What Are Screw Thread Inserts and How Are They Used?

Screw thread inserts are valuable components in a wide range of fastening applications, designed to provide a reliable means of securing bolts, screws, and other fasteners in materials that may not be able to offer support on their own. These inserts are small, cylindrical, and coil-like, with their placement being within pre-drilled holes to enhance threading and prevent damage during fastener installation. In this blog, we will explore the design and functionality of screw thread inserts, the most common types, and important factors to consider when selecting the right one for specific applications.

As already stated, the main purpose of screw thread inserts is to reinforce the threading of tapped holes, and they do this by acting as a more rigid or robust piece for other fasteners to be attached to. Generally, a threaded insert will have internal screw threading that will grip the external threading of correlating bolts or screws, allowing for a strong connection across multiple uses. In terms of their most common uses, threaded inserts are prevalent in plastics and light metals where loads can be more evenly spread by the device for optimal structural integrity.

While the strengthening of fastening points is one of the primary applications of screw thread inserts, they are also widely relied on for the repair of threading when a hole has become worn or damaged. Wear and tear to threading can be caused by a number of factors, including the frequent installation and removal of fasteners, damage from tools slipping, and exposure to the elements. Instead of discarding parts or components with stripped threads, this allows for the restoration of the fastening points, offering a more cost-effective solution. Using thread inserts for screw thread repair is especially valuable in maintenance-heavy environments like aerospace and automotive industries, where all assemblies and parts are often subject to high levels of stress over time.

There are several types of threaded inserts available on the market, each being designed for specific materials and applications. When working with soft metal components like aluminum or magnesium, one will generally use inserts made from stainless steel or other alloys that have high-load bearing characteristics. A common real-world example of this is within the aerospace industry, where stainless steel threaded inserts are often used on aircraft and other equipment to repair worn threading or safeguard surfaces.

When one is implementing or repairing the threading of plastic items, one will generally want to choose screw thread inserts that are more optimized for use with softer materials. Plastic threaded inserts are most often found in electronics, appliances, and consumer products, where lightweight and low-cost materials are most preferred. These inserts are also regularly designed with unique features like knurled or flanged bodies that increase their grip within the hole they are placed in, preventing the insert from loosening over time.

When selecting between various threaded inserts, it is crucial to consider the application and the type of material being used to determine the best option. One key factor to keep in mind is the load-bearing capability of the insert and if it matches the expected load of operations, as different materials offer varying levels of strength For example, stainless steel inserts provide a higher load-bearing capacity than their brass or plastic counterparts on average, making them more suitable for heavy-duty applications.

Another important consideration is the installation process. Some threaded inserts require special tools for insertion, such as installation kits with mandrels and taps. Others are self-tapping, meaning they can be installed directly into pre-drilled holes without the need for additional equipment. In addition to mechanical considerations, it is also important to evaluate the specific environment where the threaded fastener will be used, as some materials may be better than others with varied resistances and characteristics.

For customers seeking high-quality fastening devices and screw thread inserts, Internet of Hardware is your sourcing solution with a diverse selection of products that are available for purchase at any time. To explore our options, you can browse our curated catalogs or make use of our website’s search tools to narrow down exact items of interest. However you choose to locate part numbers, always take note that everything we feature is available for purchase at any time. For procurement options on any listings, fill out and submit a Request for Quote (RFQ) form through our website at your convenience, and a member of our staff will be in touch shortly after a review. You are also more than welcome to call or email directly, so be sure to get in touch today!