Drilling and tapping are two basic operations that are performed on a wide variety of machining centers. The two operations rely on different machines, tools, and procedures to accomplish their tasks. Both are excellent examples of how to shape a piece of metal into its desired shape and are often used for many different purposes.
Drilling is the most common machining operation and it is used to create a hole in a piece of metal. The process of drilling requires the use of a drill bit that is attached to a drill press or drill machine. The bit rotates about its axis, guided by a pilot drill, as it moves through the metal. The shape of the hole is determined by the type and shape of the drill bit used. Traditionally, drilling involved the use of cutting fluids and lubricants, however modern drilling operations often use air pressure and jets of air to reduce friction and improve the accuracy of the machining operation.
Tapping is the second most common machining operation and it uses a tool commonly referred to as a tap. It is generally used to create a thread in a hole, although special taps are available for creating internal and external threads. The tap is equipped with a cutting edge and consists of two wings, called flutes, which disengage and allow the cutting edge to make contact with the workpiece. When the flutes come into contact with the material, they create a hole and form a thread as it is withdrawn from the hole. The degree of thread angle, its length, and the type of material it is made from can all be specified when ordering taps.
Both drilling and tapping are essential machining operations. While each operation is used for different purposes, both are vital for machining a wide variety of materials. By understanding the different procedures, tools, and machines associated with each process, you can determine the best approach for your particular machining application. As a result, you can reduce production costs by ensuring that your machining operation is as efficient and accurate as possible.
