Proper Use of a Tap and Die Set
Often considered to be a single tool, the tap and die serve completely different purposes in fact. To thread nuts and screws, both tools are used. The nut and the screw are taken care of by the tap and die respectively. The process of threading is not at all difficult and the pair of tools used for the job are easily handled. The result would be a poor thread at best and a broken piece of equipment at the worst if enough care is not taken of each one or too much pressure is used.
The most fragile component of the tap and die set is probably the tap. The resulting sharp edge suitable for threading is due to a special heat treatment that is undergone by it. The cutting edge is extremely easy to break due to this. To twist the tap, the special bar that is supplied should be used as the use of any other instrument would cause a breakage. Mole pliers or something similar is used mistakenly to force pressure on the tap. Problems due to the twisting process are least actually. Use of foreign objects which cause the tap to bend is the main issue and cause of damage. It would be difficult to remove the tap if it breaks in the hole.
A perfectly sized hole must be drilled when the tap part of the tap and die set is used. A poorly drilled hole causes frustration but this should not be too difficult. If a big hole is created, it would be the worst offense. Another hole will have to be drilled in the surface area as this is the only way to solve the problem even if it defaces it. Proper sized holes can be made from small holes quite easily. Should the tap be placed in a hole that is too tight, with the aforementioned fragility of the tap’s cutting edge it is obvious what would happen.
The importance of the die should not be estimated in a tap and die set even though the die is possibly the lesser used element. The ease with which this component of the set is used incorrectly is amazing. If you do not use lubricant before running the die down the bolt, the thread and die will both get damaged. Do not overcompensate with too much lubricant in the hope that the die will do its job even if it is not a good fit for the bolt. On a smooth shaft, always choose a die that is smaller than the shaft. Always apply oil as you slowly work your way down the shaft. After a 180 degree turn, always turn the die back 90 degrees to ensure that debris does not clog it.
The users of this equipment need to be careful when they use the tap and die set even though it is the best way of creating threads in nuts and bolts. Delicate instruments like these need to be handled with care. To make your tools last for a long time, ensure that you use them carefully.
James Dutton writes about the great benefits of power tools. With his articles, he aims to give you more tips on using those tools properly. For more information, check out tap and die and tap and die.