MITGI
Thread Mills

FAQs

• How do you decide whether to use a standard tool or move to a custom?

  There are several answers to this seemingly simple question. For example:

  • Lead time may be a deciding factor. Our regular lead time for standard tools is 3 days or less, while custom tools are usually available in 2 weeks or less. Regardless of how we quote a tool in normal circumstances, we understand when companies are pressed for time. We don’t charge to expedite, but we will try to accommodate schedules whenever possible. Let us know what you need and we’ll do our best to achieve it.
  • Production volume may drive your decision. If you are a high-mix, low-volume facility, a standard tool may be a great option for you. A MITGI standard tool will help achieve tight tolerances and great surface finish and can be used in a variety of materials and projects. If you are a high-volume, low-mix facility, custom tools may be worth considering. When production lines are tasked with increasing tool life, improving cycle times, or increasing throughput, custom tools may help to achieve the goals through application-specific features and geometries.
  • Not sure? Just ask. Send us your tool specs, info on the project, and any goals you’re trying to achieve. If a standard tool exists, we’ll let you know. If we see any opportunities for improved performance by moving to a custom, we’ll give you the option to consider.

• What are some common types of thread mills?

  Single Point Thread Mill: A thread mill with a single-point profile that can be used to create a variety of thread sizes and pitches.

  UN Full Form Thread Mill: United National (UN) tool type has a 60° thread form, often used for general purposes.

  NPT Full Form Thread Mill: National Pipe Taper (NPT) is a type of internal thread commonly used in North America. The threads are tapered with a 60° included angle and used in applications where a full, leakproof seal is needed.

  NPST Full Form Thread Mill: National Pipe Taper Fuel (NPTF) thread mills are often used in fluid systems or with hard-to-cut and gummy materials. They also have a 60° thread angle and a tapered profile.

• What kind of applications call for a custom thread mill instead of a standard?

  In most cases, a standard thread mill will be used to create threaded parts. Sometimes, the threads may be deeper in a hole than the standard tool can achieve. When this happens, a custom tool can be created that utilizes a standard set of thread criteria, but with added reach. Another common reason to move to a custom tool is when more threads are needed than the standard tool provides. The tool can be manufactured using the standard set of thread criteria, just with additional threads. In some cases, manufacturers may design their products to utilize custom threads, which allows the company to make a unique product that is difficult to replicate by competitors.

• Do you need different tools to create left- or right-hand threads?

  No, you do not. The same thread mill can be used to create left- or right-hand threads.

• How can you extend the life of a thread mill?

  If your drill is working well, but you’d like it to last longer, coating is often a good place to start. It may not be suitable for every material, but the added lubricity and heat control that the coating provides may help to extend tool life. If your tool is already coated, it may be worth considering switching to a different coating. There may be more than one coating that is suitable for a material, and upgrading to a higher-performance coating may help extend life in applications that produce more heat. Learn more about our in-house coating options.