Threads and thread cutting

operations
ARUL R
APMECH
OBJECTIVES

By the end of this lesson you will be able to:

 Correctly identify and state the different parts of the screw thread.
 State the correct order and conditions to successfully complete a threading operation.
 Know the different ways in which screw threads can be produced.
 Know all safety precautions in relation to producing screw threads.
What is a Thread?

 Thread: it is the locus of a point which moves around and along a cylinder at a constant
rate. The helix is the basis of all screw threads.
Definitions of Parts

 Major Diameter or Nominal Diameter: is the outside diameter across the crests.
 Minor Diameter or Core Diameter: is the inside diameter from root to root.
 Crest: the outside part of the thread. The term applies to both internal and external
threads.
 Root: This is the lowest portion of the groove between two adjacent thread forms
 Flank: This is the straight side of the thread joining the root and the crest
 Pitch: the distance between two adjacent crests on a thread. The pitch equals the leads for
single start threads, half the lead for two start thread and a third of the lead for three start
threads and so.
 Lead: is the distance a nut will travel in one revolution along a bolt. On single start
threads the pitch is equal to the lead but they become different on multiple start threads.
TWO MAIN CATEGORIES OF A THREAD

 External Thread: this is the thread on a bolt.

 Internal Thread: this is the thread inside a nut
External Threads
Internal Threads
Types of Thread
APPLICATIONS OF THREADS

 Acme Thread: it is a modified form of square thread. It is easier to machine than a square
thread. It is used for producing transverse motion in machine tools.
 Buttress Thread: it is used for transmitting heavy loads in one direction only. It is used in
screw vices such as the woodwork vice.
 Square Thread: it presents a robust screw for controlled movement in machine vices, the
lead screws of lathes, presses, screw jacks and spindles of valves.
Thread Cutting Operations

 Tap and Die Method

 Lathe Operation Method
Tap and Die Cutting Internal Threads

 Internal Threads are made by using a tap. Taps are made of Carbon Steel or High Speed
Steel (HSS) and are carefully hardened and tempered for long life. Taps are quite brittle
and are easily damaged if not handled properly.
Types of Tap

 Taper Tap
 Second or Intermediate Tap
 Plug or Bottoming tap
Cutting External Threads

 Dies are used to cut external threads by hand. Solid Dies, are not adjustable and for that
reason are seldom used. The Adjustable Round Die, are the most widely used die for hand
use. The latter has a wide range of adjustments and is fitted with guides to keep it true.
Dies are available for cutting most standard Threads.
Care in Tapping

 Considerable care must be exercised when tapping.

 Use the tap before the die because the taps are non-adjustable for size, the dies are
Chamfer the rod end before you start using the die.
 Start the tap square. Use a cutting solution where necessary.
 Ensure that a blind hole is drilled deeper than the depth of thread required to allow
clearance for chipping.
 Do not force a tap to cut. Remove the chips as necessary. Give backward turns to break
off the chippings
Hand Threading Safety

 When using the tap or die use compressed air to clean the piece that you are threading.25
 Chips from the work can be sharp so use a brush to remove them.
 Wash hands after using cutting fluid because it can cause skin disorder.
 Be sure that die is securely clamped in the die stock because it can fall and cause painful
injuries.
 Be careful when handling broken taps because they have sharp edges.
Thread Cutting on the Lathe

 Thread cutting on the lathe is a process that produces a helical ridge of uniform section on
a work piece. This is performed by taking successive cuts with a threading toot bit of the
same shape as the thread form required. Work to be threaded may be held between centres
or in a chuck. If held in a chuck, the work should be turned to size and threaded before it
is removed.
CUTTING SCREW THREADS ON THE
LATHE

 Screw threads are used for many reasons, including:

 Making adjustments
 Assembly Parts
 Transmitting Motion
 Applying Pressure
 Making Measurements (eg. micrometer)
Steps involved in cutting Threads on the Lathe

 1. Obtain the required threads per inch (tpi) by gearing up the machine using the split nut.
 2. Sharpen the cutting tool to the required thread angle, for e.g. 60º
 3. Set up the work and the tool in correct position, with the compound slide swiveled to
half the thread angle.
 4. Engage a slow speed on the machine.
 Engage the split nut lever (automatic feed) with the thread chasing dial at the correct
datum.
 6. Advance the compound slide a small amount for the depth of cut.
 7. Start the lathe and engage the split nut lever. The tool now will move along the work
cutting a helical ridge, the pitch of which will be dependent on the gear train that has been
set up.
 8. At the end of the cut, disengage the split nut lever and bring the cross slide forward the
same time.
 Reposition the carriage for a second cut, bring the cross slide back to its original setting
and advance the cut on the compound slide.
 10. This should be done until the correct size thread is obtained.
Safety Precautions when Cutting Threads on
the Lathe

 Ensure that coolant and shields are in place.

 Stop the lathe before taking measurements of any kind.
 Never use callipers or gauges on a rotating work piece.
 Make sure that the lead screw is cleaned and oiled before starting operation.
 Apply cutting fluid/coolant while cutting the thread.
 Make sure that the machine oil is at the required level.