This is in order to provide a robust thread in moulded/fabricated plastic components, where the softness of the substrate precludes a tapped thread.
Threaded inserts are a favourite for use throughout industry where they can provide a quick thread just by drilling or moulding a pilot hole and pressing the insert into place – in electronic/electrical application brass inserts offer good tensile properties, excellent corrosion-resistance and good electrical conductivity.
A well-known and much used solution to fixing onto non-metals, threaded inserts can often provide higher torque or pull out performance by the application of heat or ultrasonic energy to further embed the insert into its substrate.
Expansion and self-tapping inserts are available in brass for use in plastics or in the case of wood, some composite materials and lightweight castings in aluminium or other alloys where steel and stainless self-tapping inserts can be supplied.
Inserts in die cast zinc, steel, brass or stainless steel may be push-fit or inserted by self-tapping thread cutting, others may be moulded in place.
Externally threaded inserts from Challenge Europe also include helical inserts, often used for thread repair or to provide a higher-performance thread form than might otherwise be possible.
