03B053 - Walter 5/16-18 NC HSS Bottoming Tap for Blind Holes

Precision Threading for Blind Holes

The Walter 03B053 5/16"-18 NC Bottoming Tap is a premium-grade threading tool designed for the most demanding industrial applications. Manufactured from high-quality High-Speed Steel (HSS), this tap is engineered to withstand the high temperatures and stresses associated with cutting threads in tough materials like stainless steel, mild steel, and aluminum. Unlike standard taper or plug taps, a bottoming tap features a very short chamfer length of just 1 to 2 threads. This specific geometry makes it the essential tool for threading blind holes—holes that do not go all the way through the workpiece—allowing you to cut threads as close to the bottom of the hole as mechanically possible.

Precision is paramount in threading operations, and Walter delivers with threads that are precision ground rather than cut. This manufacturing process ensures tighter tolerances and a smoother surface finish on the threads you create, reducing friction and the likelihood of binding. The tap has been hardened and tempered to provide the optimal balance between hardness for cutting capability and toughness to resist snapping under torque. Whether you are fabricating new components or repairing stripped threads in critical machinery, this tool provides the reliability professional machinists and fabricators require.

Using the correct tap style is crucial for efficiency. Typically, a bottoming tap is used as the final step in a sequence, often following a taper or plug tap which removes the bulk of the material with less torque. However, in softer materials or shallow holes, the Walter 03B053 can be used directly if care is taken. Its robust design ensures it maintains its cutting edge longer than carbon steel alternatives, making it a cost-effective choice for production environments. Pair this tap with a high-quality cutting fluid or lubricant to further extend its life and ensure the cleanest possible thread profile.

Key Technical Benefits

The choice of High-Speed Steel over standard carbon steel means this tap retains its hardness even at elevated temperatures, allowing for faster tapping speeds without compromising the tool's integrity. The 5/16"-18 NC (National Coarse) thread size is a standard industrial fastening specification, making this tool a versatile addition to any tool and die set. The shank is designed to fit securely in standard tap handles and collets, preventing slippage during high-torque operations.