THREADED INSERTS FOR SOLVING ASSEMBLY PROBLEMS.

A threaded insert is a special type of fastener that acts as a tapped hole in both open and blind applications. It provides a strong, wear-resistant anchor for standard screws in weak materials, such as certain types of plastics and nonferrous metals. Threaded inserts themselves may be made from a wide variety of materials and finishes. They are used for a variety of reasons discussed in the article, and in specific product applications that range from heavy-duty farm and industrial equipment to precision bomb sights and microelectronics. Among the design factors to be considered are pullout strength, operating temperature, load requirement and shock/vibration. The article discusses these factors, along with types of inserts that include externally and nonexternally threaded, custom designs, and assembly procedures.