Kennametal 5431656 Spiral Point Tap M3x0.5 Metric Hss-e

Product Description

The KENNAMETAL 5431656 is a spiral point tap designed for through-hole threading in metric applications. It cuts an M3x0.5 thread profile to a 6H class of fit using a 2-flute, plug chamfer geometry that pushes chips forward ahead of the cutting zone. The tap is manufactured from High-Speed Steel-E (HSS-E), a cobalt-enriched grade identified here as material grade KSP32, and carries a dual TiCN plus TiN coating for improved wear resistance and lubricity. It is intended for use by machinists, toolroom technicians, and production operators working on precision threaded fastener holes.

This tap is suited for through-hole threading in steel, stainless steel, cast iron, and non-ferrous metals. Its spiral point geometry is most effective in production environments where chip evacuation from blind or through bores must be controlled to prevent re-cutting. The plug chamfer provides a gradual thread lead-in, making it appropriate for CNC tapping centers and manual tapping operations where straight entry and thread consistency are required. The T820 series designation identifies it within the KENNAMETAL standard tooling line for metric threading.

Key Features

• M3x0.5 metric thread profile cut to 6H class of fit tolerance
• Spiral point geometry pushes chips forward for clean through-hole threading
• HSS-E cobalt-alloy construction (material grade KSP32) for elevated heat and wear resistance
• Dual TiCN plus TiN coating extends tool life in steel and stainless steel applications
• 2-flute, plug chamfer design for controlled thread lead-in
• Right-hand thread direction, D3 thread limit, no coolant-through requirement

Compatibility

Designed for through-hole threading in steel, stainless steel, cast iron, and non-ferrous metal workpieces. Compatible with CNC tapping centers, drill presses, and manual tap handles that accept the 3.58 mm shank diameter of the T820 series.

Installation Notes

This tap should be installed by a qualified machinist or toolroom technician. Before mounting, verify that the machine spindle, chuck, or tap holder is powered down and locked out. Confirm the pilot hole diameter matches the M3x0.5 pre-drill specification before tapping to avoid tap breakage. Use a compatible cutting fluid or tapping compound appropriate for the workpiece material, and never reverse-force a spiral point tap in a blind hole application.