Tap-to-Tap Time is a vital operational metric in manufacturing and process industries, particularly in steel, metal, and foundry operations.

It fundamentally measures the total elapsed time required to produce a specific batch or unit, from the moment a new process begins (the 'tap' of molten metal or the start of loading) until the product is complete and ready for the next stage (the final 'tap' or unloading). It is a direct indicator of overall efficiency, capacity utilization, and energy consumption.