Value Collection MSC-04619318 Spiral Flute Tap 5/16-18 Unc

Product Description

The VALUE COLLECTION MSC-04619318 is a spiral flute tap designed for cutting internal threads in through-holes and shallow blind holes where chip evacuation is critical. Built from high-speed steel (HSS) with a bright/uncoated finish, this tap features a 45-degree helix angle that pulls chips up and out of the hole during the threading operation. The modified bottoming chamfer allows threading closer to the bottom of a hole than a standard taper or plug tap. At 2-23/32 inches overall length, it fits standard tap holders and hand-tap wrenches. Machinists and toolroom technicians use this tap on manual mills, drill presses, and CNC machining centers for general-purpose threading work.

This tap is suited for threading ferrous and non-ferrous materials in production and job-shop environments where a 5/16-18 UNC thread form is required. The 3-flute, fast-flute spiral design is particularly effective in ductile materials such as aluminum, mild steel, and soft alloys where long, stringy chips would otherwise pack and cause tap breakage. The right-hand thread direction and 3B class of fit make it appropriate for standard commercial and industrial fastener assemblies where moderate tolerance control is needed.

Key Features

• 5/16-18 UNC thread form with right-hand thread direction and 3B class of fit for standard commercial tolerances
• 45-degree helix angle with fast-flute spiral geometry evacuates chips upward, reducing chip packing in ductile materials
• Modified bottoming chamfer allows threading closer to the bottom of a blind hole than plug or taper chamfer styles
• High-speed steel construction provides good toughness and wear resistance for general-purpose tapping applications
• Bright/uncoated finish — no coating buildup at the cutting edge, suitable for use with cutting fluid on a range of workpiece materials
• H3 thread limit provides controlled oversize for use with standard tapping fluids and typical plated or finished fastener assemblies

Compatibility

Designed as an OEM-style replacement or direct-use threading tool compatible with standard tap holders, T-handle tap wrenches, and machine tap chucks configured for 5/16-18 UNC spiral flute taps.

Installation Notes

Tapping operations should be performed by a qualified machinist following standard shop-safety procedures. Secure the workpiece firmly before beginning; never hand-hold a part during machine tapping. Apply an appropriate cutting fluid or tapping compound for the workpiece material to extend tap life and improve thread finish. Ensure the tap is properly aligned with the pre-drilled pilot hole to prevent tap breakage — misalignment is the leading cause of breakage with small-diameter taps.