tapping aluminum

[msomerville]

I would form tap with coolant as a lubricant. If you don't want to form tap definitely get away from a 4 flute tap.

[fpworks]

Machine coolant works fine for form tapping.

For parts with small holes and fine threads (like M3 or 2-56), I will increase the concentration from 5% to about 8%. Anything larger and 5% is fine.

[dertsap]

spiral flt or roll , any straight flt will bunch up ,use coolant , the only time you would need oil or paste when working with aluminum would be with some castings or other really soft sticky material

[handlewanker]

Hi fourperf, if you're through tapping then it's spiral point you should be using, and coolant, or soluble oil is Ok.
Spiral flute taps are weaker and should only be used for blind hole tapping to get the swarf out.
Ian.

[tmt_92021]

How do you rigid tap with a form tap? I've never done it but want to try it. As for the taping fluid? Try using Moly-dee taping fluid, my favorite.