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03B062 - Walter 3/8-16 NC HSS Plug Tap for Through Holes

Packaging: 3 per each
$25.40/ea

Package Price:

$76.20/3 per each

Usually ships within 3-5 business days

SKU: 03B062 Categories: ,

OVERVIEW

Precision Threading with Walter High Speed Steel Taps

The Walter 03B062 3/8-16NC Plug Tap is a premium-grade threading tool designed for industrial professionals who demand accuracy and longevity. Manufactured from top-tier High Speed Steel (HSS), this tap is engineered to cut threads with exceptional precision. Unlike standard carbon steel taps that dull quickly, Walter's HSS composition ensures the cutting edges remain sharp even after repeated use in tough materials like stainless steel and mild steel. The tap features precision-ground threads, a manufacturing process that guarantees tighter tolerances and smoother cutting action compared to cut-thread alternatives.

This specific model is a "Plug" style tap, characterized by a chamfer of 3 to 5 threads. This geometry makes it the most versatile choice for general tapping operations, particularly for through holes where the chips can be pushed forward or where threading to the very bottom of a blind hole is not required. The plug chamfer allows for easier starting than a bottoming tap while cutting full threads closer to the bottom than a taper tap. It is an essential tool for machinists and fabricators looking to create clean, Class 2B fit threads.

Durability is at the core of Walter's design philosophy. The 03B062 is specially hardened and tempered to resist the torsional stresses encountered during tapping. This heat treatment process reduces the risk of tap breakage—a common and costly issue in metalworking. Whether used by hand with a tap wrench or in a machine setup, this tool delivers consistent performance. It is suitable for a wide range of materials, including aluminum, non-ferrous metals, and various grades of steel, making it a versatile addition to any tool crib.

Invest in tools that reduce downtime and scrap. The Walter 3/8-16NC Plug Tap offers the reliability needed for critical maintenance, repair, and operations (MRO) tasks as well as production environments. Its superior chip evacuation and reduced friction design minimize heat buildup, ensuring the integrity of both the tool and the workpiece.

Additional Information
Packaging Description:1 per each, 3 per each
Brand:Walter
Thread Size:3/8"-16 NC
Tap Style:Plug Tap
Material:High Speed Steel (HSS)
Thread Standard:National Coarse (NC)
Chamfer Length:3-5 Threads

INCLUDED

  • 1 x Walter 3/8"-16 NC High Speed Steel Plug Tap
  • Protective packaging

APPLICATIONS

  • Creating new 3/8"-16 NC threads in drilled holes
  • Repairing or cleaning up damaged threads
  • Tapping through-holes in metal plates and castings
  • Machining mild steel, stainless steel, and aluminum
  • General maintenance and assembly work
  • Automotive and machinery repair

FAQ

A plug tap has a chamfer of 3-5 threads, making it suitable for through holes or general use. A taper tap has a longer chamfer (7-10 threads) for easier starting, while a bottoming tap has a very short chamfer (1-2 threads) for threading to the bottom of a blind hole.

For a standard 3/8"-16 NC thread, the recommended drill bit size is typically 5/16" (or 8.0mm) to achieve approximately 75% thread height.

Yes, this Walter tap is made from High Speed Steel (HSS) and is hardened and tempered, making it suitable for tapping stainless steel as well as mild steel and aluminum.

This HSS plug tap can be used for both hand tapping (with a tap wrench) and machine tapping applications, provided the speed and alignment are correctly managed.

NC stands for 'National Coarse,' which refers to the thread pitch standard. 3/8-16 indicates a 3/8-inch diameter with 16 threads per inch.

Yes, using a high-quality cutting fluid or tapping compound is highly recommended to reduce friction, clear chips, and extend the life of the tap, especially in harder metals.

Ground threads are manufactured to tighter tolerances, providing greater accuracy and a smoother surface finish, which results in better quality threads and less wear on the tool.