If you run a machine shop or manufacturing company and you have the need to make threaded bolts, you have several choices. For example, you can turn to Carmex Tools for some of the finest thread cutting products, or you may choose to use a method called thread rolling. Let’s check out the differences and explore the uses for thread rolling and thread cutting procedures, to help you make an informed decision.
Thread Cutting
Traditionally, shops cut threads into bolts, and they used lathe machines with cutting parts supplied by companies like Carmex Tools. The bolt or item to be threaded was held by a chuck and rotated. As the bolt rotated, a sharp thread cutting tool cut the threads into the metal one row at a time.
Thread Rolling
Thread cutting is a precise process, but it takes some time to cut threads into parts. Today, many companies need to create thousands of bolts or screws, and they must have a way to produce threads quickly, so they turn to thread rolling methods.
Bolts are extruded from round bar stock and then placed into thread rolling machines. The process is sometimes done manually, but it’s often an automatic method. To create threaded bolts, the blanks pass through thread cutting dies that force the threads into the blanks as they roll through. It’s a very fast process and can mass produce many bolts in a short time.
Which is Best?
If you need small bolts and you’re not concerned about making precision threads, thread rolling is the best method. However, when you need precision threading, you should turn to high-quality thread cutting tools like Carmex Tools, for the job. Thread cutting is more precise and can give you a wide range of thread sizes and styles. It’s as simple as changing the settings on the machine.