[ilovewhatido]

We are using metacam software on a trumpf tl 2530 c02 laser....the problem we are having is putting an m3 hole (.098in) in a .250in 6061 alumiunum without blowing the hole open. we have tried experimenting with different pierces and such but havent had much luck. After tapping the m3 thread the no-go gauge will go threw and the parts are rejected. If anyone has any suggestions or recommendations on what to try other than making the holes even smaller and drilling them out to the proper diameter after please leave them below. If you need any more info just let me know. thanks for the help!

[Kenny Duval]

Smaller drill. Then ream to size. Then tap.

[ilovewhatido]

Smaller drill. Then ream to size. Then tap.

this is a c02 laser and we are trying to eliminate the added step of undersizing them on the laser and opening them up with a drill but instead go straight from c02 laser to tapping station.