Tapping .040in polycarbonite.

[C.Phipps]

Hey guys, new here, and have a quick question. we are manufacturing a part that requires 2 holes both .0625in in diameter to be tapped. we are currently using a hand tapping chuck and it is a time consuming process as we are shipping 900 parts a week. Any suggestions other than a tapping collet for the router itself. thanks in advance.

[keebler303]

get a tapping head for a drill press, something from tapmatic with auto-reverse would probably speed things up. I have also just used a cordless drill for lots of aluminum stuff, not sure if it will work for you or not.

Matt

[1%biker]

Hi
You really do need a auto tapping collet, good quality and sharp taps to take on this work load. You must keep an eye on the sharpness of your drills and taps, if you lose the edge on either the polycarb will chip. I have found a cold air blast is very helpful with chip removal and tool cooling (very important with plastics). With these quantities it is well worth the expense of buying the right tools for the job. Speeds and feeds are paramount, check with your tool supplier as minor miscalculations can be devestating. I use Onsrud tooling for all of my work load (Aerospace) and have found them exellent and their tech support is great.
Hope this help you.

1%biker

[C.Phipps]

Thanks for the quick replies, I use all onsrud tooling as well. and ive been searching for a tapping collet. Now i dont have my tooling catalog infront of me right now, so ill ask you, do you know if onsrud makes a tapping chuck? our machine takes ER32 collets. and its an onsrud panelmate

[1%biker]

Hi
I believe Onsrud do make a tapping head. How do you find the Panelmate? I'm trying to persuade my boss to buy us a C series machine. Would be interested to hear how good/bad the machine and Osai controller is.

1%Biker