Threaded inserts – find manufacturers and suppliers

Thread inserts, also known as helicoils or threaded bushes, are special components that are used in materials with low strength, such as plastics or soft metals, to create a resilient internal thread.

They are used to extend the service life of threads, to repair damaged threads or to create a robust thread in new components from the outset.

Below is an overview of the installation, variants and use of thread inserts, as well as an overview of their advantages.

Installation of thread inserts:

1. Preparation:
   A suitable hole is drilled into the base material and, if necessary, a thread is pre-cut (except for self-tapping inserts).
   The hole must meet the specifications of the respective thread insert.
2. Inserting the threaded insert:
   For wire thread inserts, the insert is screwed in using a special tool.
   Solid metal and self-tapping inserts are either screwed in or pressed in.
3. Reworking:
   protruding parts of the threaded insert are milled off or ground smooth, if necessary, to obtain a flush surface.

Variants of threaded inserts:

1. Wire thread inserts (helicoils):
   Consist of a spiral-shaped wire that is screwed into a pre-drilled hole. They are inexpensive and significantly increase the strength of the thread. Wire thread inserts are often used in the aerospace, automotive and electronics industries
2. Solid metal threaded inserts:
   Fixed inserts made of metal, usually with an external knurling or external thread.
   They have a high load capacity and are ideal for frequent screwing and unscrewing. Solid metal threaded inserts are used in applications where high tensile strength and resistance to tearing are required.
3. Self-tapping thread inserts:
   These inserts cut their own thread into the base material such as plastic or soft metals when screwed in. They have the advantage of easy installation and do not require preforming of the thread.
4. Self-locking thread inserts:
   These are inserts with a special mechanism that prevents screws from loosening. They offer increased security against unintentional loosening and self-locking threaded inserts are often found in applications exposed to vibrations, such as in motors or machines.
5. Repair thread inserts:
   Are threaded inserts specifically designed to repair damaged or stripped threads. Repair thread inserts are used to repair damaged threads in metal or plastic parts.

Use of thread inserts:

1. Reinforcement of threads:
In soft materials such as aluminum, magnesium or plastic, thread inserts create stable and durable threads that can withstand repeated screwing and unscrewing.
Mainly used for housings, covers, fixing points in appliances and machines.

2. Repair of damaged threads:
Thread inserts are used to repair defective or worn threads in components, making the component reusable.
For example, in the repair of motor housings, gearboxes and mechanical devices.

3. Creating corrosion resistance:
Threaded inserts made of corrosion-resistant materials (e.g. stainless steel) provide protection against corrosion in aggressive environments such as maritime applications, chemical plants or outdoor applications.

4. Insulation and thermal expansion:
In electronic devices or components exposed to heat, threaded inserts are used to compensate for the difference in thermal expansion between the screw and the base material.

5. Increased load capacity:
By using thread inserts in heavy duty applications, mechanical engineering and aerospace, the tensile and shear strength of the thread can be increased, allowing higher forces to be transmitted.

Advantages of thread inserts:

• Extends the life of threads in soft or frequently used materials.
• Enables simple and cost-effective repair of damaged threads.
• Improves the tensile and shear strength of the thread, resulting in better load-bearing capacity.
• Use of corrosion-resistant materials protects against environmental influences.
• Provides solutions for a wide range of materials, from plastics to light metals.

Thread inserts are therefore versatile components that play a crucial role in numerous applications to increase the strength and durability of threads or to effectively repair damaged threads.

Below you will find an overview of the most important criteria that you should pay attention to when purchasing thread inserts:

When purchasing thread inserts, there are several important factors to consider to ensure they meet the requirements of your application.

• Choose the right type for your application and the right material for your requirements:
• Wire thread inserts (helicoils) are good for general purpose applications, especially for reinforcing or repairing threads in soft materials.
• Self-tapping thread inserts are particularly suitable for materials without a prefabricated thread, as they cut their own thread.
• Self-locking thread inserts are ideal for applications that require vibration resistance to prevent the screw from loosening.
• Full metal thread inserts are recommended for high load applications where maximum strength is required.
• Stainless steel is ideal for applications that require corrosion resistance and high strength, such as in marine or chemical environments.
• Bronze or brass are well suited for electronics and fine mechanics as they are soft and easy to machine.
• Carbon steel offers high strength but is susceptible to corrosion if not coated.
• Plastic is used for applications in non-metallic materials or where electrical insulation is required.
• Ensure that the internal thread of the insert matches the size of the screw to be used.
• The outer diameter must match the pre-drilled hole. This is particularly important for self-tapping inserts as it enables the new thread to be cut.
• The length of the threaded insert should match the thickness of the workpiece to ensure maximum durability and stability.
• For permanent fastenings, inserts that can withstand high mechanical loads should be selected.
• For repairs, it is important to choose a thread insert that can be easily inserted into a damaged thread and restore it.
• For vibration-prone applications, self-locking inserts are essential to prevent the connection from loosening.
• Some threaded inserts require special tools for installation (e.g. installation tools for helicoils). Check whether the required tools are available.
• Self-tapping inserts are easier to install as no preforming of the thread is necessary. Other inserts require pre-drilling and, if necessary, tapping.
• Depending on the application, the thread insert must be able to withstand high tensile forces without being pulled out.
• Torque resistance is particularly important in high-load applications to ensure that the insert does not fail under high loads.
• In humid, salty or chemically aggressive environments, inserts made of corrosion-resistant materials such as stainless steel should be used.
• If the insert is exposed to extreme temperatures, the material must be temperature-resistant.
• Make sure that the threaded inserts comply with the relevant international standards to ensure compatibility and quality.
• Make sure that the inserts come from certified manufacturers to ensure consistent quality.
• Cheap threaded inserts can be tempting to buy, but if they are not of the right quality, they can be more expensive in the long run, e.g. due to damage or frequent replacements.
• If you need large quantities or want to re-purchase over longer periods of time, check that the supplier offers these inserts on an ongoing basis.
• Make sure that the selected thread inserts are also available in the long term, especially for custom-made products.
• It is helpful if the manufacturer or supplier offers technical support, especially for special applications or installation problems.

When purchasing threaded inserts, the material, type of insert, size, application and environmental conditions should be carefully considered. It is important to select the correct inserts for the specific requirements of your application to ensure a durable and stable connection. Also, pay attention to the installation requirements and choose a supplier that offers quality, availability and support.

Threaded inserts can be purchased from various suppliers. Comprehensive information about manufacturers and suppliers of Threaded inserts from all over the world can be found on Exportpages.