Taps and Drill Bit Kit


  • Individual Imperial & Metric Plug Taps
  • 60-Piece Drill Bit Kit
  • Tap Guides Help Ensure Tapped Holes are
    Perpendicular to Flat Surfaces

TTT001

Tap Guide for Optical Tables and Breadboards

TAP1480

1/4"-80 Tap

TW25

Tap Wrench

DK3

60-Piece Drill Bit Kit

Related Items


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Click to Enlarge

The TAPSM1 Imperial Tap for Tapping Thorlabs' SM1 Standard Threads

Click to Enlarge

The TAPSM05 Imperial Tap for Tapping Thorlabs' SM05 Standard Threads

Features

  • Wide Selection of Plug Taps Including Thorlabs' SM05 (0.535"-40) and SM1 (1.035"-40) Standards
  • Drill Kit Includes 60 Drill Bits in an Embossed Steel Case
  • Universal Tap Wrench is an Essential Tool for Custom Applications
  • Table and Breadboard Tapping Guide for Repairing Damaged Tapped Holes

The items on this webpage can be used to add taps in user-selected locations and repair damaged tapped holes on breadboards and optical tables.

Threading Specifications

The following is a general overview of screw threading. For more details regarding specifications and dimensions, please consult the Machinery's Handbook, available for purchase at many bookstores.

Features of a Thread
A thread consists of three repeating features: a crest, flank, and root (see drawing to the right). Except in special cases, threads have symmetrical sides inclined at equal angles when a vertical line is drawn through the center of a crest or root. The distance between corresponding points on adjacent threads is known as the pitch of the thread. The flank angle is defined as the angle the flank makes with a perpendicular ray drawn from the screw axis. Unless otherwise stated, threads have a flank angle of 30°, resulting in a total angle between flanks of 60°. Each feature is shown in the diagram to the right.

The major diameter is taken from the crests of a thread while the minor diameter is taken from the roots. For most screws, crests and roots do not terminate at a sharp point, so crest and root truncation values are included in the definitions of major and minor diameter. The pitch diameter is approximately halfway between the major and minor diameters.

Thread Form
A thread form is a set of rules that define the features' scale relative to one another. Common thread forms include the Unified Screw Thread Form, used in the United States of America and measured in imperial units, and the ISO Metric Screw Thread Form, used in many parts of the world and measured with the International System of Units. There are many thread forms in the Unified screw thread standard designated by either UN, which defines a flat root contour, or UNR, which defines a round root contour. These can be further described by appending more letters. For example, an extremely fine thread with a flat root contour is designated UNEF. Those forms which are not standardized by the Unified screw thread system are designated UNS.

Thread Series
Most screws are identified by their thread series. Thread series are denoted by the major diameter and density of threads. Unified threads specify density in threads per inch, while Metric threads specify the thread pitch. For example, in the Unified nomenclature, a 1/4"-20 cap screw has a 1/4" diameter barrel and the pitch is 20 threads per inch (TPI). In metric nomenclature, an M4 x 0.7 cap screw has a 4 mm barrel and the pitch is 1 thread per 0.7 mm. The term M4 x 0.7 is often shortened to just M4.

Unified Thread Class Tolerancing
Location Loose Optimal Strict
Internal 1B 2B 3B
External 1A 2A 3A
Metric Thread Tolerance Positions
Location Loose Optimal Strict
Internal - G H
External e or f g h
Metric Thread Tolerance Grades
Dimension Location Tolerance Gradesa
Minor Diameter Internal 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Major Diameter External 4, 6, 8
Pitch Diameter Internal 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
External 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
  • The tolerance becomes looser as the grade increases. The underlined grades are used with normal lengths of thread engagement.

Thread Class
The tolerances and allowances on a thread series are given by a thread class. Unified thread classes are alphanumeric identifiers starting with a number from 1 through 3, where 1 is the loosest tolerance and 3 is the tightest, and either A for external threading or B for internal threading.

Metric threads have a slightly more complex tolerancing method that uses tolerancing grades, designated by a number 3 through 9; and tolerancing positions, which use letters e through h. Grades provide a measure of the tolerance itself: the smaller the number, the tighter the tolerance. Positions denote the distance of the tolerance from the pitch diameter. Uppercase positioning letters indicate internal threads while lowercase positioning letters indicate external threads.

Quoting from the Machinery's Handbook, 29th Edition, p. 1885: "To designate the tolerance class, the grade and position of the pitch diameter is shown first followed by that for the major diameter in the case of the external thread or that for the minor diameter in the case of the internal thread, thus 4g6g for an external thread and 5H6H for an internal thread. If the two grades and positions are identical, it is not necessary to repeat the symbols, thus 4g, alone, stands for 4g4g and 5H, alone, stands for 5H5H."

Thorlabs' SM Series Threads
Threading specifications for our SM threads, utilized in our lens tube and cage system components, are given below so that you can machine mating components to suit your application. Most SM series threads utilize a non-standard Unified thread form, indicated by the letters UNS, with a 30° flank angle and a thread class of 2A and 2B. The exception is our SM30 series thread, which is a Metric thread form with a 30° flank angle and a tolerance of 6H/6g. We also offer products with C-Mount and RMS threads, and the specifications for these threads are given below for reference. Please note that other manufacturers may have different tolerances for C-Mount and RMS threads. For other thread specifications that are not listed here, please contact Tech Support.

SM05 Threading: Ø1/2" Lens Tubes, 16 mm Cage Systems
External Thread, 0.535"-40.0 UNS-2A Internal Thread, 0.535"-40.0 UNS-2B
Max Major Diameter 0.5340" Min Major Diameter 0.5350"
Min Major Diameter 0.5289" Min Pitch Diameter 0.5188"
Max Pitch Diameter 0.5178" Max Pitch Diameter 0.5230"
Min Pitch Diameter 0.5146" Min Minor Diameter (and 83.3% of Thread) 0.508"
Max Minor Diameter 0.5069" Max Minor Diameter (and 64.9% of Thread) 0.514"
RMS Threading: Objective, Scan, and Tube Lenses
External Thread, 0.800"-36.0 UNS-2A Internal Thread, 0.800"-36.0 UNS-2B
Max Major Diameter 0.7989" Min Major Diameter 0.8000"
Min Major Diameter 0.7934" Min Pitch Diameter 0.7820"
Max Pitch Diameter 0.7809" Max Pitch Diameter 0.7866"
Min Pitch Diameter 0.7774" Min Minor Diameter (and 83.3% of Thread) 0.770"
Max Minor Diameter 0.7688" Max Minor Diameter (and 64.9% of Thread) 0.777"
C-Mount Threading: Machine Vision Lenses, CCD/CMOS Cameras
External Thread, 1.000"-32.0 UN-2A Internal Thread, 1.000"-32.0 UN-2B
Max Major Diameter 0.9989" Min Major Diameter 1.0000"
Min Major Diameter 0.9929" Min Pitch Diameter 0.9797"
Max Pitch Diameter 0.9786" Max Pitch Diameter 0.9846"
Min Pitch Diameter 0.9748" Min Minor Diameter (and 83.3% of Thread) 0.966"
Max Minor Diameter 0.9651" Max Minor Diameter (and 64.9% of Thread) 0.974"
SM1 Threading: Ø1" Lens Tubes, 30 mm Cage Systems
External Thread, 1.035"-40.0 UNS-2A Internal Thread, 1.035"-40.0 UNS-2B
Max Major Diameter 1.0339" Min Major Diameter 1.0350"
Min Major Diameter 1.0288" Min Pitch Diameter 1.0188"
Max Pitch Diameter 1.0177" Max Pitch Diameter 1.0234"
Min Pitch Diameter 1.0142" Min Minor Diameter (and 83.3% of Thread) 1.008"
Max Minor Diameter 1.0068" Max Minor Diameter (and 64.9% of Thread) 1.014"
SM30 Threading: Ø30 mm Lens Tubes
External Thread, M30.5 x 0.5 – 6H/6g Internal Thread, M30.5 x 0.5 – 6H/6g
Max Major Diameter 30.480 mm Min Major Diameter 30.500 mm
Min Major Diameter 30.371 mm Min Pitch Diameter 30.175 mm
Max Pitch Diameter 30.155 mm Max Pitch Diameter 30.302 mm
Min Pitch Diameter 30.059 mm Min Minor Diameter (and 83.3% of Thread) 29.959 mm
Max Minor Diameter 29.938 mm Max Minor Diameter (and 64.9% of Thread) 30.094 mm
SM1.5 Threading: Ø1.5" Lens Tubes
External Thread, 1.535"-40 UNS-2A Internal Thread, 1.535"-40 UNS-2B
Max Major Diameter 1.5339" Min Major Diameter 1.535"
Min Major Diameter 1.5288" Min Pitch Diameter 1.5188"
Max Pitch Diameter 1.5177" Max Pitch Diameter 1.5236"
Min Pitch Diameter 1.5140" Min Minor Diameter (and 83.3% of Thread) 1.508"
Max Minor Diameter 1.5068" Max Minor Diameter (and 64.9% of Thread) 1.514"
SM2 Threading: Ø2" Lens Tubes, 60 mm Cage Systems
External Thread, 2.035"-40.0 UNS-2A Internal Thread, 2.035"-40.0 UNS-2B
Max Major Diameter 2.0338" Min Major Diameter 2.0350"
Min Major Diameter 2.0287" Min Pitch Diameter 2.0188"
Max Pitch Diameter 2.0176" Max Pitch Diameter 2.0239"
Min Pitch Diameter 2.0137" Min Minor Diameter (and 83.3% of Thread) 2.008"
Max Minor Diameter 2.0067" Max Minor Diameter (and 64.9% of Thread) 2.014"
SM3 Threading: Ø3" Lens Tubes
External Thread, 3.035"-40.0 UNS-2A Internal Thread, 3.035"-40.0 UNS-2B
Max Major Diameter 3.0337" Min Major Diameter 3.0350"
Min Major Diameter 3.0286" Min Pitch Diameter 3.0188"
Max Pitch Diameter 3.0175" Max Pitch Diameter 3.0242"
Min Pitch Diameter 3.0133" Min Minor Diameter (and 83.3% of Thread) 3.008"
Max Minor Diameter 3.0066" Max Minor Diameter (and 64.9% of Thread) 3.014"
SM4 Threading: Ø4" Lens Tubes
External Thread, 4.035"-40 UNS-2A Internal Thread, 4.035"-40.0 UNS-2B
Max Major Diameter 4.0337" Min Major Diameter 4.0350"
Min Major Diameter 4.0286" Min Pitch Diameter 4.0188"
Max Pitch Diameter 4.0175" Max Pitch Diameter 4.0245"
Min Pitch Diameter 4.0131" Min Minor Diameter (and 83.3% of Thread) 4.008"
Max Minor Diameter 4.0066" Max Minor Diameter (and 64.9% of Thread) 4.014"

Posted Comments:
user  (posted 2024-05-13 21:30:09.42)
What is the distance from the bottom of the sm05 tap to the first full thread?
cdolbashian  (posted 2024-05-24 09:55:56.0)
As the taper on the threads are approximately 5-6 threads deep and the thread pitch is ~.635mm. As such the first full thread starts at around 3-4mm. I have contacted you directly to discuss your application and your need for a perhaps-more-specific value.
Kyle Douglass  (posted 2024-03-28 08:32:33.53)
Hello! Would you also happen to sell dies for creating SM1 external threads? I've only been able to find taps on your website. Many thanks.
jdelia  (posted 2024-03-28 01:08:31.0)
Thank you for contacting Thorlabs. We unfortunately do not currently offer dies as part of our catalog. I have reached out to you directly to discuss alternative vendors.
chua ss  (posted 2023-10-26 15:51:12.683)
Dear Sir/Madam, Kindly quote us the current price and the shipping charges as below ; 1. MACHINE TAP (THOR) PO 0.535" X 40 Q’ty : 5pcs Your prompt reply on the above mentioned is highly appreciated. Thanks and Regards. S.S. Chua (Ms) Purchase Coordinator Creative Precision Engineering Sdn. Bhd. [CO. NO :199101017821 (228132-T)] 32, Lorong IKS Juru 3, IKS Juru, 14100 Simpang Ampat, Penang, Malaysia. Tel : 604-5071330, Ext : 120 H/P : +012-5681921 Email : pur02@creative-pe.com
jdelia  (posted 2023-10-26 02:45:19.0)
Thank you for contacting Thorlabs. You may request a quote for the TAPSM05 by reaching out to your local sales team at sales@thorlabs.com or 973-300-3000, or by adding the item to your shopping cart directly on the website.
Maxwell Lightstone  (posted 2023-02-01 17:02:56.033)
Can you sell a 25.75 mm drill bit to go with the SM1 tap? There isn't a good way to drill those holes right now, and we don't always want to use a lathe or a mill. Best regards, Maxwell Lightstone, MASc Mechanical Engineer
jdelia  (posted 2023-02-03 03:04:51.0)
Thank you for your feedback. We unfortunately do not offer a drill bit for SM1 taps as we typically suggest milling out a pilot bore. I have contacted you directly to discuss your application and the possibility of offering this in the future.
Ahn Chang-Joon  (posted 2023-01-14 23:41:30.687)
I found the tool Tapsm1 for SM1 Internal Thread here. However, no tools can be found for the SM1 External Thread. Can I purchase a tool for this? If possible, please reply to mertul@kit-fa.com
jdelia  (posted 2023-01-17 04:30:58.0)
Thank you for contacting Thorlabs. I have reached out to you directly to discuss your application as well as methods that will allow you to cut external SM1 threads.
Enrico Renna  (posted 2022-08-03 14:31:43.523)
Hello, would it be possible to buy a tap for SM18 thread ? We still have some issue to produce something that would function with the SM18RR. I couldn't find it on the webpage. Thank you very much!
jdelia  (posted 2022-08-03 03:02:30.0)
Thank you for contacting Thorlabs. We will reach out to you directly regarding the possibility of quoting this out to you as a custom part.
Evgeny Rozemblit  (posted 2021-12-20 06:15:41.993)
Hello, Need your help, do you know where I can find the GO-NOT GO gauge for 0.800"x36 thread?
jgreschler  (posted 2021-12-23 10:46:46.0)
Thank you for reaching out to Thorlabs. I have reached out to you directly to discuss this further.
user  (posted 2021-08-11 11:36:02.887)
It would be helpful if both bottoming and plug taps were offered for the SM05 and SM1 threads. The plug tap with the tapered threading doesn't work well on shallow depth holes.
cdolbashian  (posted 2021-08-27 11:10:48.0)
Thank you for your suggestion! As we are hungry for feedback, we will look into the potential availability of this product as a stock option in the future.
user  (posted 2021-04-12 03:34:23.157)
Hi, does Thorlabs sell M38 x 0.5 taps to accommodate the thread of the TTL-200 tube lens? I need to use that lens directly in a custom mount that is too small for the SM2 thread of the TTL200-A or the adapter.
YLohia  (posted 2021-04-12 04:42:49.0)
Hello, custom taps can be requested by clicking on the "Request Quote" button above or by contacting your local Thorlabs Tech Support team (in your case, techsupport.se@thorlabs.com). We will discuss the possibility of offering this directly.
Frank Seifert  (posted 2019-11-05 12:56:04.46)
Hi, it is great that Thorlabs offers a lot of the special taps (metric & imperial) to allow the customer to do their own adapters. However I'm missing the M15.5 x 0.5 tap for the SM15RR. Is it possible to purchase a M15.5 x 0.5 tap? Thanks!
llamb  (posted 2019-11-06 09:49:47.0)
Thank you for your feedback! Custom taps can be requested by clicking the red "Request Quote" button above or emailing techsupport@thorlabs.com. I have reached out to you directly in this case to discuss this possibility.
Chris Betters  (posted 2019-04-08 04:44:40.833)
Can you provide a tap for SMA threads (1/4-32)? Thanks Chris
YLohia  (posted 2019-04-09 03:13:43.0)
Hello Chris, thank you for contacting Thorlabs. Custom taps can be requested by clicking the red "Request Quote" button above or emailing techsupport@thorlabs.com. We will reach out to discuss your requirements.
ghovorka  (posted 2019-01-16 09:57:30.87)
It would be very useful to have a tap for M10.5x0.5 threads. It is a great size for mounting 10mm OD optics with the SM10RR retaining ring, but can't be used as easily for custom mounts without a tap available.
llamb  (posted 2019-01-17 12:02:50.0)
Thank you for your feedback. I have added this idea into our internal product forum for further discussion. We can currently offer the M10.5 x 0.5 plug tap as a special item. I have reached out to you by email directly to discuss this special quote.
kitchinsf  (posted 2018-10-24 16:12:02.7)
It would be helpful to offer a tap guide for ensuring perpendicular taps to the work surface. Since the SM05, SM1, and SM2 are not very common outside of Thor, a tap guide that includes these (at least the SM05 and SM1, SM2 is a bit too large) it would be very helpful. The table tap guide is very useful but is limited in its functionality.
llamb  (posted 2018-11-05 10:48:40.0)
Thank you for your feedback. Tap guides like the TTT001(/M) typically need a flat reference plane like an optical table to fix to first. Most optomechanical parts with SM- threads are rounded or cylindrical, making it difficult to create a standardized tapping guide that fits to all components. We do not recommend hand-tapping these larger threads, but instead recommend using a type of drill press with a clutch for reversing the tap out of the threads.
wenzel.jakob  (posted 2017-12-02 22:26:07.137)
I'm also interested in a tap for SM2 threads. Could you please provide me with a quote? Thank you.
tfrisch  (posted 2017-12-05 01:54:35.0)
Hello, thank you for contacting Thorlabs. We will reach out to you with a quote for an SM2 tap.
pierrick.cheiney  (posted 2017-06-21 13:57:27.263)
Hello, I cannot find a tap for the SM2 threads. Would it be possible to get one? Thanks,
tfrisch  (posted 2017-06-27 11:19:36.0)
Hello, thank you for contacting Thorlabs. We will reach out to you with a quote.
user  (posted 2017-03-15 08:46:56.48)
What tapping depth can each tap achieve?! This is key info that needs to be added to this webpage. Also of interest are: overall length, shank diameter.
tcampbell  (posted 2017-03-23 01:55:10.0)
Response from Tim at Thorlabs: thank you for your feedback. We have added the thread depth and overall length of each tap to the webpage.
ludoangot  (posted 2016-09-26 11:22:33.873)
Hello, it would be very useful and convenient if you could offer precision quality individual drill in the sizes required for the taps you sell.
jlow  (posted 2016-09-29 10:55:03.0)
Response from Jeremy at Thorlabs: Thank you for your feedback, we will look into offering these.
johannes.hohlbein  (posted 2016-06-27 09:37:37.37)
I would also be interested in a tap to match the SM2 lens tube system.
acaballero  (posted 2016-05-10 10:03:46.95)
I could really use a tap to match the SM2 lens tube system.
besembeson  (posted 2016-05-10 04:59:37.0)
Response from Bweh at Thorlabs USA: We can provide this to you. I will follow-up via email.
cbrideau  (posted 2016-01-04 19:09:52.09)
An 8/32 imperial tap would be very useful to complement the M4 metric tap.
besembeson  (posted 2016-01-05 08:26:53.0)
Response from Bweh at Thorlabs USA: We typically stock and provide mostly specialty taps that aren’t easily found as a convenience to those looking to integrate our components in their systems. As #8-32 is a very common thread, its tap can be easily found at local convenient stores or many other places online so we don't stock this.
ghall  (posted 2015-11-24 11:50:45.943)
What style of taps are those? For through holes or bottoming? What class are they in terms of the tolerance/allowance? Specifically looking at the M11x0.5 tap.
besembeson  (posted 2015-12-02 12:12:21.0)
Response from Bweh at Thorlabs USA: This is a 4 flute, straight flute hand tap with a 6H class fit.
cbrideau  (posted 2014-01-13 14:58:47.927)
What would you recommend for drilling out a broken-off cap screw? The stainless steel of the screw is quite hard, so I'm not sure what would have a decent chance of actually boring through it...
jlow  (posted 2014-01-14 02:59:05.0)
Response from Jeremy at Thorlabs: You can use a sharp carbide drill bit for this. You can use a sharp punch and a hammer to create a pilot first. The screw is susceptible to hardening, so once you begin the drill process, you should not stop until you are through the screw. Also, there should be a steady stream of some sort of cutting fluid on the drill bit so it does not get too hot. Your university machine shop or a local machine shop should have this cutting fluid readily available.
user  (posted 2013-11-07 15:40:06.927)
Why not sell the die too?
jlow  (posted 2013-11-11 10:54:51.0)
Response from Jeremy at Thorlabs: We do not stock the dies but we can provide it. Since you did not leave your contact info, can you contact us at techsupport@thorlabs.com to request a quote for the die you are looking? Thanks.
user  (posted 2013-07-15 16:12:23.917)
Worst drill bit set ever!. Tried to drill through copper 1/4" copper and was not able to because the drills are just dull. I would not sell these at all.
cdaly  (posted 2013-07-18 10:15:00.0)
Response from Chris at Thorlabs: Thank you for your feedback. It may be a matter of drill speed and feed. Please contact as at techsupport@thorlabs.com to discuss the conditions further.
nejbauer  (posted 2013-03-19 07:25:05.243)
Hi, Do you have taps for imperial thread 8-32, which is very popular in your products? Best regards, Michal Nejbauer
tcohen  (posted 2013-03-21 15:51:00.0)
Response from Tim at Thorlabs to Michal: Thank you for contacting us! We look to stock specialty taps that aren’t easily found as a convenience to those looking to integrate our components in their devices. #8-32 is a ubiquitous tap and you will most probably have luck finding it at your local hardware store.
jlow  (posted 2012-07-31 15:26:00.0)
A response from Jeremy at Thorlabs: We will get in contact with you directly regarding a quote for this.
sfnagle  (posted 2012-07-31 13:52:09.0)
I was wondering if you sell the die that goes with this tap size. I need to make external SM1 threads for a custom part in my set-up. Thanks.
gregory.futia  (posted 2010-12-15 16:44:34.0)
Where do you get a .508" through drill to use with the SM05 tap, 83373?
Back to Top

Specialty Taps - Imperial

Standard Thread Tap Diagram
Click to Enlarge
Diagram of a Standard Tap
  • Specialized Plug Taps
  • Covers SM05, SM1, and Most Other Threads Used by Thorlabs
  • Material: High-Speed Steel

These specialty taps aid in the integration of our optomechanical components into your custom-built devices. Our imperial taps selection includes many of the thread standards used by Thorlabs, including our SM05 (0.535"-40) and SM1 (1.035"-40) standards. Please see below for our metric taps.

Tapping Recommendations
To tap a hole, first machine a pilot bore, using the table below to find the recommended pilot bore diameter. The bore can be made using a drill bit or an end mill. For fine pitch threads, the pilot bore should be tightly toleranced because of the shallow thread depth; a reamer is also recommended in this case.

Next, secure the tap into a tap wrench, drill press, or lathe to create the threads. Lubricant or tapping fluid should be used to create the hole. If resistance is felt while tapping, carefully rotate the tap backwards to remove it, as broken taps are exceptionally difficult to remove.

If using these specialty taps for production, precision ring and plug gauges should be used to verify hole diameters. For additional details on threading and taps, please consult the Machinery's Handbook, available in many machine shops and bookstores.

Item # Thread Type Thread Depth
(T)
Overall
Length
(L)
Shank Size
(S)
Pilot Bore Example Uses
Diameter Tolerancea Imperial Drill Sizeb
TAP080 0-80 0.31" 1.63" 0.141" 0.049" +0.003"/-0.002" - Holes for Locking Setscrews
TAP256 2-56 0.44" 1.75" 0.141" 0.070" ±0.004" #50
(0.0700")
Mounting Holes on Miniature Translation Stages
TAP440 4-40 0.56" 1.88" 0.141" 0.089" ±0.005" #43
(0.0890")
Holes for Cage Rod Locking Setscrews
TAP680 6-80 0.69" 2.00" 0.141" 0.126" ±0.002" 1/8"
(0.1250")
Holes for 6-80 Adjustment Screws
TAP832 8-32 0.75" 2.13" 0.168" 0.135" +0.004"/-0.005" #29
(0.1360")
Mounting Holes for 8-32 Screws
TAP316100 3/16"-100 0.88" 2.38" 0.194" 0.177" +0.002"/-0.001" #16
(0.1770")
Holes for 3/16"-100 Adjustment Screws
TAP1420 1/4"-20 1.00" 2.50" 0.255" 0.202" +0.005"/-0.006" #7
(0.2010")
Mounting Holes for 1/4"-20 Screws
TAP1480 1/4"-80 1.00" 2.50" 0.255" 0.238" ±0.002" B
(0.2380")
Holes for 1/4"-80 Adjustment Screws
TAP14100 1/4"-100 1.00" 2.50" 0.255" 0.240" +0.002"/-0.001" - Holes for 1/4"-100 Adjustment Screws
TAP51632 5/16"-32 1.13" 2.72" 0.318" 0.282" +0.004"/-0.003" 9/32"
(0.2812")
Mounting Holes for 3/16"-100 Locking Bushings
with 5/16"-32 External Threads
TAP3824 3/8"-24 1.25" 2.94" 0.381" 0.335" ±0.005" Q
(0.3340")
Mounting Hole for HAFC Fiber Bulkhead Adapter,
3/8" Standard Tapped Holes
TAP3840 3/8"-40 1.25" 2.94" 0.381" 0.348" ±0.003" S
(0.3480")
Mounting Holes for 1/4"-80 Locking Bushings
with 3/8"-40 External Threads
TAP38100 3/8"-100 1.25" 2.94" 0.381" 0.365" +0.002"/-0.001" - Holes for 3/8"-100 Fine Adjustment Screws
TAPSM05 0.535"-40
(SM05 Standard)
1.66" 3.59" 0.429" 0.511" ±0.003" - Internal Threads on Ø1/2" Lens Tubes
TAPRMS 0.800"-36
(RMS Standard)
2.00" 4.47" 0.652" 0.773" +0.004"/-0.003" - Mounts for RMS-Threaded Objectives
TAPCM 1.00"-32
(C-Mount Standard)
2.50" 5.13" 0.800" 0.970" ±0.004" - Internal Threads on C-Mount Extension Tubes,
Mounts for Machine Vision Camera Lenses
TAPSM1 1.035"-40
(SM1 Standard)
1.50" 4.00" 0.896" 1.011" ±0.003" - Internal Threads on Ø1" Lens Tubes
  • For fine pitch threads, it is especially important to tightly tolerance the pilot bore because of the shallow thread depth.
  • Item numbers with drill sizes listed are within the provided tolerance for each item. For item numbers without a corresponding standard drill size, please refer solely to the pilot bore diameter column, as drill bits in that size are not available.
Based on your currency / country selection, your order will ship from Newton, New Jersey  
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Imperial Price Available
TAP080 Support Documentation
TAP080English (Imperial) Tap, 0-80 Thread
$23.76
Today
TAP256 Support Documentation
TAP256English (Imperial) Tap, 2-56 Thread
$17.82
Today
TAP440 Support Documentation
TAP440English (Imperial) Tap, 4-40 Thread
$11.89
Today
TAP680 Support Documentation
TAP680English (Imperial) Tap, 6-80 Thread
$36.40
Today
TAP832 Support Documentation
TAP832English (Imperial) Tap, 8-32 Thread
$9.56
Today
TAP316100 Support Documentation
TAP316100English (Imperial) Tap, 3/16"-100 Thread
$35.88
Today
TAP1420 Support Documentation
TAP1420English (Imperial) Tap, 1/4"-20 Thread
$17.38
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TAP1480 Support Documentation
TAP1480English (Imperial) Tap, 1/4"-80 Thread
$32.61
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TAP14100 Support Documentation
TAP14100English (Imperial) Tap, 1/4"-100 Thread
$42.52
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TAP51632 Support Documentation
TAP51632English (Imperial) Tap, 5/16"-32 Thread
$29.71
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TAP3824 Support Documentation
TAP3824English (Imperial) Tap, 3/8"-24 Thread
$43.57
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TAP3840 Support Documentation
TAP3840English (Imperial) Tap, 3/8"-40 Thread
$31.45
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TAP38100 Support Documentation
TAP38100English (Imperial) Tap, 3/8"-100 Thread
$60.50
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TAPSM05 Support Documentation
TAPSM05English (Imperial) Tap, 0.535"-40 Thread (SM05 Standard)
$99.99
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TAPRMS Support Documentation
TAPRMSEnglish (Imperial) Tap, 0.800"-36 Thread (RMS Standard)
$102.48
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TAPCM Support Documentation
TAPCMEnglish (Imperial) Tap, 1.00"-32 Thread (C-Mount Standard)
$118.80
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TAPSM1 Support Documentation
TAPSM1English (Imperial) Tap, 1.035"-40 Thread (SM1 Standard)
$102.48
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Specialty Taps - Metric

Standard Thread Tap Diagram
Click to Enlarge
Diagram of a Standard Tap
  • Specialized Plug Taps
  • Covers Many Threads Used by Thorlabs
  • Material: High-Speed Steel

These specialty taps aid in the integration of our optomechanical components into your custom-built devices. Our metric taps selection includes many of the thread standards used by Thorlabs. Please see above for our imperial taps, as well as taps for our SM05 (0.535"-40) and SM1 (1.035"-40) standards.

Tapping Recommendations
To tap a hole, first machine a pilot bore, using the table below to find the recommended pilot bore diameter. The bore can be made using a drill bit or an end mill. For fine pitch threads, the pilot bore should be tightly toleranced because of the shallow thread depth; a reamer is also recommended in this case.

Next, secure the tap into a tap wrench, drill press, or lathe to create the threads. Lubricant or tapping fluid should be used to create the hole. If resistance is felt while tapping, carefully rotate the tap backwards to remove it, as broken taps are exceptionally difficult to remove.

If using these specialty taps for production, precision ring and plug gauges should be used to verify hole diameters. For additional details on threading and taps, please consult the Machinery's Handbook, available in many machine shops and bookstores.

Item # Thread Type Thread Depth
(T)
Overall
Length
(L)
Shank Size
(S)
Pilot Bore Example Uses
Diameter Tolerancea Metric Drill Sizeb Imperial Drill Sizeb
TAPM202 M2 x 0.2 11.35 mm 44.7 mm 2.72 mm 1.805 mm +0.013 mm/-0.026 mm 1.80 mm
(0.0709")
- Holes for M2 x 0.2 Adjustment Screws
TAPM2502 M2.5 x 0.2 12.7 mm 46.0 mm 3.58 mm 2.313 mm ±0.030 mm 2.3 mm
(0.0905")
- Holes for M2.5 x 0.2 Adjustment Screws
TAPM302 M3 x 0.2 16.0 mm 49.3 mm 3.58 mm 2.813 mm ±0.030 mm 2.8 mm
(0.1102")
#34
(0.1110")
Holes for M3 x 0.2 Adjustment Screws
TAPM3025 M3 x 0.25 16.0 mm 49.3 mm 3.58 mm 2.766 mm ±0.037 mm 2.75 mm
(0.1083")
7/64"
(0.1093")
Holes for M3 x 0.25 Adjustment Screws
TAPM4025 M4 x 0.25 19.1 mm 54.1 mm 4.27 mm 3.77 mm ±0.037 mm 3.75 mm
(0.1476")
#26
(0.1470")
Holes for M4 x 0.25 Fine Adjustment Screws
TAPM407 M4 x 0.7
(M4 Standard)
19.1 mm 54.0 mm 4.27 mm 3.332 mm ±0.090 mm 3.3 mm
(0.1299")
#30
(0.1285")
Mounting Holes for M4 Screws
TAPM4505 M4.5 x 0.5 22.4 mm 60.5 mm 4.93 mm 4.029 mm ±0.070 mm 4.0 mm
(0.1575")
#21
(0.1590")
Mounting Hole for M3 x 0.25 Adjuster Nutc
TAPM6025 M6 x 0.25 25.4 mm 63.5 mm 6.48 mm 5.575 mm ±0.0165 mm 5.6 mm
(0.2205")
#2
(0.2210")
Holes for M6 x 0.25 Adjustment Screws
TAPM605 M6 x 0.5 25.4 mm 63.5 mm 6.48 mm 5.526 mm ±0.068 mm 5.5 mm
(0.2165")
7/23"
(0.2187")
Mounting Bores for Aspheric Lens Housingsd
TAPM610 M6 x 1.0
(M6 Standard)
25.4 mm 63.5 mm 6.48 mm 5.035 mm ±0.118 mm 5.1 mm
(0.2008")
#8
(0.1990")
Mounting Holes for M6 Screws
TAPM7505 M7.5 x 0.5 28.7 mm 69.0 mm 8.08 mm 7.026 mm +0.068 mm/-0.067 mm - - Mounting Bores for
Ø7 mm Optic Mounts
TAPM805 M8 x 0.5 28.7 mm 69.1 mm 8.08 mm 7.526 mm ±0.068 mm 7.5 mm
(0.2953")
M
(0.2950")
Mounting Bores for Aspheric Lens Housingsd
TAPM905 M9 x 0.5 31.8 mm 74.7 mm 9.68 mm 8.526 mm ±0.068 mm 8.5 mm
(0.3346")
Q
(0.3340")
Mounting Bores for Aspheric Lens Housingsd
TAPM1005 M10 x 0.5 31.8 mm 74.7 mm 9.68 mm 9.526 mm ±0.068 mm 9.5 mm
(0.3740)
3/8"
(0.3750")
Mounting Bores for Aspheric Lens Housingsd
TAPM10505 M10.5 x 0.5 31.8 mm 74.7 mm 9.70 mm 10.026 mm +0.068 mm/-0.067 mm - - Mounting Bores for
Ø10 mm Optic Mounts
TAPM1105 M11 x 0.5 36.6 mm 80.3 mm 8.20 mm 10.526 mm ±0.068 mm 10.5 mm
(0.4133")
Z
(0.4130")
Mounting Holes for Mounted Aspheric Lens Pair Housingsd
TAPM1205 M12 x 0.5 42.1 mm 85.7 mm 9.32 mm 11.526 mm ±0.068 mm 11.5 mm
(0.4528")
29/64"
(0.4531")
Mounting Bores for Aspheric Lens Housingsd
TAPM1405 M14 x 0.5 42.2 mm 91.2 mm 10.90 mm 13.526 mm ±0.068 mm 13.5 mm
(0.5315")
17/23"
(0.5312")
-
TAPM20505 M20.5 x 0.5 50.8 mm 113.5 mm 16.56 mm 20.026 mm +0.068 mm/-0.067 mm - - Mounting Bores for for
Ø20 mm Lens Mounts
TAPM25075 M25 x 0.75 (M25 Standard) 63.5 mm 130.3 mm 20.32 mm 24.284 mm ±0.096 mm - - Mounts for M25-Threaded Objectives
  • For fine pitch threads, it is especially important to tightly tolerance the pilot bore because of the shallow thread depth.
  • Item numbers with drill sizes listed are within the provided tolerance for each item. For item numbers without a corresponding standard drill size, please refer solely to the pilot bore diameter column, as drill bits in that size are not available.
  • The N250L3P M3 x 0.25 Adjuster Nut is externally M4.5 x 0.5 threaded. The TAPM4505 Tap can be used to tap a mounting hole for this adjuster nut.
  • The webpages for our mounted aspheric lenses indicate the external thread of the lens housing.
Based on your currency / country selection, your order will ship from Newton, New Jersey  
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Metric Price Available
TAPM202 Support Documentation
TAPM202Metric Tap, M2 x 0.2 Thread
$57.09
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TAPM2502 Support Documentation
TAPM2502Metric Tap, M2.5 x 0.2 Thread
$56.81
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TAPM302 Support Documentation
TAPM302Metric Tap, M3 x 0.2 Thread
$57.96
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TAPM3025 Support Documentation
TAPM3025Metric Tap, M3 x 0.25 Thread
$42.52
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TAPM4025 Support Documentation
TAPM4025Metric Tap, M4 x 0.25 Thread
$43.82
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TAPM407 Support Documentation
TAPM407Metric Tap, M4 x 0.7 Thread (M4 Standard)
$11.89
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TAPM4505 Support Documentation
TAPM4505Metric Tap, M4.5 x 0.5 Thread
$37.57
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TAPM6025 Support Documentation
TAPM6025Metric Tap, M6 x 0.25 Thread
$42.52
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TAPM605 Support Documentation
TAPM605Metric Tap, M6 x 0.5 Thread
$31.45
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TAPM610 Support Documentation
TAPM610Metric Tap, M6 x 1.0 Thread (M6 Standard)
$21.48
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TAPM7505 Support Documentation
TAPM7505Metric Tap, M7.5 x 0.5 Thread
$46.64
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TAPM805 Support Documentation
TAPM805Metric Tap, M8 x 0.5 Thread
$36.40
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TAPM905 Support Documentation
TAPM905Metric Tap, M9 x 0.5 Thread
$47.76
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TAPM1005 Support Documentation
TAPM1005Metric Tap, M10 x 0.5 Thread
$55.03
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TAPM10505 Support Documentation
TAPM10505Metric Tap, M10.5 X 0.5 Thread
$67.28
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TAPM1105 Support Documentation
TAPM1105Metric Tap, M11 x 0.5 Thread
$56.50
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TAPM1205 Support Documentation
TAPM1205Metric Tap, M12 x 0.5 Thread
$55.96
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TAPM1405 Support Documentation
TAPM1405Metric Tap, M14 x 0.5 Thread
$66.38
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TAPM20505 Support Documentation
TAPM20505Metric Tap, M20.5 x 0.5 Thread
$123.64
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TAPM25075 Support Documentation
TAPM25075Metric Tap, M25 x 0.75 Thread (M25 Standard)
$160.71
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Drill Bit Kit

  • 60 Number-Sized Drill Bits Ranging from #1 Bit to #60 Bit
  • Bit Material: High-Speed Steel
  • 135° Point Angle
  • Sizes Embossed in Steel Case

The DK3 Drill Bit Kit includes 60 drill bits of standard jobber length. The bits are constructed from high-speed steel and have a 135° point angle. This kit holds the bits in a compact, all-steel index case, with the bit sizes, tap sizes, tap drill sizes, and body drill (clearance) sizes embossed in the case.

Based on your currency / country selection, your order will ship from Newton, New Jersey  
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Universal Price Available
DK3 Support Documentation
DK360-Piece Drill Bit Kit
$143.25
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Universal Tap Wrench

Sliding Crossbar
Click to Enlarge

Ratcheting Selector Knob and Sliding Crossbar
  • Universal Ratcheting Tap Wrench with Sliding Crossbar
  • Accommodates Taps from #0 to 1/4" or M2 to M6
  • Shank Size from 0.141" to 0.255" or 3.6 mm to 6.5 mm

This machinist-quality Hand Tap Wrench is ideally suited for everyday tapping requirements. The rugged stainless steel design provides durability and long life, and the crossbar conveniently slides to provide extra torque when required. Ratcheting in either direction can be selected using the knob at the top of the wrench (see photo to the right). The Hand Tap Wrench can accommodate taps as small as #0 or 2 mm and as large as 1/4" or 6 mm.

Based on your currency / country selection, your order will ship from Newton, New Jersey  
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Universal Price Available
TW25 Support Documentation
TW25Hand Tap Wrench
$68.01
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Table Tapping Guide

Repairing a Damaged Tapped Hole

Table Tapping Guide
Click to Enlarge

Once the TTT001(/M) guide is properly aligned over the hole, use the TW25 Hand Tap Wrench with a 1/4"-20 tap (Item # TAP1420) or an M6 tap (Item # TAPM610) to restore the threads.
Table Tapping Guide
Click to Enlarge

To repair a hole with the TTT001(/M) guide, first secure it to the optical table using the included countersunk screws. These screws are designed to center the steel bushing over the damaged hole.
TTT001 Dimensions
Click for Details

TTT001(/M) Tap Guide Dimensions
  • Repair 1/4"-20 or M6 Holes in Optical Tables and Breadboards
  • Bushings Help Ensure Tapped Holes are Perpendicular to the Work Surface
  • Two 1/4"-20 or M6 Countersunk Mounting Screws Supplied

The TTT001(/M) Tap Guide is designed to assist in the re-drilling and re-tapping of an optical table or breadboard damaged by broken screws or cross threading. Two countersunk mounting screws (also known as flat head socket cap screws) are supplied for bolting the guide to the existing 1/4"-20- or M6-threaded hole matrix. A toughened, tool-grade steel bushing insert acts as a precise guide for drilling the broken screw out of the damaged hole. Another steel bushing guides the tap into the drilled-out hole, restoring the threads and ensuring that the resulting tapped hole is perpendicular to the work surface.

The main cause of tap breakage is unwanted sideways motion when the operator attempts to rotate the tap while simultaneously applying a force not purely parallel to the drill axis. This device discourages this costly error. We advise the use of a sharp, carbide-tipped drill bit to drill out the broken screw. When mounting the tap guide, care should be taken not to overtighten the countersunk mounting screws.

Based on your currency / country selection, your order will ship from Newton, New Jersey  
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Imperial Price Available
TTT001 Support Documentation
TTT001Table Tapping Guide for 1/4"-20 Threads
$66.82
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+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Metric Price Available
TTT001/M Support Documentation
TTT001/MTable Tapping Guide for M6 Threads
$66.82
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Last Edited: Sep 09, 2013 Author: Dan Daranciang