How to Use a Tap

Co-authored by Ryaan Tuttle

Last Updated: June 21, 2022 References

You can use a tap to cut threads in a hole drilled in metal, such as steel or aluminum, so you can screw in a bolt or screw. The process of tapping a hole is actually pretty simple and straightforward, but it’s important that you do it right so your threads and hole are even and consistent. Choose a drill bit and a tap that fits the screw or bolt you want to use by making sure they’re the same size. For safety, it’s also important that you steady the item you’re drilling and you use the right drill bits.

Part 1

Part 1 of 2:

Drilling the Hole for the Threads

1
Choose a tap and drill set in the size you need. Tap and drill sets include drill bits and taps that match each other so you can drill a hole with the bit, then use the tap that corresponds to it to add threads. Look for a set that includes both taps and drill bits at your local hardware or home improvement store.^{[1]
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- You can also order tap and drill sets online.
2
Clamp the metal in place with a vise or C-clamp so it doesn’t move. If the metal that you’re drilling moves, it could cause the drill bit to slip off, which could potentially cause an injury. Place the metal in a vise and tighten it so it’s secure, or attach a C-clamp on it to hold it in place.^{[2]
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- Keeping the metal steady also helps the drill penetrate it more easily.
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3
Use a center punch to make a divot where you plan to drill. A center punch is a tool that’s used to knock a divot into a surface, allowing a drill to grip and penetrate the surface more effectively. Use an automatic center punch by placing the tip against the metal and pressing down until it knocks a divot. For a regular center punch, place the tip against the metal and use a hammer to tap the end and create a divot.^{[3]
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- If you plan on drilling multiple holes, use your center punch to make divots where you want to drill them.
4
Insert the drill bit into the end of your drill. Put the drill bit into the chuck, which is the end of your drill. Tighten the chuck around the bit so it’s held securely in place.^{[4]
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5
Apply drilling oil into the divot. Drilling oil, also known as cutting oil or cutting fluid, is a lubricant that helps prevent the drill bit from overheating and makes it easier to cut through the metal. Squeeze a drop of the oil directly into the divot.^{[5]
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- It’s really important that you lubricate the metal to reduce friction and heat. If the metal gets too hot, it can harden and make it difficult to use your tap.
- If you don’t have drilling oil, use basic 3-in-1 oil as a lubricant.
- You can find drilling oil at your local hardware store and by ordering it online.
6
Place the end of the drill bit into the divot and start drilling slowly. Take your drill and hold it over the divot so the bit is pointing straight down. Press the end of the bit into the divot, apply pressure, and start drilling slowly to begin penetrating the surface.^{[6]
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- It’s important that you start drilling slowly so the bit is able to grip and pierce the metal.
- Be sure to keep the drill bit pointing straight down so the hole is straight for your tap.
- If you have a drilling machine, also known as a drill press, use that to drill your hole.
7
Bring the drill up to medium speed and apply consistent pressure. As the bit cuts into the metal, slowly increase the speed of the drill. Keep the drill at slow to medium speed and apply gentle but consistent pressure against it.^{[7]
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- Don’t push too hard on the drill or the bit could bend or snap.
- Once you get to medium speed, keep the speed constant.
8
Remove the drill every 1 inch (2.5 cm) to blow out flakes. Metal flakes and shavings will create more friction and cause your drill bit to heat up. It can also make the hole uneven and rough. As you’re drilling through the metal, remove the bit every now and then to blow out the metal flakes and shavings. Then, replace the drill and continue cutting until you pierce through the metal.^{[8]
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- If your drill is struggling to cut through the metal or the bit is getting hot, apply more drilling oil into the hole.

Part 2

Part 2 of 2:

Threading the Hole

1
Insert the tap that matches the hole into a T-handle. A T-handle is a device that allows you to manually tap a drilled hole and create threads for screws and bolts. Insert the tap into the end of the T-handle and tighten the jaws around the tap so it’s held securely.^{[9]
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- You can find T-handles at your local hardware store, home improvement store, or by ordering them online.
2
Apply drilling oil into the hole to lubricate it. Squeeze a drop or 2 of the drilling oil directly into the hole to help make it easier for your T-handle to tap it and create threads. Wipe away any excess oil that drips through the other side of the hole with a clean towel.^{[10]
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- You can also apply some drilling oil directly to the threads of your tap.
3
Fit the end of the tap into the hole so it’s straight. Align the tap so it’s pointing straight down and lines up with the hole you drilled. Stick the end of the tap into the hole and double-check that it’s lined up straight so the threads you create will be in the right alignment.^{[11]
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- Once you thread a hole, it will be difficult to re-thread it, so make sure it’s lined up right!
4
Rotate the T-handle to thread your hole with the tap. Turn the T-handle clockwise to start tapping the hole and creating threads. Keep turning the handle in the same direction using smooth rotations. Avoid putting too much pressure on the T-handle and allow the tap the thread the hole on its own so they’re even and consistent.^{[12]
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- Applying pressure while you rotate can cause the threads to be uneven, which means your screws or bolts may not fit into them.
5
Turn the T-handle the opposite direction to remove the tap. Keep turning the T-handle until it sticks out of the other side of the hole. Then, gently rotate it counterclockwise to start moving it back out of the hole. Keep turning the handle until you’re able to remove the tap from the hole.^{[13]
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Community Q&A

Question

Which checks should I perform before using a tap?

Community Answer

Make sure that the hole and tap are lubricated and the hole is free of debris. Check for chips on the tap itself, and check the working conditions of your tools before and during use. The last thing you need on a job like this is to have a tap sheared off inside the hole.
Question

What should I do if my tap won't turn?

Community Answer

You should ask for help from a plumber.
Question

How do I apply hand threading with hand and tap set?

Community Answer

Same guidelines as outlined above: check size of screw you want, obtain appropriate tap, pre-drill, use tap with tap handle and turn counterclockwise 1/3 for every full turn so that tap does not get stuck with debris.