M36×3 Tap Drill Size
The number you came for, then the reasoning behind it.
M36×3 tap drill — 75% thread
33 mm
33.077 mm exact · nearest inch drill 83/64 (1.2969")
How it's calculated
Tap drill = major diameter − pitch → 36 − 3 = 33 mm
The exact 75% figure is major − (pitch × 75 / 76.98). The simple subtract-the-pitch rule lands within a hundredth of a millimetre of it, which is why every machinist uses it.
All engagement percentages
| % thread | Exact hole | Metric drill | Inch equivalent |
|---|---|---|---|
| 50% | 34.051 mm | 34 mm | 1.3438" (43/32 drill) |
| 65% | 33.467 mm | 33.5 mm | 1.3125" (21/16 drill) |
| 75% | 33.077 mm | 33 mm | 1.2969" (83/64 drill) |
| 85% | 32.687 mm | 32.5 mm | 1.2812" (41/32 drill) |
Which percentage should you actually use?
75% for through-holes in mild steel and aluminium. 65% for blind holes, stainless, titanium and anything where the tap is at risk. 50% for hand-tapping deep holes. The strength you give up going from 75% to 60% is around 5%; the tapping torque you give up is around 30%. In practice the threads almost never fail — the tap does.
75% for through-holes in mild steel and aluminium. 65% for blind holes, stainless, titanium and anything where the tap is at risk. 50% for hand-tapping deep holes. The strength you give up going from 75% to 60% is around 5%; the tapping torque you give up is around 30%. In practice the threads almost never fail — the tap does.