Threaded Inserts.

What are Threaded Inserts?

Threaded inserts are essential assembly components designed to add durable, secondary threaded holes to materials that may otherwise be too soft or brittle to hold a thread themselves. Whether for creating a robust fastening point in wood, enhancing thread strength in softer metal parts, or providing long-lasting threads in softer materials like plastic, threaded inserts play a critical role in ensuring secure and reliable assemblies.

From industrial machinery and 3D printing to furniture manufacturing, threaded inserts are a trusted choice when durability, precision and load-bearing performance are paramount.

How Threaded Inserts Work

Threaded inserts are installed into pre-drilled holes using specialised heat press tools or self-tapping designs. Once in place, they offer a strong, reusable thread for screws or bolts. Depending on the application, inserts may feature knurled, helical or flanged designs to enhance grip and prevent rotation or pull-out. For example, brass threaded inserts are primarily designed to be heat set into plastics or electronic housings, while threaded wood inserts ensure a firm hold in worktops and furniture joints.

Their ability to extend the life of components and streamline maintenance makes them a cost-effective choice for both new assemblies and repairs over using self-tapping screws.

Materials Threaded Inserts Are Made From

Accu's selection of inserts is manufactured from materials that enhance their durability and application-specific benefits.

Available options include brass, perfect for use in thermoplastics thanks to its thermal conductivity, ideal for electronics and 3D prints. A2 stainless steel, providing superior strength and rust resistance, suitable for heavier-duty or outdoor applications in plastic, metal and wood. Finally, zinc alloy combines cost-effectiveness with moderate strength and corrosion resistance, ideal for light-duty applications in primarily wood.

Each material caters to a unique set of requirements, ensuring the right choice for every project.

Sizes and Types of Threaded Inserts Available

Our threaded inserts are available in metric sizes ranging from M3 (3mm) to M20 (20mm), with lengths/depths from 6mm to 27mm. This variety ensures compatibility with a wide range of precision fasteners.

The range encompasses several subtypes tailored to different parent materials and applications such as press-fit threaded inserts for plastic, wood and metals. These variants provide versatile solutions for industries such as automotive, aerospace, furniture, 3D printing and even DIY projects.

FAQs

Q: When not to use threaded inserts?

A: Threaded inserts may not be suitable when the base material is too thin to support the insert, in this case, we'd recommend taking a look at our range of rivet nuts. Additionally, in plastics, you could also explore our selection of Polyfix screws, specifically designed for self-tapping into plastics.

Q: How do you install threaded inserts?

A: The installation process depends on the type of threaded insert. Some inserts are self-tapping and can be screwed directly into a pilot hole in the material, while others require specialised tools like an insertion press or a heat-setting tool for plastic inserts.

Q: Are threaded inserts stronger than screws?

A: Yes, threaded inserts are typically stronger than screws when installed correctly, especially in softer materials like wood or plastic. They distribute the load over a wider area, reducing the risk of stripping and providing a more durable thread for repeated use.

Q: How thick should a wall be for a threaded insert?

A: The required wall thickness depends on the type and size of the threaded insert, as well as the material it’s being installed into. To ensure optimal performance and avoid issues like cracking or pull-out, refer to the product’s technical specifications for guidance tailored to your chosen insert and application.

Bespoke Threaded Inserts Manufacture.

High precision, bespoke manufacture of Threaded Inserts to customer specification. State of the art facilities specialising in both small batch prototyping and large scale manufacture.