RS PRO Tap Set, M12 Thread

Introducing the RS PRO left-handed thread hand tap set. This high-quality set features all the essential pieces of equipment and accessories needed to successfully clean or cut new threads on fasteners, holes and much more. The HSS (High-Speed Steel) material makes it easier to cut harder materials with precision and efficiency, so this set is ideal for the professional craftsman or general engineering and automotive applications.

• This left-handed hand tap set from RS PRO is ideal for cleaning and repairing damaged or corroded threads
• The HSS construction of the pieces in the set allows for easy and clean cutting into metals, as well as durability and longer tool life
• This tools in this set offers all the tools needed for intermediate tapping
• The taps can be used with a tap wrench or power tool depending on the application (not included in the set and must be purchased separately)
• Each piece is labelled in the convenient case to allow for quick identification of the right parts and helps locate any missing pieces
• All the pieces in this set are neatly stored within a metal storage case for easy transportation and protection to ensure they do not rust or corrode

Tap and die sets are an essential kit to have available if a fastener or fastener hole is threaded and then rendered unusable. By using a tap and die kit, a new thread can be cut, or a damaged thread repaired, especially if it has threaded or has a lot of corrosion on it from years’ worth of build-up. A tap and die set generally consists of the tap and the die. The tap is designed for internal thread cutting, so this would be used on the fastener hole or a nut, whereas a die is used for the external thread, like on a bolt. Sets like these are most commonly used for:
• Automotive applications and repair
• General maintenance workshops
• DIY
• Machinery repair

Depending on the type of tap being used and the applications, many can be used with a tap wrench or power tool. For smooth and precise thread cutting, a wrench tool is more suitable, whereas a power tool is suited to rapid thread cutting. Once attached, the hand tap can be rotated to cut the thread in the required material.

Tapping and threading are the processes that are used to produce screw threads. Tapping uses the tap part of the set and creates internal threads. Threading is the process used by the die to cut external threads.

By choosing a HSS tap and die set, you can be sure that you are selecting the most durable and hardy material to ensure you are achieving a quality result every time. HSS has a higher abrasion resistance and can also withstand higher temperatures without losing its durability and hardiness, making it ideal for continuous use. It also cuts faster when working with stubborn materials and lasts longer.

• Second Taps M3 to M12
• Metal storage case

ISO Metric

Introducing RS PRO 7 piece HSS spiral flute thread tap set, a selection of high quality and professional threading taps ideal for cutting thread (tapping) by hand or machine, into drilled holes in materials such as metal and wood.

Our range of thread taps from RS PRO are manufactured using high speed steel (HSS), providing excellent durability and corrosion resistance properties. This versatile set includes taps in metric thread sizes M3 to M12, each with a 7° lead angle ensuring gradual and precise tapping. Also included is a durable storage box, ensuring protection when not in use.

• 7 piece set including thread sizes M3, M4, M5, M6, M8, M10, M12
• Ideal for hand or machine use depending on the application
• Manufactured from HSS for durability and heat resistance
• 7° lead angle for gradual and precise tapping
• ISO standards met
• Durable storage box included

Threading taps are a type of tool use for cutting thread (tapping) into a pre-drilled hole, to create a clean fitting for bolts and other materials to attach to steel rods and more. Threading taps work by cutting away material to produce a thread when turned. Threading taps can be used with a tap wrench or power tool and are available in various sizes to accommodate a range of applications. They are commonly used in areas such as:

• Construction
• DIY
• Plumbing
• Workshops
• Renovations

This set does not include a tap wrench, however, we do offer a suitable tap wrench via stock no. 424-1126.

An acronym for High-speed steel, HSS is generally the go-to type of steel needed for drill bits due to their excellent heat resistance at high speeds. As a standard drill can spin upwards of around 500 - 700rpm, the friction can cause a substantial build-up of heat. Something which would not be wanted when working with wood and plastic.

The four most popular ones are:

Straight Flute Taps: most commonly used type of tap and suitable for blind or though hole thread production in most materials, mainly steel and cast iron. These collect chips in the straight flutes of the tool
Spiral Point Taps: suitable for threading through holes. They push chips through holes ahead of the tool
Spiral Flute Taps: intended primarily for threading blind holes. They pull chips back from the tip of the tool and up and out of the hole.
Forming Taps: produce a thread by pressing the material rather than cutting and no chips are created.

It is recommended that lubrication is regularly applied to taps and dies when in use, to allow for friction free threading with precision. This will ensure that a clean thread is achieved with minimal damage.

A tap set is used to create or repair threads in holes which is ideal for things such as nuts and fittings, this process is called tapping. Dies are used to cut threads on materials such as steel rods to allow a fitting to be screwed on and attached, this is called threading.

M3/M4/M5/M6/M10/M12