Not all threads are made by cutting. In large production runs or where great strength is required, the threads may be rolled (male) or formed (female).

In the case of the tap there are no cutting edges but instead the tap is lobed. The tap is forced into the hole and the material is deformed by the lobes into the required thread form. Formed threads have the advantage of increased strength (the material flows into shape via cold forming) along with reduced manufacturing time.

Coolant fed taps are designed to increase cutting efficiency and chip evacuation by supplying coolant directly to the cutting zone. Coolant ducts within the tap are directed either radially or axially. Radial coolant ducts funnel coolant directly into the flute of the tap while radial coolant ducts channel coolant to the point of the tap.