What Is Tapping Machinery?
Tapping machinery, also known as a tapper, is a machine used for threading screws into metals, including steel, stainless steel, and aluminum plates.
Standard tapping machinery processes screws one at a time. However, there are machines available that can process multiple screws simultaneously or be programmed to automatically process screws.
Uses of Tapping Machinery
Tapping machinery is employed to create threaded holes when working with screws in various metals such as steel, stainless steel, and aluminum.
It finds applications in a wide range of products, including hexagonal, square, flange, round nuts, bent taps, straight taps, flange nuts, bag nuts, and aluminum nuts.
Principles of Tapping Machinery
Tapping machinery utilizes a special drill-like tool called a tap to thread holes while cutting through the material.
The tapping process requires the tap and the workpiece to be lubricated with cutting oil during operation.
While it is possible to automate this entire process, some tapping machinery includes a mechanism for automatic application of cutting oil to enhance efficiency.
A digital counter is often integrated to prevent oversight by the operator, allowing them to monitor the machine’s progress as they work.
These machines are capable of handling a wide range of taps, from standard high taps to special carbide taps.
Servo control through a sequencer governs overall speed, torque, and motion, enabling precise lead (pitch) feed tapping.
Shaft rotation and feed rates can be easily and accurately adjusted without the need for part replacements.
Some tapping machinery features a system designed to minimize tap runout during tapping operations.
They are engineered to accommodate both bent and straight taps within a single unit.
Torque trends over the tap’s entire lifespan can be graphed to aid in analysis, control, and quality improvement.
Online connectivity allows for remote monitoring and storage of various tapping data.
Tapping data can be analyzed, configured, automatically determined during operation, and adjusted for efficient operation.