What is used to cut threads in metal, plastics, and rubber?

The process of cutting threads into materials such as metal, plastics, and rubber is accomplished using taps and dies. Taps are specifically designed for creating internal threads in a drilled hole, allowing for screws or bolts to be securely threaded into the material. Dies, on the other hand, are used to cut external threads onto a rod or a shaft. Together, taps and dies are essential tools in machining, enabling precise and uniform threading that is critical in many applications, including fasteners and assembly components.

In contrast, the other options provided do not effectively cut threads. A machinist's file is primarily used for smoothing or shaping surfaces rather than cutting threads. A punch and chisel are intended for forming or creating indentations in material and do not create threaded profiles. While a thread mill can indeed cut threads, it typically operates on a milling machine and is more complex for creating threads in specific applications, whereas taps and dies are the more straightforward and common tools used for general threading tasks. Thus, taps and dies are recognized as the standard for cutting threads across a variety of materials.