I could use some advice for tapping a 5/8" hole in an acrylic top on a reactor. What bit should I use and where can I find the bit locally. The threaded plastic probe holder is 5/8" in diameter so am I looking for a tapping set that's 5/8"? Sorry I'm a bit challenged with this stuff. Lol. I appreciate any advice.
Need advice on tapping a 5/8 hole in acrylic reactor top
- Thread starter bcavalli
- Start date
You also need to know the thread pitch or thread per inch. Usually 20 for US stuff, if so then just find a 5/8-20 tap drill set. Should come with a tap (screw that looks like it has slots cut down the sides) and a drill bit slightly smaller than the tap. Like this.
https://www.amazon.com/24-Tap-Die-Set/dp/B00E1WTDVA">https://www.amazon.com/24-Tap-Die-Set/dp/B00E1WTDVA</a>
the tap is for threading holes, the die (nut looking thing) is for threading rods into screws.
https://www.amazon.com/24-Tap-Die-Set/dp/B00E1WTDVA">https://www.amazon.com/24-Tap-Die-Set/dp/B00E1WTDVA</a>
the tap is for threading holes, the die (nut looking thing) is for threading rods into screws.
Awesome. Thank you so much for the information. It helps a lot! 
Yes, you will need to know the pitch. I have a gauge you can use. Once you know the true diameter and thread pitch then you can get the tap.
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The back of this has all common thread pitches on it.
The back of this has all common thread pitches on it.
Thankyou so much for the info Ricky. Jeff happened to have the right sized tapering tap. I'm all set now and I'll make sure I go slow and easy. I'd hate to screw up the MRC logo'd top. .
Now get back to taking care of your wife and new baby! Lol. Congratulations brother!
. Now get back to taking care of your wife and new baby! Lol. Congratulations brother!
https://premiumaquatics.com/products/reef-fanatic-probe-holder-bulkhead.html?gclid=CMb00cufsdICFdgIgQodNKUAXw">https://premiumaquatics.com/products/reef-fanatic-probe-holder-bulkhead.html?gclid=CMb00cufsdICFdgIgQodNKUAXw</a>
Step bits are cheap at harbor freight and work great
Step bits are cheap at harbor freight and work great
Bcavalli;1109055 wrote: Thankyou so much for the info Ricky. Jeff happened to have the right sized tapering tap. I'm all set now and I'll make sure I go slow and easy. I'd hate to screw up the MRC logo'd top.
Now get back to taking care of your wife and new baby! Lol. Congratulations brother!
I'm sure Jeff told you how to use it. But just in case. Put a dab of olive oil in the hole and on the tap. Advance a quarter turn at a time then back it up, go slow and you'll get it done right.
Thanks Adam! Gotta love this hobby it forces you to learn new trades.
Brett....I looked up the drill bit requirement:
Pipe Size..............Use Drill Bit.............Alternate Bit Size
3/8" X 18 NPT.........7/64......................9/16
1/2" X 14 NPT....23/32....................3/4
Pipe Size..............Use Drill Bit.............Alternate Bit Size
3/8" X 18 NPT.........7/64......................9/16
1/2" X 14 NPT....23/32....................3/4
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When threading plastic, use the smallest drill bit that will work with the tap. Also, since you are tapping pipe threads, DO NOT screw the tap all the way in. You should only run the tap just through the lid or about 1/4 way up the tap.
If you drill too big a hole or tap it too far, your probe holder may thread all the way in and bottom out before getting tight.
If you drill too big a hole or tap it too far, your probe holder may thread all the way in and bottom out before getting tight.
Thanks Jeff! I have that exact bit in my set.
Thank the you Schwaggs I appreciate that information it makes sense.
Brett...check the tap in the lid that the holder came from. It should thread perfectly.
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Hey Brett,....Do what they said! 
Will do. Thankyou!
