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Carbon Steel Tap Taper Type 5/16-18 (1pc)
Manufacturer Resources
Product Specs
- Division:
- Electrical H1
- Pack Type:
- Pouch
- Sub Division:
- Electrical-E H2
- Department:
- Electrical
Metallics 51618CTTE – Frequently Asked Questions
1) What thread size does the Metallics 51618CTTE tap cut?
It cuts a 5/16-18 thread, which is the UNC (coarse) pitch for a 5/16 inch bolt. Use it when you need to thread a hole for 5/16-18 machine screws, hanger rods, or bolts in steel. A 5/16-24 fine thread fastener will not engage threads cut with this tap.
2) What is a taper type tap used for, and is it right for a blind hole?
A taper tap has roughly 8 to 10 chamfered lead threads, so it starts easily and pulls itself square in the hole. That makes the 51618CTTE good for starting threads in through holes. In a blind hole it will not cut full threads all the way to the bottom, because the tapered lead never reaches full form. If you need threads to the bottom of a blind hole, start with a taper tap and finish with a plug or bottoming tap in the same 5/16-18 size.
3) Is this a carbon steel or high speed steel tap, and does that matter for what I am tapping?
The 51618CTTE is carbon steel. Carbon steel taps cut mild steel, strut, channel, aluminum, and brass well at hand speeds, but they lose temper if they get hot, so keep them on a tap wrench or a slow drill and use cutting oil. For stainless, hardened steel, or production drilling, a high speed steel tap holds an edge longer.
4) Can I use the Metallics 5/16-18 tap to clean out damaged threads in an existing hole?
It will chase bruised or painted threads in a 5/16-18 hole, and the long tapered lead makes it easy to pick up the existing thread without cross-threading. Bear in mind it is a cutting tap, not a thread-forming chaser, so it removes metal, back it out and clear chips often rather than forcing it through rust or thread locker.
5) Will this tap work for tapping holes in strut channel and electrical enclosures?
That is the use it is sold for. Metallics catalogs it with its electrical supplies line, and 5/16-18 is the common thread for strut nuts, hanger rod, and beam clamps on conduit and cable tray runs. Carbon steel handles the mild steel used in strut and sheet steel enclosures at hand tapping speeds.
6) How many taps come in the Metallics 51618CTTE pack?
One tap, supplied in a pouch. Electricians who tap regularly tend to order spares, since a single carbon steel tap is the whole order and breaking one mid-job stops the work.
7) What is the exact part number to order for this 5/16-18 taper tap?
Order Metallics part number 51618CTTE. The number reads out as the thread size and type: 5/16-18, Carbon steel, Taper Type. Sister sizes follow the same pattern, so the number itself tells you the thread you are getting.
How fast can I get the Metallics 51618CTTE delivered?
Most orders ship the same day from our distribution partners, with quick delivery throughout the
continental
U.S.
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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 51618CTTE come with a warranty?
Absolutely. The Metallics 51618CTTE 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 51618CTTE?
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