HSS Thread Forming Taps – M1–M12 for Chipless Tapping
HSS thread forming taps for chipless metric threading, available in M1–M12 sizes. Designed for suitable ductile materials, with 18 thread sizes covering pitches from 0.25 to 1.75 mm across the range.
Product Specifications
Consistent Quality
Consistent geometry across repeat orders.
Flexible Orders
Small batches and mixed sizes available.
OEM Support
Custom marking, labels and packaging.
Standard & Custom
Standard sizes and custom configurations.
HSS Thread Forming Taps – M1–M12 for Chipless Tapping
These HSS thread forming taps produce metric internal threads through plastic deformation of the workpiece, without generating cutting chips. The range includes 18 sizes from M1 × 0.25 to M12 × 1.75 for miniature components and general CNC threading. Also known as roll taps, they require a sufficiently ductile material, a correctly sized pilot hole and effective lubrication. Select the thread size and pitch, then confirm the required thread depth, tolerance and machine setup.
Tool TypeHSS Thread Forming Tap
Thread StandardMetric M1–M12
Tapping MethodChipless Forming
ApplicationPrecision CNC Tapping
Key Configuration
Forms metric internal threads by displacing material, with listed pitches from 0.25 to 1.75 mm.
Shank diameters range from 3 to 8.5 mm. Match the selected size to the tap holder and machine setup.
HSS forming taps for CNC lathes, machining centers and tapping centers with suitable feed synchronization.
Key Product Advantages
M1–M12 Metric Range
Eighteen listed thread sizes cover miniature components and general metric threading requirements.
Chipless Thread Forming
Forms the thread without cutting chips, eliminating tapping-chip evacuation from the hole.
Small-Thread Capability
The range starts at M1 × 0.25 for small threaded features in suitable ductile materials.
Documented Dimensions
Thread length, overall length and shank diameter are listed for every size to support tool selection.
Tapping Applications
For metric internal threads in housings, fittings, brackets and precision components. Blind-hole or through-hole use depends on the selected forming chamfer, required full-thread depth and available clearance.
Metric ThreadingRECOMMENDED
Small Thread FeaturesRECOMMENDED
CNC Chipless FormingRECOMMENDED
Precision ProductionSUITABLE
Application Note:Use a forming-tap pilot-hole specification and suitable lubrication. Do not reuse a cutting-tap drill size without verification. Confirm full-thread depth, bottom clearance and synchronized feed before machining.
Workpiece Material Compatibility
| MATERIAL GROUP | EXAMPLES | APPLICATION LEVEL |
|---|---|---|
| P Steel | Low-carbon steel with sufficient ductility | Confirm grade and hardness |
| N Non-Ferrous Alloys | Ductile aluminum and copper alloys | Confirm grade and hardness |
| M Stainless Steel | Selected stainless steel grades | Application review required |
Material Note: Thread forming requires sufficient material ductility. Confirm alloy grade, hardness, pilot-hole tolerance and lubrication; suitability does not extend to every aluminum, brass or stainless steel grade. Brittle materials require a different threading approach.
Product Details & Available Configurations
The images below show HSS thread forming tap configurations. Refer to Specifications & Sizes for the 18 listed metric models. Confirm material grade and surface treatment for the selected size before ordering.
M10×1.5 Thread Forming Test in 45 Steel
Practical chipless tapping test using an M10×1.5 thread forming tap in 45 steel. The 14-hole test produced smooth, clean threads, with both GO and NO-GO gauge checks passing successfully.
Test Parameters:
M10×1.5 · Ø9.3 mm pilot hole · 100 rpm · 150 mm/min feed · 14 holes
Lubrication:
Cutting oil is recommended. When using water-based coolant, a higher concentration can help improve tap life and thread surface quality.
For a carbide-substrate forming option, see our Solid Carbide Thread Forming Tap.
For applications requiring chip-cutting taps in blind holes, see our HSS Spiral Flute Taps for Blind Holes – M3–M12
Size Chart & Specifications
The table below lists 18 metric HSS thread forming tap sizes from M1 to M12. Dimensions are in millimeters. Select by the complete thread designation and check the shank diameter, tool reach and required full-thread depth.
Symbols: d = nominal thread diameter; l = thread length; L = overall length; D = shank diameter.
| THREAD SIZE × PITCH | THREAD LENGTH l (mm) | OVERALL LENGTH L (mm) | SHANK DIAMETER D (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| M1 × 0.25 | 4 | 32 | 3 |
| M1.2 × 0.25 | 4 | 34 | 3 |
| M1.4 × 0.3 | 5 | 36 | 3 |
| M1.6 × 0.35 | 6.5 | 37 | 3 |
| M1.7 × 0.35 | 6.5 | 37 | 3 |
| M1.8 × 0.35 | 6.5 | 37 | 3 |
| M2 × 0.4 | 11 | 40 | 3 |
| M2.3 × 0.4 | 11 | 44 | 3 |
| M2.5 × 0.45 | 15 | 44 | 3 |
| M2.6 × 0.45 | 15 | 44 | 3 |
| M3 × 0.5 | 18 | 46 | 4 |
| M3.5 × 0.6 | 18 | 48 | 4 |
| M4 × 0.7 | 20 | 52 | 5 |
| M5 × 0.8 | 22 | 60 | 5.5 |
| M6 × 1 | 24 | 62 | 6 |
| M8 × 1.25 | 18 | 70 | 6.2 |
| M10 × 1.5 | 20 | 75 | 7 |
| M12 × 1.75 | 25 | 82 | 8.5 |
Technical Configuration
| PARAMETER | PRODUCT CONFIGURATION |
|---|---|
| Tap type | HSS thread forming tap / roll tap |
| Thread system | Metric; listed sizes M1 × 0.25 to M12 × 1.75 |
| Thread direction & shank | Right-hand; straight shank with square drive |
| Material & surface treatment | HSS; HSS-E and coating requests are subject to size and application confirmation. |
| Thread tolerance | Specify the required finished-thread tolerance when ordering; confirm the corresponding tap specification. |
| Pilot-hole diameter | Application-specific forming-tap hole diameter and tolerance must be confirmed before machining. |
Selection & Setup
| CHECK | WHAT TO CONFIRM |
|---|---|
| Thread & workpiece | Thread size, pitch, required tolerance, material grade and hardness. |
| Hole & reach | Blind or through hole, full-thread depth, pilot-hole depth and holder clearance. |
| Pilot-hole preparation | Use the recommended forming-tap hole diameter and tolerance. Do not reuse a cutting-tap drill size without verification. |
| Feed & lubrication | Synchronize feed to thread pitch. Select speed and a suitable lubricant for the actual tap, workpiece and setup. |
| First-piece inspection | Verify thread fit and the formed minor diameter before batch production. |
Related Thread Specifications
Need inch threads? See our M35 Cobalt UNC & UNF Thread Forming Taps – TiN Coated for a separate Unified-thread series. Its dimensions and pitches differ from the metric sizes listed above.
View HY HSS Taps Catalog — for the broader tap range. Use this page’s size table for the dimensions of the M1–M12 product shown here.
HSS Tap Customization
For requirements beyond the standard range, send your tap drawing or application details. Custom HSS cutting and forming taps can be reviewed for the following specifications.
| PARAMETER | CUSTOMIZATION OPTIONS |
|---|---|
| Thread Specification | Metric, UNC/UNF and pipe threads; special diameters, pitches and left-hand threads. |
| Thread Accuracy | Tap limits and oversize allowances to suit the required internal-thread tolerance and gauging requirements. |
| Tap Geometry | Straight flute, spiral flute, spiral point or forming design; chamfer and working geometry matched to the application. |
| Length & Reach | Overall length, threaded-section length and neck clearance to suit thread depth and component access. |
| Shank & Drive Square | Shank diameter, square dimensions and holding length to match the tapping holder. |
| Material & Surface Finish | HSS or cobalt HSS grades; uncoated, TiN or TiCN options, depending on the tap design and workpiece material. |
Options depend on tap type and size. Final specifications, minimum order quantity and lead time are confirmed with the quotation.
OEM & Private Label
Customer branding and packaging can be specified for distributor and tooling-brand orders.
Laser marking: Logo, thread size, product code and batch identification, subject to available shank space. Labels & packaging: Protective tubes, product labels and branded packaging to the approved artwork.
For a quotation: Send a drawing or thread specification, required tolerance, workpiece material and hardness, blind or through-hole details, thread depth and quantity. Include machine, holder and lubrication details for application-specific requests.
HSS Tap Quality & Inspection
HSS cutting and forming taps are checked against the confirmed product specification or approved drawing. Material verification, in-process dimensional checks and final inspection focus on thread accuracy, tool geometry and consistent identification before packing.
Key Inspection Points
Inspection items and acceptance criteria depend on the tap type, size and agreed requirements.
| INSPECTION ITEM | CHECK POINTS |
|---|---|
| Material & Hardness | HSS or cobalt HSS grade and material records; hardness requirements and verification agreed for the selected grade. |
| Thread Form & Accuracy | Thread size, pitch, profile and specified tap limits against the confirmed specification or drawing. |
| Working Geometry | Flutes, spiral point and cutting edges for cutting taps; forming lobes and lubrication grooves, where present, for forming taps. Chamfer geometry checked for each design. |
| Tool Dimensions | Threaded-section length, overall length, shank diameter and drive-square dimensions. |
| Runout & Surface Condition | Specified runout, burrs, chipped edges and visible defects on cutting or forming surfaces. |
| Coating & Identification | Specified surface finish or coating, visible condition, tool marking and label accuracy. |
Inspection documentation: Specify any required material records, dimensional reports or sample-thread validation before ordering. Availability and inspection scope are confirmed with the quotation.
Packaging & Batch Identification
Individual protective packaging helps prevent damage to tap threads and working surfaces. Labels identify the tool specification and order or batch reference. Models, quantities and packing details are checked before dispatch.
Export Packing & Delivery
Outer cartons, cushioning and export packing are selected for the order quantity and shipping method. Dispatch dates, freight and payment terms are confirmed with the order.
FAQ & Technical Support
Selection, hole preparation and ordering guidance for HSS thread forming taps in M1–M12 sizes.
Product & Application FAQs
How does a thread forming tap work?
A forming tap, also called a roll tap, displaces the workpiece material to create an internal thread without producing cutting chips. It requires a suitable ductile material, an accurately prepared hole and effective lubrication.
Which sizes are included in this series?
The size chart lists 18 metric specifications from M1 × 0.25 to M12 × 1.75. Overall lengths range from 32 to 82 mm, threaded-section lengths from 4 to 25 mm, and shank diameters from 3 to 8.5 mm. Check Specifications & Sizes for each size-and-pitch combination.
Which workpiece materials are suitable?
Thread forming requires material that can deform without cracking. Suitability depends on the exact alloy, hardness and ductility, together with the tap geometry and coating. Send the material grade for review; this series should not be assumed suitable for every metal.
Can these taps be used in blind and through holes?
Forming taps can be used in either hole type when the selected design suits the application. For blind holes, allow space below the required full thread for the tap chamfer and bottom clearance. The listed threaded-section length is not a guaranteed usable thread depth.
What pre-drill diameter should I use?
Use a forming-tap pre-drill recommendation for the exact thread, material and required thread fill. Do not reuse a cutting-tap drill size: forming normally needs a larger prepared hole. Confirm both diameter and tolerance, then check the first finished thread for fit and minor diameter.
How should speed, feed and lubrication be set?
Select speed for the material, tap size, coating and machine setup. For this metric series, synchronized feed per revolution equals the thread pitch. Supply a lubricant suitable for thread forming. The linked HSS speeds and feeds guide is general guidance, not validated data for this specific forming-tap series.
What should I check if torque is high or a small tap breaks?
Check the actual pre-drill diameter, lubrication, alignment, runout, feed synchronization and bottom clearance. Also confirm material suitability and tool condition. On M1–M2 sizes, small setup errors can be significant; verify a trial part before batch production.
Ordering & Customization FAQs
What information is needed for a quotation?
Send the thread size and pitch, quantity per size, workpiece material and required thread tolerance. For application support, include hole type, thread depth, prepared-hole diameter and machine details. A drawing or existing tool reference is helpful.
Can you supply special dimensions or OEM branding?
Special sizes, lengths, shanks, forming geometry and coating requirements can be reviewed from a drawing or application brief. Logo marking, labels and protective packaging can also be discussed. Available options and minimum quantities are confirmed with the quotation.
Can I order trial quantities or mixed sizes?
Trial orders and mixed-size requests can be reviewed. MOQ, sample terms and dispatch timing depend on the selected specifications, stock and any custom requirements. Include the quantity for each size in your inquiry.
Selection Guides
How to Choose HSS Cutting Tools
Thread Milling vs Tapping: Tool Selection
How to Choose a Thread Mill: Thread, Pitch & Tool Guide
The thread milling guides are for comparing alternative threading methods and selecting a thread mill when appropriate.
Catalog & Technical Downloads
General tap series reference. Use this product page’s Specifications & Sizes for the M1–M12 dimensions; catalog forming-tap dimensions may differ.
HSS Cutting Tools Speeds & Feeds Guide (PDF)
General HSS drilling and tapping reference. Confirm forming-specific speed, pre-drill size and lubrication before use; drill-feed values do not apply to tapping.
Need Sizes, Pricing or Custom Options?
Send us the required tool type, sizes, quantities, workpiece material and any OEM or custom requirements. We will confirm suitable specifications, availability, lead time and quotation details.
Drawings, size lists and reference photos are welcome.
