Cleveland C54726 Straight Flute Hand Tap 1/2"-13 Taper HSS

Cleveland 1/2"-13 UNC Hand Tap

This Cleveland C54726 straight flute hand tap cuts 1/2"-13 UNC threads in through-holes and blind holes. The taper chamfer eases the start of the cut and reduces the torque needed on the first turns. High-speed steel construction suits general-purpose threading in steel, cast iron and non-ferrous metals. The bright uncoated finish is ready for cutting fluid or paste.

Starting the tap straight and clearing chips

A 27/64 inch drill produces the recommended 75 percent thread depth before tapping begins. Apply steady pressure and reverse the tap every half-turn to break and evacuate chips from the flutes. Running the tap dry or forcing it past resistance often leads to broken flutes or oversize threads. Use a tapping guide or a lathe tailstock to keep alignment true.

Sustained threading in production runs

The H3 limit and 2B class of fit hold pitch diameter within tolerance across repeated cuts in medium-carbon steel. High-speed steel retains hardness during the longer cycle times of hand tapping compared with a quick machine pass. Cutting fluid prevents built-up edge that would otherwise degrade thread finish after several holes. The 15/16 inch thread length limits the maximum depth per setup.