Continuous Feeding
The machine guides blank nuts onto the chamfered cutting end in sequence.
Taps / Automatic nut production tools
Bent Shank Taps
What Are Bent Shank Taps and How Do They Work?
Bent shank taps are designed for specialized automatic nut-tapping machines. Blank nuts feed onto the cutting end, advance over the threaded section, and then travel along the curved shank for discharge, allowing production without reversing the spindle for every part.
Progressive Threading
An extended lead chamfer distributes material removal across multiple teeth as each nut advances.
Over-Shank Travel
Finished nuts clear the cutting section and follow the curved shank toward the machine's discharge path.
Continuous Production
The compatible machine can keep the tool rotating while parts feed and discharge, subject to its designed operating cycle.
Key Features and Benefits of Bent Shank Taps
Continuous Part Passage
Curved-shank geometry permits compatible nuts to move away from the tap without a reversal cycle for each part.
Production Throughput
Continuous feeding can increase output compared with stop-and-reverse tapping when the machine and part are designed for the process.
Fewer Spindle Reversals
Rotating in one direction reduces reversal events and associated non-cutting cycle time.
Extended Lead Chamfer
A long chamfer spreads cutting load over more teeth and can reduce peak torque.
Production-Grade Core
Tool-steel and cobalt options provide torsional toughness for repeated automatic tapping.
Bent Shank Taps Specifications
| Specification | Range / Details |
|---|---|
| Diameter Range | #10 to 1"+; metric M5 to M30+ available by configuration |
| Thread Forms | UNC, UNF, metric, and custom pitch profiles |
| Shank Geometry | Curved shank engineered for the specified automatic tapper and nut discharge path |
| Chamfer Profile | Extended nib or taper chamfer, commonly 10 to 15+ threads |
| Flute Geometry | Straight flute or short-nib spiral flute |
| Pitch Limits | Application-specific GH, metric, or custom fastener-thread limits |
Materials and Coatings Available for Bent Shank Taps
| Material / Coating | Best For | Key Advantage |
|---|---|---|
| HSS (High-Speed Steel) | Carbon steel, brass, aluminum, and mild-steel nuts. | Toughness and shock resistance support repeated automatic cutting. |
| HSS-E (Cobalt) | Alloy steel, stainless steel, and higher-strength nut materials. | Added hot hardness helps resist edge breakdown during sustained production. |
| TiN / TiCN Coating | High-volume automatic tapping in compatible nut materials. | A suitable coating can reduce friction, limit material adhesion, and improve wear resistance. |
Match tool steel, coating, chamfer, flute form, lubricant, and cutting data to nut material, thread tolerance, machine model, and required production rate.
Which Machines Use Bent Shank Taps?
Automatic Nut Tappers
Purpose-built machines hold the curved tool and feed nuts continuously across its cutting section.
Continuous Fastener Lines
Hopper-fed systems orient, deliver, thread, and discharge compatible nut blanks.
Specialty Automatic Tapping Machines
Custom production units use matched holders and discharge geometry for specific bent shank tools.
Applications and Industries for Bent Shank Taps
Nut Manufacturing
Cuts through threads in standard hex nuts, square nuts, locknuts, and compatible special nuts.
Automated Fastener Production
Integrates with dedicated nut-tapping machines for repeated part feeding and discharge.
Through-Hole Hardware
Produces internal threads in components that can pass fully over the cutting and shank geometry.
High-Volume Hardware Processing
Supports continuous production of automotive, construction, and industrial fasteners.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bent Shank Taps
How do finished nuts pass over a bent shank tap?
The tool and nut dimensions provide clearance behind the cutting section. Each completed nut moves along the curved shank as subsequent blanks advance, then exits through the machine's designated discharge path.
Can a bent shank tap run on a standard CNC mill or lathe?
Bent shank taps are normally used only in automatic nut-tapping machines with a matching curved holder, part feed, and discharge system. Standard mills and lathes generally use straight-shank taps.
Why do bent shank taps have long chamfers?
An extended lead chamfer distributes chip load across many teeth, which can reduce peak torque, improve entry, and manage heat during continuous production.
Which materials can bent shank taps process?
Common nut materials include low-carbon and alloy steels, selected stainless steels, brass, and aluminum. Substrate, coating, lubrication, and cutting parameters must be matched to hardness and machinability.
Can Bauron manufacture custom bent shank taps?
Bauron can review bend geometry, shank clearance, nib length, thread pitch, flute style, substrate, and coating for a specific automatic tapping machine and nut design.
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Design and Engineering Support
Bauron provides design and engineering support for bend geometry, nib length, chamfer, flute form, shank clearance, pitch limits, substrates, and coatings. Share machine and nut specifications for technical review.
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