Tapping Machines

Tapping machine for batches of threads

A tapping machine feeds the tap at a rate equal to the thread pitch and reverses the spindle to back the tap out. The operator does not push on the tap, so threads come out even and taps break less often. This matters when there are dozens or hundreds of threads per shift.

The specialised GL series. The MAXION BT 18 GL and MAXION BS 18 GL cut M3–M10 threads at up to 1000 threads per hour, with 4 speeds of 320–1600 rpm; the BS is the column version. The MAXION UNIMAX 3 GL covers M4–M20 with 9 speeds. The MAXION BT 36 GL and MAXION BS 36 GL cover M5–M30 with 5 speeds in two ranges. The MAXION H 15 GL is a horizontal version for M3–M10. On the BT 18 GL, UNIMAX 3 GL, BT 36 GL and H 15 GL a lead screw sets the pitch.

The TAP models are drilling machines with a tapping function: the MAXION UNIMAX 1 TAP for M8, the MAXION UNIMAX 2 TAP for M16 in S235 steel and the MAXION UNIMAX 3 TAP for M20. One machine makes both the hole and the thread.

MAXION MAXTAP is a programmable system for M1–M18 and 45–75 mm depth. It monitors depth and torque and detects defective threads during the cycle. Besides cutting, it forms threads, installs thread inserts and checks finished threads.

For drilling together with threads up to M45, see column drilling machines; the GL and TAP heads fit the MAXION BRK multi-station units. General selection criteria are on the drilling machines.