The 3/8-16 tap drill size is a popular choice for tapping threads into a variety of materials. This size is perfect for use with taps that have a 3/8″ diameter shank. The 16 denotes the number of threads per inch on the tap, while the 3 refers to the diameter of the hole that needs to be tapped.
What is 3/8-16 Tap Drill Size?
A tap drill is a specific size of drill bit that is used to create the correct hole size for a tap. The 3/8-16 tap drill size refers to the diameter of the bit in millimeters [1]. This bit is used to create a hole that is 3/8 of an inch in diameter and has 16 threads per inch. This is a standard-size drill bit that can be found at most hardware stores.
When creating new threads in a piece of metal, it is important to use the correct size tap drill. This will ensure that the threads are properly cut and will not strip when the screws or bolts are inserted. The 3/8-16 tap drill is the most common size used for general-purpose applications. It can be used on a variety of materials, including steel, brass, and aluminum.
If you are working with a material that is particularly hard, you may need to use a larger tap drill. For example, if you are working with stainless steel, you may need to use a 3/8-18 tap drill. This is because stainless steel is much harder than other metals and requires a slightly larger hole to be cut.
What Size Drill Bit Do You Use for a 3/8-16 HeliCoil?
A HeliCoil is a specific type of threaded insert that can be used to repair damaged or stripped threads. This insert is made up of a coil of wire that is inserted into the hole, and then it is tightened down to create new threads. The 0.3970 size is the most common choice for use in repairing damaged threads.
When installing a HeliCoil, it is important to use the correct size drill bit. If you do not have a drill bit that matches the size of the HeliCoil, you can use a tap drill bit instead. A tap drill bit is slightly larger than a regular drill bit, and it will create a hole that is large enough for the insert to fit into.
Conclusion
The 3/8-16 tap drill size is a common choice for tapping threads into a variety of materials. This size is used to create mating threads in both metric and imperial measurements, making it versatile for a range of projects. When drilling holes to accommodate this type of tap, be sure to use a bit that is slightly smaller than the diameter of the tap itself- otherwise, you may damage your workpiece or strip the tapped thread.