[QUOTE=Joe K;1040312]The question of lubricating machine tapers has been discussed in the machine taper world. See
http://www.practicalmachinist.com/vb...tapers-233868/ for a three post entry regarding why or why not to lubricate morse or other machine tapers.
Quick overview: tapers are generally lubricated lightly on even self locking machine tapers primarily to allow disengagement without galling after the work is done.
I'm not so sure I would be that generous. Maybe a small amount of WD40 or other light lubricant? Maybe for no other reason than to exclude water and prevent rust? [Quote]
Hi Joe, I note that the link you posted above contains the opinions of guys like ourselves who are basically hobbyists, and not experts on taper design and application. Permit me to give a loyal and friendly opposing view to the proposition that tapers should be lubricated:
Tapers are designed to be "work holding" apparatus, used to extend or connect shafts in such a way as to maintain full strength of the assembly without introducing any free play, lash, or lost motion into the extended assembly. They need to be clean and dry, and free of rust or any surface contamination in order to function as they were designed. Many are held in their fixed positions by drawbars (or push-nuts in the case of the Model A).
Certain Morse Tapers are only connected by the force of pressing the male taper into the female taper receptacle, relying on a "tang" or rectangular tab at the end of the taper as insurance against rotation if the tool should "hog" into the workpiece, or vibrate loose.
Any form of lubrication will only work to break the integrity of the bond between the male and female parts of the joined taper assembly.
What causes galling is the rotation of the male taper inside of the female portion. Tapers are designed to be separated by direct linear force pulling the male away from the female taper, frequently assisted by a sharp rap to the male end of the taper (or to a loosened drawbar, or to an ejection pin).
There will be no galling to a properly removed taper if it is clean and contamination free.
And...no jokes about male and female tapers, please!
Chris