Tapped Hole Info: M6 Size & Bolt Diameter Clarified

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Discussion Overview

The discussion focuses on the specifications and dimensions related to tapped holes, specifically for M6 size bolts. Participants explore the relationship between the diameter of the tapped hole and the corresponding bolt size, including considerations for drilling and threading.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks clarification on whether a tapped M6 hole is 6mm in diameter for a 6mm diameter bolt.
  • Another participant confirms the initial understanding with a simple affirmation.
  • A different participant questions if the inquiry pertains to the size of the hole to be drilled for tapping an M6 bolt, noting that it is not simply 6mm and depends on the number of threads on the bolt.
  • One participant emphasizes that while the tap drill size is smaller than the nominal diameter, the major diameter of an M6 thread is indeed 6mm, cautioning that measurements may yield the minor diameter instead.
  • Another participant introduces the idea that if the unthreaded part of the bolt needs to fit in the hole, two drill sizes may be necessary: one for the threaded portion and another for the unthreaded upper part.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is no clear consensus; participants present differing views on the appropriate hole size for tapping and the implications of bolt dimensions.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference the need for tap drill size charts and the importance of distinguishing between major and minor diameters, indicating potential limitations in understanding without these resources.

engineer1969
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I just want to clarify. A tapped hole is basically a hole that has been threaded for a bolt. Is this correct?

So would a tapped M6 hole be 6mm in diameter for a 6mm diameter bolt?

Cheers
 
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yes :smile:
 
Wait, are you asking what size hole to drill that will then be tapped for an M6 bolt? Then that's not 6 mm, and it also depends on the number of threads on your bolt. You need a chart of tap drill sizes like this
http://www.csgnetwork.com/screwmetmachtable.html"
which also gives you clearance hole sizes.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
You're right that a tap drill is smaller than the nominal call out diameter on any tapped hole, but that's not what the OP is asking. In an M6 the major diameter of the thread is 6mm. I would just be certain that the OP realizes that if they take a set of calipers or mics to the hole, they will be measuring the minor diameter and thus gtting the tap drill size.
 
depends if the unthreaded part of the bolt also needs to be in the hole
then you need two drills a smaller one for the part the threads are cut in
and a true 6mm for a redrill of the unthreaded upper part
 

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