draadgat

Draadgat is a term used in Dutch to describe a hole that is internally threaded to receive a screw or bolt. It is typically created for mechanical assemblies where fasteners must be removable or adjustable. In many contexts the term is used interchangeably with schroefdraadgat, though some technical texts distinguish between the hole itself (draadgat) and the threading operation (tap).

Manufacturing and design

A draadgat is produced by drilling a hole to a size suitable for the desired thread, followed by tapping to cut or form the internal threads. In plastics and softer materials, thread-forming taps or insert inserts may be used. For blind holes, a bottoming tap or special long-tap is employed to achieve full thread depth to the bottom of the hole. The chosen thread designation follows standard systems such as the ISO metric (for example M6×1.0, M8×1.25), with tolerance classes (commonly 6H for internal threads) governing fit and mating with the external thread.

Variants and considerations

Draadgaten can be through holes (open at the far side) or blind holes (not reaching the far side). Important design considerations include hole alignment, thread engagement length, material strength, wall thickness, and whether lubrication or thread-locking compounds are required. Properly sized holes and clean tapping reduce risk of cross-threading and ensure reliable fastening.

Materials and applications

Draadgaten are used across many sectors, including automotive, aerospace, electronics, machinery, and furniture production. They enable adjustable assemblies, detachable joints, and equipment maintenance. In corrosive or high-stress environments, materials, coatings, and thread quality are selected to maintain integrity over time.

See also

Schroefdraad, thread tapping, threaded insert, fasteners.