13 best tapping fluid

Tapping fluid, also known as cutting fluid or thread cutting oil, is a type of lubricant used in machining and metalworking processes, particularly in the operation of threading or tapping.Here's what you should know about tapping fluid:

Lubrication: Tapping fluid serves as a lubricant during the machining process. It reduces friction between the cutting tool (such as a tap or die) and the workpiece, making it easier to cut threads and reduce wear on the tool.
Cooling: Tapping fluids also have a cooling function. The heat generated during the cutting or tapping process can lead to tool overheating and reduced tool life. Tapping fluid helps dissipate this heat, keeping the tool at an optimal temperature and preventing overheating.
Chip Removal: As metal is cut during tapping or threading, chips are generated. Tapping fluid helps in the efficient removal of these chips from the cutting area. This prevents chips from interfering with the cutting process and ensures a cleaner and more precise thread.
Thread Quality: Using tapping fluid improves the quality of the threads produced. It reduces the likelihood of chips getting trapped in the threads, resulting in smoother, more accurate threads with fewer defects.
Types of Tapping Fluids: There are different types of tapping fluids available, and the choice of fluid depends on the specific machining application. Some common types include:
- Oil-Based Tapping Fluids: These are traditional cutting oils and are suitable for various metalworking applications.
- Water-Based Tapping Fluids: These are water-soluble fluids and are often used in machining processes that require water-based coolant systems.
- Synthetic Tapping Fluids: These are formulated with synthetic compounds and are known for their long tool life and versatility.
Application Methods: Tapping fluid can be applied in various ways, including:
- Brushing: Applying the fluid directly onto the cutting tool and workpiece.
- Spraying: Using a spray bottle or coolant system to disperse the fluid evenly.
- Dipping: Immersing the workpiece and tool in a container of tapping fluid.
- Flood Cooling: Using a continuous flow of fluid to cool and lubricate the machining process.
Safety Considerations: When working with tapping fluids, it's essential to follow safety guidelines, as some fluids may contain chemicals that can be hazardous to health. Proper ventilation and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) may be necessary.
Environmental Impact: Many modern tapping fluids are designed to be more environmentally friendly and may be formulated to be biodegradable or free of harmful chemicals.

In summary, tapping fluid is a crucial lubricant and coolant used in metalworking and machining processes, especially when threading or tapping operations are involved. It improves tool life, thread quality, and the efficiency of metalworking processes while also helping to manage heat and chip removal. Different types of tapping fluids are available to suit specific machining needs.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best tapping fluid on the market

Tap Magic 30004P ProTap Cutting Fluid, 4 oz. Size

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This eco-friendly cutting fluid is totally biodegradable and can be applied to any and all cutting operations and metals. No operation or metal will stand in your way with Tap Magic Protap.

Use for drilling, tapping, milling - any cut on any metal when a biodegradable cutting fluid is called for in your environment
Highly effective for hard metals such as stainless steel. Will not stain or change the properties of even soft metals such as aluminum
Dissipates heat rapidly and provides closer tolerances
Yields an ultra-fine finish and promotes longer tool life

User questions & answers

Question:	Is this similar to paper shredder oil and can it be substituted for this
Answer:	no. you will need an impact hammer drill and a hardened impact bitas the hole is made by pounding the stone into dust
Question:	Can i use it to drill hole in a stone
Answer:	I looked on the SDS sheet and didnt see anything about being flammable. Also didnt see any air restricions either. Google Tap Magic
Question:	Hello, is this product flammable? i'm wondering if i'll be allowed to keep it in my checked-baggage when i leave the states
Answer:	none
Question:	What’s the difference between this tap magic and the “Forney 20857 tap magic
Answer:	I use it to cut hardened steel. The cutting speed is critical for the life of the tool and a good cooling is required. Wood and aluminum should be no problem. Do not get it hot and keep it clean.

Tap Magic 20004A Aluminum, 4 oz.

Tap Magic

Based on 258 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Tap Magic aluminum is a professional-quality cutting fluid that’s specially engineered for cutting and machining operations on aluminum and other non-ferrous metals. This is absolutely the most effective cutting fluid you can use for working with aluminum. Drilling, tapping, sawing… regardless of the cut, you’ll enjoy superior performance, superb precision, and a beautiful Micro fine finish. Tap Magic aluminum dissipates heat rapidly and provides closer tolerances. It also helps promote longer tool life.

Use for any and all cutting operations on aluminum: tapping, milling, drilling, threading, sawing, turning, boring…you name it
Yields a beautiful micro-fine finish. Promotes longer tool life
Ozone-friendly and completely free of 1, 1, 1 trichloroethane
Dissipates heat rapidly and provides closer tolerances
Also highly effective on magnesium and other nonferrous metals

User questions & answers

Question:	What container does this come in? Metal or plastic
Answer:	Good morning...Tap Magic and WD-40 are not comparable. Tap Magic is strictly a cutting fluid, for in the case of this question, drilling into aluminum. WD-40 has many uses but is not formulated to be used as a cutting fluid.
Question:	Is this compatible with WD
Answer:	I have only used the 4 oz product. I know nothing about the referenced product.
Question:	How is this product different from your item number20016A? Both are tap Magic for aluminum. I'm assuming that one of them is 4 oz and the other is
Answer:	No, it’s much lighter. If you are looking to lubricate your paper shredder, buy the shredder lubricating sheets that are made for that purpose.

TAP Magic 10016E EP-XTRAOZ ONE Friendly Cutting FLUIDS - 16 OZ. SPOUT TOP

Tap Magic

Based on 897 reviews Check latest price

Product description

TAP MAGIC 10016E EP-XTRAOZ ONE FRIENDLY CUTTING FLUIDS - 16 OZ. SPOUT TOP

Made in USA
16 oz. Bottle
Highly effective for drilling, tapping, milling - all cuts on all metals.
This is the fluid to have when you don't know what cut or what metal tomorrow may bring.
TAP MAGIC with EP-XTRA Cutting Fluid

User questions & answers

Question:	It the weight pretty thick or does it run easily
Answer:	This product is used as a lubricant for cutting and machining metals. I can't think of any benefits for a chainsaw, besides it would be a very expensive bar oil.
Question:	Is it good for a chainsaw
Answer:	mine came with the resealable black cap
Question:	K&RDeals which lid does this bottle have? The resealable black cap or the open white cap
Answer:	It appears to me that it is the same stuff just different ounce cans. - Tap Magic is the manufacturer -not Forney. I'm assuming they are just using their own part number in the listing. It is showing a picture 4 oz can of Tap Magic ( Manufacturer part # 10004E ) Same stuff as the 10016E - both are their EP-Xtra cutting fluids.
Question:	What is the difference between the tap magic 10016e ep-extraqz one friendly cutting fluid 16oz, and the forney 20857 tap magic industrial pro cutting
Answer:	Good morning...the metal cans, unless old stock, are hard to come by. The containers are plastic.

Forney 20857 Tap Magic Industrial Pro Cutting Fluid, 4 oz

Forney

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Forney welding 20857 tap magic Pro cut fluid 4 oz.

Non-Spray cutting fluid
Use for tapping, threading, drilling and reaming
Use on ferrous metals and non-ferrous alloys
Apply directly on the work surface
Click on the (BY FORNEY) name above in blue under the title to view our full catalog of Welders, Abrasives, Chain/Wire Rope, Tools and more!

User questions & answers

Question:	The description says this is pro tap but the picture is of the regular less expensive stuff???? Which is it
Answer:	I have used this product for 35 years are more. The shelf life is a very long time as in several years, after being opened.
Question:	What's the shelf life of this product
Answer:	I don't think this cutting fluid is ideal for drilling plexi-glass, though it will work and will not discolor your material. It is an oil, so clean up would involve something to cut the oil film. Here is a link to a web site that details what drill bits you need to use (standard bits tend to "grab" the plexi-glass) , and they recommend either light machine oil, or just plain water. http://www.bertram31.com/proj/tips/drill_acrylic.htm
Question:	Is this product OK to use on clear acrylic like plexi-glass
Answer:	I've successfully drilled stainless steel burners on a grill with a carbide-tipped drill bit.
Question:	Hello....Would like to know if this product works for stainless steel, drilling and or tapping???...thanks...Bob
Answer:	Neither describes it very well, It isn't so thin it runs away from working area but not so thick you have to use more than necessary. I think it's called capillary action, it moves it self to the work, especially drilling. It is better than a previous product that for some reason skyrocketed the price, like $180. for a quart.

Product features

Forney 20857 Tap Magic 4 oz. Cutting Fluid

Cutting and cooling fluid. Ideal for all cutting regardless of what you cut or how you cut it. This cutting fluid incorporates a heavy-duty, versatile formula that performs incredibly on all metals in any operation. You name it, and Tap Magic can handle it!

Product Specifications:

Non-spray cutting fluid
Size: 4 ounces (113.40 grams)
Completely biodegradable and ecologically safe
For use on stainless, steel, aluminum, titanium, cobalt, nickel, cast iron, copper, magnesium, bronze, brass and more
Apply directly on the work surface

Easily cuts through metal

Easy-to-understand directions

Additional sizes include; Forney ITEM# 20858, 16 oz, and Forney ITEM# 20859, 1 gallon

CRC 03400 16oz Truetap Cutting Fluid Heavy Duty Bottle,Amber

CRC

Based on 464 reviews Check latest price

Product description

A heavy-duty cutting fluid designed for use in severe applications. Thick, honey-like fluid clings to cutting tool throughout the operation. Excellent for use on tough stainless steel and exotic metals.

Thick fluid clings to the cutting tool throughout the operation
Contains no 1,1,1-trichloroethane
Excellent for use on stainless steel and exotic metals
Provides excellent finish and accurate threads
Greatly extends cutting tool life and decreases the number of tool repairs

User questions & answers

Question:	I need to drill holes in agate stone slices for crafting. Is this necessary or useful for stone and lapidary drilling
Answer:	Drilling stone is different from metals and requires a medium to protect and cool the masonry bits. I don’t believe this would be the right medium for masonry or stone bits.
Question:	Can i use this product to cut a hole in a steel door? i make many holes in doors
Answer:	Yes, This product best use for tapping. If using for making many holes I would use coolant or cutting fluid instead.
Question:	I am new to cutting lubricants and how to use them. Do you apply it directly to the drill piece for example? thanks
Answer:	I'm fairly new to machining, and I bought this stuff as well. It works great by applying a small amount on the surface you are drilling and applying small amounts in in the hole you are drilling as you go. The key is to keep the drill bit lubricated in the hole as you drill. You will get better cutting results and save burning and dulling the bits.
Question:	What is the best way to clean this off of your drill bit and cutting area
Answer:	Drilling Metal I use Stiff Brush damp with Appropriate cutting oil. Drilling wood, plastic and the like I use a cheap paint brush dry.

Product features

TrueTap HD Heavy Duty Cutting Fluid, 16 Fl Oz

16 Ounce Bottle.

Heavy Duty Cutting Fluid.

Product Description

Premium Metal Tapping Fluid - 16 FL. OZ. Threading and Cutting Oil

CLIsyntec

Based on 91 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Developed for industrial use, CLIsyntec Metal Tapping Fluid is a premium, high performance cutting oil designed for the most extreme pressure operations such as tapping, threading, and reaming of stainless and other high alloy steels. Formulated to produce optimum thread quality, while cooling material surface and enhancing metal / workpiece barrier. Directions: Apply Metal Tapping Fluid to the cutting tool. For Best Results: Lubricate as needed at point of friction for precise cutting and smooth finish. For many metal cutting applications. Not for use on titanium. Remove from brass and copper after using to prevent staining of material.

User questions & answers

Question:	is this suitable for aluminum
Answer:	I was sent the exact bottle pictured 4oz “Tap Magic EP-XTRA Cutting Fluid 20857 Part No. 10004E”. What the difference is between this one and the other with a different number I have no idea. This one has more the consistency of water than oil. The tap oil I’m use to using is more like thick gear oil, but this looked (judging from reviews and answers) like the one pro machinist use.

Rapid Tap Heavy Duty Cutting Fluid 4 Ounce

RELTON

Based on 202 reviews Check latest price

Product description

RELTON 04Z-NRT Rapid Tap Cutting and Drilling Fluid, 4 oz.

Size: 4 fl. oz. Bottle
Improves Surface Finish, Machining Accuracy And Tool Life
Effective On Aluminum, Brass, Bronze, Cast Iron, Copper, Magnesium, Molybdenum, Stainless, Stellite, Titanium And Other Metals
Effective On All Machining Operations
Use When Drilling, Milling, Threading, Broaching, Boring, Turning, Tapping, Engraving, Reaming Or Sawing

User questions & answers

Question:	Does this come in the metal can pictured
Answer:	The tap/die, or the cutting oil?
Question:	Can this be used on palstic / acrylic
Answer:	No it does not. Comes in a plastic bottle. I fill up my metal can from the bottle.
Question:	Does this come in the metal can as pictured
Answer:	Although it is not designed for aluminum it will work. It is recommended machined parts should be cleaned after use due to it's active components, thank you for your interest in CLISYNTEC.

Premium Metal Tapping Fluid - 128 FL. OZ. (1 Gallon) Threading and Cutting Oil

CLIsyntec

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Lubricates and Protects Your Tools
Industrial Strength
High Performance Cutting Oil
Produces Optimum Thread Quality
Cooling Properties on Material Surface

Tap Magic 20016A Aluminum Fluid with Spout Top, 16 oz, Light Yellow (Pack of 1)

Tap Magic

Based on 144 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Tap Magic Aluminum Cutting Fluid is an efficient choice for any work on aluminum. Unlike some other fluids on soft metals, it will not stain the surface of the work. Precision is always excellent and the finish is always superb. Highly compelling for drilling, tapping and milling that cuts on all metals.

Use for any and all cutting operations on aluminum
Yields a beautiful micro-fine finish
Ozone-friendly and completely free of 1,1,1 trichloroethane
Dissipates heat rapidly and provides closer tolerances
Also highly effective on magnesium and other nonferrous metals

User questions & answers

Question:	Why would one use this product instead of the regular Tap Magic that says it works with Aluminum
Answer:	It is used for milling of aluminum especially ar lowers. I do not know about stubborn screws,
Question:	This work pretty well for getting a stubborn screw into an ar lower
Answer:	use Aluminum tap Magic, it only takes a drop may be you could find a 4 OZ can at a Machine shop supply store. unless you are doing a lot of Drilling & Tapping.
Question:	does it matter which Tap Magic you use on my Ar15 80 lower
Answer:	No

Premium Metal Tapping Fluid - 4 FL. OZ. Threading and Cutting Oil

CLIsyntec

Based on 50 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Lubricates and Protects Your Tools
Industrial Strength
High Performance Cutting Oil
Produces Optimum Thread Quality
Cooling Properties on Material Surface

Lubri-Cut Drilling and Tapping Lubricant/Fluid/Paste

Martrow Technical Products

Based on 31 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Tapping lubricant. Drilling lubricant. Heavy machinery at home or in a shop. Lubri-Cut is a solid lubricating paste that consists of primarily bees wax and a proprietary blend of cutting oils. It is quickly advancing towards being a 100% environmentally friendly product. Orders of $35 or more, get free shipping!

Ideal for harsh metal working conditions.
Drilling, Boring, Sawing, Tapping, Tight tolerance machining
Slight red colorant to assist user during application.

User questions & answers

Question:

What to use to remove the oil residue left by this product

Answer:

I have no idea. I have never used regular Tap Magic. The aluminum type of fluid was the product recommended to me by one of America's leading machinist who taught me how to engrave every type of metal known including gold and silver. I have been using it since 1978 and it is still my favorite cutting fluid. The regular Tap Magic may work just as well but I see no reason why I need to experiment to find out.

Hot Max 27051 Tap Magic Cutting Fluid, 16 oz.

Hot Max

Based on 156 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Hot Max Tap Magic Cutting Fluid EP-XTRA lets you enjoy superb precision and a beautiful micro-fine finish regardless of the cut or the metal. This special ozone-friendly formula contains no 1,1,1 trichloroethane and contains no fluorocarbon propellants or other ozone-depleting chemicals. Great for difficult cutting operations, including long duration extreme-pressure cuts. For use on all metals including mild steel, stainless steel, aluminum and titanium. Not for sale in California.

Great all around cutting fluid for use with many different metals including mild steel, stainless steel and aluminum
Great for cutting, drilling, tapping, or threading metal components
Ozone-friendly formula contains no 1,1,1 trichloroethane
Larger 16 ounce container is perfect for power users and large projects
Not for sale in California

User questions & answers

Question:	How is this different from tap magic model 20857 (the other 4 oz tap magic on amazon
Answer:	For fabric, use Dawn or other oil emulsifier. To remove from hard, durable surfaces, use turpentine, or de-alcohol.

Energy Release P011 Cutting and Tapping Fluid - 13.75 oz.

Energy Release

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Energy Release Cutting and Tapping Fluid is a superior cutting formula containing Energy Release which can be applied with ease. Energy Release Cutting and Tapping Fluid incorporates Energy Release to help tools cut through the hardest metals without distortion and tool wear. The fluid reduces heat and clings to tool surfaces providing superior protection to cutters, drills, taps, reamers and punches. Energy Release Cutting and Tapping Fluid is recommended for use on stainless steel, high nickel alloys and exotic alloys such as Titanium, Hastelloy X, Inconel and Ascoloy.