Navigating the world of DIY projects can be intricate, especially when dealing with metal materials and precise tools such as a 7/16″ tap.
In this article, drawing from my years of experience, I’ll share crucial insights to guide you towards the appropriate drill bit size and type. Understanding these factors will not only ensure precision but also increase the longevity of your materials.
Contents
What Size Drill Bit For 7/16″ Tap?
The drill bit sizes for a 7/16″ tap are:
– for a 7/16″-14 tap, use a 23/64″ fractional drill bit.
– for a 7/16″-20 tap, use a 25/64″ fractional drill bit.
| Tap Size | Fractional Drill Bit Size |
|---|---|
| 7/16″-14 | 23/64″ |
| 7/16″-20 | 25/64″ |
Similar to the 5/16″ Tap and 3/16″ Tap, there’s usually two different tap sizes and their respective drill bits. This means that the drill bit size will need to be changed up a bit if you are dealing with a longer tap.
You have your choice between the 7-16″-14 NC or the 7/16″-20 NF.
As you will see below, the drill bit sizes are similar. A 7/16″-20 NF Tap is longer in length compared to its 7/16″-14 NC counterpart. It’s important to pay attention to the tap size you plan on using for threading your holes.
Using a 7/16″-14 NC tap while using a 25/64” will be a mismatch and can spell failure for the project you intend to do. Follow the chart below to drill a perfect pilot hole that will fit a tap every single time.
| Tap Size (and Type) | Drill bit size |
| 7/16″-14 NC | 23/64” |
| 7/16″-20 NF | 25/64” |
Smaller projects might necessitate using a ¼”-20 Tap, ¼” NPT Tap, or a ¼” Tapcon.
How to use 7/16″ Tap?
Regardless of size, a tap is used for one purpose. Its intent is to create threads for holes that are designed to fit screws or bolts. When it comes to metalworking, holes need to be created so metal pieces are fused together.
A 7/16″ tap is just one of the many sizes available when you want to fit it through a perfectly drilled hole. Choose the best drill bit for metal that is the appropriate size based on the tap you are using. Since you are drilling metal, you may be using a drill press designed for metal since it’s also designed for heavy duty purposes.
If you are using a cheap handheld drill, you might struggle to generate the power needed to get through metal. Opting for a powerful corded drill would be a better option.
When working with metal, you want to make sure that it’s secured on a C-Grip or a drill press vise. Any slight movement during the drilling process and the hole’s path will be crooked.
This can lead to screws and bolts being a challenge to install when it should be quick and smooth. As long as the holes are drilled straight through and free of any shavings or debris, you won’t have a hard time installing as many screws and bolts as you can.
When working on taps, you’ll want to have some drilling oil and a center punch on hand. Use the center punch to create divots where you plan on drilling. Once the divots are created, apply the drilling oil.
Using your drill of choice, you can drill through the divots. It may not be a straight through job though, You can drill every inch or so, stop, blow off any shavings or debris, and repeat the process until satisfied.
After the hole is drilled, clean up any leftover debris and apply a bit more drilling oil. This will make the tap process easier. Attach your 7/16″ tap to a T-handle and then go to work on the hole by threading it.
When to use 7/16″ Tap?
The best time to use a 7/16″ tap is when you are working on metal projects. The most common metals you will be working on is steel or aluminum. You’ll want to make sure that the holes are drilled perfectly and straight through before you begin using the tap.
Even the best cheap drill press will allow you to quickly work through your tap and screw projects.
Other considerations for 7/16″ Tap
Before starting the drilling process, decide whether or not a corded drill or a drill press will work best for you. Otherwise, a power corded drill will work since it can pack a good amount of power. The material of the drill bit will also play a role in which one you choose.
If you are planning to drill steel, you’ll want to use titanium or cobalt drill bits. These will cut through steel compared to regular drill bits, which can get easily damaged. If you are using aluminum, cobalt drill bits are the best possible match.
The reason for these two drill bit types is that they are corrosion resistant. Plus, they are very durable in heavy duty situations.
Before Using a 7/16″ Tap
Before you use a 7/16″ tap, it’s important to have the right tools and supplies. Make sure you have drilling oil, a center punch, and a vise or C-grip. Remember to have the right safety gear handy since you will be working with metal.
When working with metal, you may deal with rough or sharp edges that can cause injury.
Final Thoughts
If you are looking to use a 7/16″ tap, it’s good to know which type you’ll want to use. This will help you decide on which size drill bit is needed. There are two types to choose from, so you’ll want to choose the right one if you want the tap to fit properly (as well as the screws or bolts).
We hope that this guide has been helpful to you. Your next metalworking project may involve a 7/16″ tap, but it will certainly be rewarding to make the right choice in drill bits.
