“I’ve tried rigid tapping using standard ER collets in my non-floating holders and I’m breaking taps. Why is this happening and is there a reasonably-priced solution?"

• Your machine tool may not be designed for rigid tapping, you did not buy that option, or there is a small error between the spindle reversal and slide reversal. These are machine tool problems that you can work around without disassembling the machine. Use a floating tap collet such as the ERQC or the ERTC. These collets fit in the standard rigid holder and will float longitudinally.
• If you want to continue to use your current collets, floating tap holders are available. These holders are longer than the standard holders and more expensive than the floating tap collets.