Drilling a new hole and putting threads in it for a bolt to screw in

Question

Hi everyone (noob alert)- I need to put a threaded bolt into a fresh new hole I have drilled into a piece of metal but how do I put in threads which match this particular bolt? Thanks

Answer 1

Making threads is done with two tools known as a Tap and a Die. The are sold individually or in sets. To make threads in a hole, you need a tap. Those are the items in the image that look like a cross between a bolt and a drill bit. In fact, that's what they are. As you use the handle to turn them into the hole, the tapered flutes cut threads into the walls.

Note that each tap size needs a very particular hole size, and many are sold with matching drill bits because some sizes are just a little different than the typical set of drill bits will contain.

Also, each size will have a minimum thickness. These are not for use in sheetmetal. The metal needs to be thick enough to have at least a few threads cut into it or the bolt would easily rip out. The thickness needed depends on the bolt size and the strength requirements.

The dies (plural spelling?) are the circular pieces and they are used for making threads on the outside of a bar (to make a bolt).

Using these tools takes a little practice and some patience. Its possible to break a tap off inside a hole, and then you have a tough situation.

Answer 2

The tap & die answer is accurate, and as for your concerns about the threads matching, maybe this will help you choose the correct thread type/count so it should be no issue. Threads for screws, bolts and nuts vary due to type & intended application and are very precise. Dies and taps have a numerical indicator on them revealing the size and thread count they are gauged at. Lower thread count=less ridges per inch and a "looser" thread pattern, higher count= "tighter" pattern and more ridges per inch, and these are standardized across the industries that utilize these fasteners. Your bolt`s size and thread count are easily measured/verified, making matching it to your needed tap tool just as easy, and being standardized means you can buy the tap you need from any who sell tap & die equipment and be assured an accurate fit.