03A122 - Walter 12-24 NC High-Speed Steel Plug Tap

Precision Threading with High-Speed Steel

The Walter 12-24 NC Plug HSS Tap (SKU: 03A122) is a premium-grade cutting tool designed for industrial threading applications where accuracy and durability are paramount. Manufactured from top-tier High-Speed Steel (HSS), this tap is engineered to withstand the thermal stresses and abrasive nature of cutting threads in hard metals. Unlike carbon steel taps that may dull quickly, the HSS composition ensures a prolonged cutting edge life, making it an economical choice for production environments and frequent maintenance tasks.

This specific tool features a "Plug" chamfer style, characterized by a 3-5 thread taper at the tip. This geometry makes it the industry standard for through-holes, as it allows the tap to gradually cut the thread while pushing chips forward and out of the exit hole. The threads themselves are precision ground, not rolled, which guarantees a cleaner cut and tighter adherence to the 12-24 National Coarse (NC) specification. This attention to detail results in fasteners that fit smoothly and securely, reducing the likelihood of cross-threading or seizing during assembly.

Versatility is a core attribute of the Walter 03A122. It is hardened and tempered to strike the perfect balance between hardness for cutting and toughness to resist snapping. It performs exceptionally well across a broad range of materials, including aluminum, mild steel, and difficult-to-machine stainless steel alloys. Whether utilized in a hand tapping operation with a tap wrench or in a machine setup, this tool delivers consistent, high-quality threads every time.

For maintenance and repair operations (MRO), this tap is indispensable for chasing damaged threads or creating new fastening points in fabricated components. Its robust construction minimizes the dreaded risk of tap breakage inside a workpiece, saving time and preventing costly part scrappage.