Value Collection MSC-04471181 Straight Flute Tap 5/16-18

Product Description

The VALUE COLLECTION MSC-04471181 is a straight flute tap designed to cut internal 5/16-18 UNC threads in through-holes and open-bottomed blind holes. Built from high-speed steel (HSS) with a bright/uncoated finish, this plug chamfer tap features 4 flutes that evacuate chips efficiently during hand or machine tapping operations. It is manufactured to a 3B class of fit with an H3 thread limit, producing threads that fall within standard tolerance ranges for general mechanical assemblies. Machinists, tool-and-die makers, and maintenance technicians use this tap for production threading and repair work across a wide range of ferrous and non-ferrous materials.

This tap is suited for use in machine shops, maintenance facilities, and production environments where 5/16-18 UNC internal threads are required. The plug chamfer — typically 3 to 5 threads of lead — makes it appropriate for both through-hole and sufficiently deep blind-hole applications. At 1 inch of thread length and 2-23/32 inches overall length, it fits standard tap handles and machine tapping chucks used in drill press, CNC, and manual lathe setups.

Key Features

• 5/16-18 UNC thread form with right-hand thread direction for standard fastener compatibility
• Plug chamfer provides progressive thread engagement, reducing torque and tap breakage risk
• 4 straight flutes for balanced chip evacuation in through-hole tapping applications
• High-speed steel construction offers toughness and wear resistance across a broad range of workpiece materials
• H3 thread limit and 3B class of fit meet standard tolerance requirements for general-purpose assemblies
• Bright/uncoated finish maintains dimensional accuracy close to nominal HSS ground size

Compatibility

Designed as a standard replacement or stock tap for any application requiring 5/16-18 UNC internal threads. Fits tap handles and tapping attachments sized for the corresponding tap shank diameter.

Installation Notes

Always secure the workpiece before tapping and use an appropriate cutting fluid or tapping compound to reduce friction and extend tap life. Align the tap perpendicular to the workpiece surface at the start to avoid cross-threading and tap breakage. When using a manual tap handle, apply steady, even torque and back off periodically to break and clear chips. Inspect the tap for wear or chipping before each use — a damaged tap can seize or break in the hole, requiring extraction.