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Carbon Steel Tap Bottoming Type 3/8-16 (1pc)
Manufacturer Resources
Product Specs
- Division:
- Electrical H1
- Pack Type:
- Pouch
- Product Family:
- Electrical Supplies
- Sub Division:
- Electrical-E H2
- Department:
- Electrical
Metallics 3816CTBE – Frequently Asked Questions
1) What is a bottoming tap used for, and do I need a taper tap first?
A bottoming tap has almost no chamfer on the lead, so it cuts full-depth threads right to the bottom of a blind or closed hole. The 3816CTBE is the bottoming type, so plan on starting the hole with a taper or plug tap and then finishing with this one. Driving a bottoming tap into a fresh hole is hard to start square and tends to bind.
2) Is the Metallics 3816CTBE a high speed steel tap?
No. It is a carbon steel tap. Carbon steel cuts mild steel, aluminum, brass, and plastic fine and is normally used for hand tapping and chasing existing threads. For production work, stainless, or power tapping, step up to a high speed steel tap instead.
3) Can I use this tap to clean up damaged 3/8-16 threads in a strut nut or rod coupling?
Yes, chasing an existing 3/8-16 thread is exactly where a bottoming tap earns its keep, because it reaches the full depth of a closed or short hole that a taper tap cannot finish. Confirm the thread you are repairing is 3/8-16 coarse and not a fine pitch before running it through.
4) Is the Metallics 3816CTBE the right tap for tapping into structural steel for conduit hangers?
For a one-off or a small number of holes in mild structural steel, yes, used by hand with cutting oil. The limit is the material: it is carbon steel, not HSS, so repeated tapping of hardened or thick structural members, or any power tapping, will dull or snap it. Use an HSS tap for that duty.
5) How many taps come in the 3816CTBE pack?
One tap per pack, supplied in a pouch. If you are tapping a run of 3/8-16 holes on a job, order multiples, since carbon steel taps are consumable and a broken tap in a blind hole stops the work.
How fast can I get the Metallics 3816CTBE delivered?
Most orders ship the same day from our distribution partners, with quick delivery throughout the
continental
U.S.
Need it urgently? Contact Us for expedited shipping options.
Can I return it if it doesn’t work for me?
Yes—ZenSupply offers a hassle-free return policy. If the product isn’t the right fit,
reach out to our support team for a return authorization or setup a return by following our return instructions.
Does the Metallics 3816CTBE come with a warranty?
Absolutely. The Metallics 3816CTBE is backed by a manufacturer’s warranty.
For full warranty terms, check the product documentation or Contact Us.
How do I get technical support or installation help for the Metallics 3816CTBE?
You can call, text, or email our expert support team for fast answers. We’re here to help with
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selection,
installation tips, and troubleshooting. Contact Us
Why buy the Metallics 3816CTBE from ZenSupply?
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and
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every order.
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