Kennametal 1542887 Hand Tap 9/16-18 Unf Bottoming Hss

Product Description

The KENNAMETAL 1542887 is a straight-flute hand tap designed to cut 9/16-18 UNF internal threads in a right-hand direction. Built from high-speed steel (HSS) with a bright, uncoated finish, it carries an H3 thread limit for consistent fit in standard tolerance applications. The bottoming chamfer allows threading to the bottom of blind holes, making it the final-pass tap in a tap set sequence. With an overall length of 3.59 inches and a thread length of 1.656 inches, it is sized for typical manual and machine-assisted tapping operations. Machinists, toolmakers, and maintenance technicians install this tap in hand-tapping handles or low-speed machines.

This tap is suited for cutting threads in cast iron and non-ferrous metals such as aluminum, brass, and copper alloys. The bottoming chamfer — typically 1 to 2 threads of lead — requires a starter or plug tap to first open the hole before final threading. It fits residential and industrial maintenance, job shops, and production environments where 9/16-18 UNF fastener threads are required. The 4-flute straight-flute geometry provides chip clearance in through-hole and semi-blind applications typical of these materials.

Key Features

• Bottoming chamfer for threading to the base of blind holes
• High-speed steel construction for durability across cast iron and non-ferrous materials
• H3 thread limit for standard tolerance UNF thread production
• 4-flute straight-flute design supports chip evacuation in applicable materials
• Bright uncoated finish — no coating buildup to affect thread tolerance
• Right-hand cut, 9/16-18 UNF thread form

Compatibility

Designed for cutting 9/16-18 UNF internal threads in cast iron and non-ferrous metals. Compatible with standard tap handles and low-speed tapping machines sized for the 0.429-inch shank diameter. Part of KENNAMETAL Series 5305 and 5303.

Installation Notes

A licensed machinist or trained technician should install this tap using a properly sized tap wrench or machine holder. The workpiece must be securely fixtured and the tap aligned perpendicular to the drilled hole before threading begins. A starter or plug tap should be used first to establish thread lead in blind holes before switching to this bottoming tap. Apply appropriate cutting fluid for the material being tapped to reduce tool wear and improve thread finish.