Tapping machines thread or drill holes in plastic, metal, glass and other threaded compounds. Industrial tapping units can handle multiple blanks in both vertical and horizontal models. Pneumatic tapping machines can do long bore tapping for use in firearms and precision drilling for jewelry and calibration equipment.

Tapping machine manufacturers provide solutions in two, three and four fluted machines as well as helical-pointed tips. Tapping machines calibrate to the materials drilled and come in lengths from 6 inches to 60 inches depending on the requirements of the job. Tapping machine suppliers carry models for drill press bench and vise tapping to meet the unique needs of each client. When looking at tapping machines for sale consider the following:

1. Use auto-feeding tapping machines in high production applications for higher precision and lower labor costs.

2. Improve productivity with flexible arm tapping machines that leverage labor between cycles.

3. Save money by buying liquidated or refurbished equipment.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Get faster production and higher precision with automatic tapping units

An automatic tapping unit is capable of loading blanks and drilling with minimal human assistance. Promoted by tapping machine manufacturers for their ability to machine a large number of parts at one time, these tapping machines designed for high volume production really deliver. Many include the capability of drilling to more than one specification on a single pass with impressive accuracy.

I recommend: Watch a demo of the precision drilling machines manufactured by Universal-Automatic Corporation, a company pioneering automated tapping technology. Look at Republic Lagun Machine Tool Co. for tapping machines and a helpful comparison of current models and options.

Flexible arm tapping machines let employees combine drilling and assembly duties

Time between assembly cycles is often wasted. Tapping machine distributors have found a simple solution with tapping units mounted to swinging arms to allow employees to work on tapping projects during routine down time. Long assembly cycles provide time to increase production without the need for additional space or employees.

I recommend: Midwest Specialties, Inc., FlexArm line of products install quickly and handle a multitude of tapping applications. Hutchison Tool Sales, Inc. offers free CAD files, design instructions and pricing on a CD to provide assistance in selecting assembly mounted tapping units.

Buy from used or refurbished tapping machine suppliers and save money

Buying used or refurbished tapping machines from a reputable tapping machine manufacturer or distributor makes sense and allows you to install more machine for less money. Rebuilt and tested to higher quality standards, refurbished machines have a long life cycle and full manufacturers' warranty in many cases. Tapping drills are easily adapted through interchangeable heads.

I recommend: Automation Associates, Inc. specializes in used tapping machines from all major manufacturers and provides information about tapping machines to fit your needs. Finding the right used machine can be difficult, but MachineTools.com uses a simple international tool to connect buyer and sellers of tapping units and other machinery.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Tapping machines come in electric and pneumatic models that perform equally well in most applications. Consult with a professional when comparing the capabilities and strengths of each tapping machine style.