Tap Wrench
A tap wrench is a hand tool used to hold and rotate taps while cutting internal threads in a drilled hole. It allows the tap to rotate evenly and helps produce accurate threads. Tap wrenches are commonly used in fitting and machine shops.
Material
Tap wrenches are usually made from high quality steel or alloy steel to provide strength, durability, and resistance to wear.
Parts of a Tap Wrench
- Body: The central portion that holds the tap.
- Jaws: Adjustable parts that grip the tap squarely.
- Handle: Used to rotate the tap.
- Adjusting Screw: Used to tighten or loosen the jaws.
Types of Tap Wrenches
- Solid Tap Wrench: Designed for a specific tap size and provides strong grip.
- Adjustable Tap Wrench: Can hold taps of different sizes and is widely used in workshops.
Uses
- Holding taps during threading operations.
- Rotating taps to cut internal threads.
- Ensuring accurate alignment of taps.
Removal of Broken Tap and Studs
Sometimes taps or studs may break inside the hole during threading operations. Special tools called tap extractors or stud extractors are used to remove them safely without damaging the workpiece.
Tap Stud Extractor
A tap extractor is a tool used to remove broken taps from threaded holes. It grips the broken tap and allows it to be turned out of the hole.
Uses
- Removing broken taps from holes.
- Removing broken studs or bolts.
- Preventing damage to threaded holes.
Dies
A die is a cutting tool used to cut external threads on rods or bolts. Dies are commonly used in fitting shops for producing threaded parts and repairing damaged threads.
Standards of Dies
- British Standard Thread Dies
- Metric Thread Dies
- BIS Standard Thread Dies
Material of Dies
Dies are generally made from high speed steel (HSS) or alloy steel so that they can withstand cutting forces and maintain sharp cutting edges.
Parts of a Die
- Body: The circular main portion of the die.
- Cutting Edges: Edges that cut the external threads.
- Flutes: Grooves that allow chip removal.
- Adjusting Screw Slots: Used to adjust the size of the die.
Types of Dies
- Solid Die
- Split Die
- Adjustable Die
- Die Nut
Method of Using Dies
- Secure the rod in a vice.
- Select the correct die for the thread size.
- Place the die in the die stock.
- Apply cutting oil on the rod.
- Rotate the die slowly to cut threads.
- Reverse the die slightly to break chips.
- Continue until the required thread length is achieved.
Die Stock
A die stock is a tool used to hold the die while cutting external threads. It provides a handle for rotating the die and ensures proper alignment during threading.
Material
Die stocks are generally made from strong steel or alloy steel for durability and strength.
Parts of Die Stock
- Body: Holds the die securely.
- Handles: Used to rotate the die during threading.
- Adjusting Screws: Used to fix the die firmly.
Uses
- Holding dies during threading operations.
- Cutting external threads on rods and bolts.
- Repairing damaged threads.
Conclusion
Tools such as tap wrenches, dies, and die stocks play an important role in thread cutting operations. They are widely used in fitting and machining workshops to produce accurate internal and external threads. Proper use of these tools ensures strong and precise threaded joints.