ITC extends tap portfolio with versatile Widia VariTap series

The Widia VariTap multi-purpose tapping line is capable of reducing inventory in general machine shops where a wide variety of materials require threading. It is suitable for carbon and alloy steels, stainless steels, ductile iron and cast aluminium. ITC says that although versatile, the high-vanadium HSS-E taps provide optimal threading performance as well as resistance to wear. Like other Widia 'Vari' products, the VariTap has purpose-optimised geometry. For 'through hole' applications, the spiral point provides a low tapping torque that rapidly pushes chips ahead of the tap. For blind holes, the VariTap series offers geometries that demonstrate rapid swarf evacuation through polished flutes. This reduces the 'nesting' requirement with continuous chip flow that further reduces stress on the tap supporting improved thread finish and extended tool life. The tool life also benefits from a proprietary PVD coating that is applied in-house. This PVD coating supports the reduction of tapping torque and improves wear resistance. The VariTap is available in multiple tap dimensions and geometries with ANSI, DIN length/ANSI shank, DIN 371 and 376 and UNJC/UNJF all catered for. The various VariTap ranges are available with semi-bottoming chamfers, Form B plug chamfer, Form C semi-bottoming chamfers and spiral point plug chamfers.