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.