What Is a Tap Wrench?
A tap wrench, also known as a tap handle, is a manual tool used for cutting screw holes. It is a special tool necessary for creating screw holes. The tap wrench consists of a long, thin rod with handles on both ends. A tap, a drill-like tool, is attached and secured in the square hole at the center of the wrench.
There are various types of taps, including tapered types that narrow towards the end and dimensional types that maintain a consistent diameter throughout.
Uses of Tap Wrenches
Tap wrenches are utilized for turning taps to cut threaded holes in materials such as steel, which are not overly hard. However, cutting large screw holes manually can be challenging.
These wrenches are often used with taps for tasks like repairing ill-fitting screws in original holes or connecting metal parts with screws.
Principle of Tap Wrenches
Cutting a screw hole is a complex process requiring experience and skill in metalworking. Initially, a hole must be drilled with a drill bit that matches the desired screw size. If the hole is too small, it can be corrected, but if it’s too large, a larger screw hole may be necessary.
The first step involves cutting a tapered hole. Using a non-tapered tap for finishing will not work effectively. A guide hole at the entrance of the screw hole is crucial and challenging to make with a finishing tapered tap.
When using a tap wrench, turn it slowly. After turning halfway, return it to the starting position and continue to drill deeper. Applying lubricating oil can facilitate smoother turning of the tap and easier hole drilling.