Walter 5/16-18 NC HSS Taper Tap for Steel and Stainless

Reliable Threading Solutions for Metal Fabrication

For professional welders and fabricators, the Walter 5/16"-18 NC Taper Tap is a must-have tool for finishing and assembly tasks. Fabrication often involves more than just joining metal; it requires preparing parts for final assembly, which frequently includes creating threaded holes for bolts and fasteners. The Walter 03B051 is built to withstand the tough environment of a welding shop, where materials range from soft aluminum to work-hardened stainless steel. Constructed from superior High Speed Steel (HSS), this tap cuts aggressively yet stays cool, maintaining its hardness even when subjected to the heat and friction of threading tough alloys.

The taper chamfer design is specifically advantageous for fabricators working on custom builds. When tapping a hole by hand, starting the thread straight is the biggest challenge. The long tapered lead of this tap acts as a guide, allowing for easier entry into the hole and requiring less initial torque to begin the cut. This is ideal for "through holes" in plates, brackets, and structural beams. If you are working on a project that requires bolting components together after welding, having a reliable tap that won't dull halfway through the job is essential for maintaining productivity.

Walter Surface Technologies is a brand synonymous with performance in the metalworking industry. This tap lives up to that reputation by delivering clean, precise Class 2B threads that ensure fasteners fit smoothly and securely. The precision-ground flutes are designed to evacuate chips efficiently, preventing clogging that can mar the thread finish. Whether you are tapping a new hole in a custom bracket or cleaning up threads that have been distorted by welding heat or spatter, the Walter 5/16"-18 NC Taper Tap provides the control and durability needed to get the job done right the first time.

Fabricator Benefits

• Durability: HSS construction resists dulling on stainless steel weldments.
• Ease of Use: Tapered lead helps align the tap for straight threads by hand.
• Versatility: Effective on a wide variety of base metals found in fab shops.