits standard tap wrenches and low-clearance portable drill setups
• Single-piece unit quantity simplifies replacement procurement for field and shop use

Compatibility

Designed as an OEM-style cutting tool for use wherever a 1/4-18 NPTF internal pipe thread is required in metallic workpieces; compatible with standard tap wrenches and machine tap holders sized for this shank diameter.

Installation Notes

This tap is installed by a machinist, pipefitter, or qualified HVAC or plumbing technician using a calibrated tap wrench or tapping machine set to the correct feed rate for the material being threaded. De-energize any equipment and relieve all system pressure before tapping ports on live assemblies. Use an appropriate cutting fluid for the base material to extend tool life and produce a clean thread form. Do not force or back-drive a tap in hard material — back off a quarter turn periodically to break chips and prevent tap breakage.