It’s so Much Easier to Thread Mill Pipe Threads

[Geoffrey Less]

Threading is essential when working with pipes and other interlocking components. Threads make it easy for two components to be connected together and using the right kind of threads can help to prevent leaks. The process of cutting threads needs to be extremely accurate in order to create components that will join together to produce a leak resistant seal. One way to cut threads quickly and efficiently is to thread mill pipe threads.

Threads for pipes are typically cut using specialized pipe threading machines. These machines work in a similar manner to traditional tap and die tools. The pipe is rotated while a cutting tool cuts and breaks the chips out of the threads. These tools often produce large helical chips along the threads. This process works well, but any jams that occur from unbroken chips can damage both the tool and the component being threaded. The design of these cutters makes them difficult to remove during a jam without damaging the pipe.

Nowadays, milling machines are becoming an increasingly common tool in manufacturing. These computer numerically controlled tools are able to precisely control a cutting tool to perform a huge range of tasks. One extremely specialized milling cutter is a full form thread mill. These can be used to cut internal or external threads. These tools have a line of pointed cutting teeth that are spaced based on the thread pitch of the threads they are designed to cut. By dropping the tool by the length of one thread pitch during a 360 degree pass, you can thread mill pipe threads in seconds.

In addition to full form thread mills, single pitch thread mills can also be used to cut threads. These tools are slightly different in function, featuring only one small cutting point at the end of the tool. Instead of cutting the entire threaded surface in one pass, these cutters are used to trace along the entire length of a threaded surface. This process takes longer than using a full form tool, but a single pitch thread mill can be used to cut various thread pitches and they are also capable of machining more delicate components or threading overhanging parts.

If you are interested in finding some reliable thread mills for your shop, then you need to visit Online Carbide. They offer a wide range of solid carbide milling tools on their site including drill bits and end mills. Their selection of thread mills include single pitch options and full form mills set up for cutting UN, Metric, NPTF and NPT threads. If you want to thread mill pipe threads with extremely precise results, then Online Carbide’s tools are the perfect choice for your shop. If you have any questions about any of the tools that they carry, feel free to reach out to a member of the Online Carbide team by sending an email to [e-mail].