Although hand tapping threads occasionally is fine, there are a number of jobs which simply eat time. A powered tapping machine for such work can be very effective on your workshop floor.
High-Volume Repeat Tapping
When working in large quantities (dozens or even hundreds) of the same type of hole, the work can be completed much faster using a powered tapping machine. The tapping process is completed in a few seconds as opposed to half a minute or more when using hand tapping.
Confined and Overhead Locations
A powered tapping machine offers enormous advantages when taps need to be inserted into recessed panels or overhead work. Unlike a tap wrench which has to be withdrawn manually after every tap, a tapping machine arm can be withdrawn easily with the aid of a cam.
Mixed Material Batches
In turn, when you are dealing with mixed materials (steel, aluminium, cast parts), speed change is usually a matter of a few seconds, which is done by hand by changing a few settings, whereas adjusting to a new material by hand would take longer, as well as being less accurate.
Cutting Rework From Broken or Cross-Threaded Taps
Rework due to cutting errors such as cross-threading or breaking can be far greater than the value of the item being machined. The built-in torque limiting clutch means that should the tap start to break the clutch will disengage and the reverse function activated to extract the tap quickly and safely. For Roscamat Tapping Machines, see cotswold-machinery-sales.co.uk/roscamat-tapping-machines/.
It’s surprising how many different parts of your workshop a Roscamat powered tapping machine can add value to. If you find yourself frequently in a number of these situations then powered tapping could be a very cost effective improvement for your workshop.