So, what are threaded inserts used for? Once inserted into a suitably sized hole, they allow the further insertion of screws and bolts, giving them an important role in the toolkits of builders, carpenters, and engineers.

Threaded brass inserts are durable and offer a significant level of resistance to corrosion. Brass is, in fact, more resistant to corrosion than stainless steel, making it a good choice in operating environments likely to be exposed to water.

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Threaded inserts are sometimes classed as ‘thread-in’ and ‘press-in’, meaning they are either screwed into place or pressed into place.

ISO metric screws are designated with the letter M, for millimetres, followed by the major diameter of the thread. This is the longest gap between the uppermost part of each thread (the crest). So, for example, M8 indicates a major diameter of eight millimetres.

Here’s how to install a threaded insert using a drill. The packaging should indicate the required depth of the drill hole. Typically, this will be 8.5-9mm.

To install a threaded insert, you will need a drill and a matching installation tool, also known as an install tap. The latter are usually specific to the insert manufacturer. Alternatively, a matching threaded screw or tap bolt can be used to drive the insert into place. Tap bolts, also known as cap screws, are used for drilling directly into hard or soft materials.

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Threaded inserts for rubber are not as common as those for wood and metal but when used they can be applied via simple insertion or by placing them into a mould. Heated rubber is then injected where it will harden into place, encasing the insert.

Because metals like aluminium and steel are harder than wood, thread inserts for metal feature external as well as internal threading to make insertion and removal easier. The outer threads on the metal insert are matched to the existing threading within the hole. They are commonly used in sheet metal.

Threaded inserts are metal cylinders with internal or external threads running down their entire length. They are inserted into holes which have been drilled into walls or other materials like metal, wood, or plastic. Their function is to enable the insertion of screws or bolts and make it a relatively straightforward process to remove them for later reuse. They are efficient fasteners and are also used to reinforce or repair existing threads. Once inserted, inserts grip firmly.

Stainless steel is a carefully calibrated alloy. An admixture of 11 per cent chromium prevents corrosion and makes the material more resistant to heat. Stainless steel inserts are versatile and used in wood, metal, and plastic.

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Thermoplastic materials are heat-sensitive and as a result, inserts are applied via the application of high temperatures. Once the insert has reached a specific temperature, it is pressed onto the plastic. The latter then melts around the insert before cooling.

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Threaded inserts are available in a variety of sizes and materials for full compatibility with different tasks. Let’s look at some of the principal types of threaded inserts.

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Timber, hardwood, and plywood can be used with threaded inserts. Both press-in and thread-in inserts can be used. Adhesive is commonly added too.

The most used international screw thread standard is the ISO metric screw thread, as defined by international standard 68-1.

Threaded steel inserts offer a good level of corrosion resistance, but their strengths extend further. They are especially robust in response to vibration and rotational pressure.

Industry applications for threaded inserts include many fields where parts need to be joined together or fastened securely. Some examples include:

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Passivation is the application of a protective coating to a material to make it more passive - less reactive to its environment. If this coating is entirely or mainly transparent, it is referred to as clear passivation.

Variations in pitch can also be indicated with a multiplication sign. For example, M8x1 would indicate a major diameter of eight millimetres with a change in pitch of one millimetre per rotation.

Threaded inserts are available with a range of thread sizes for compatibility with differently sized screws and bolts. Whether inserted into wood or metal, a threaded insert needs to match the diameter and threading of the screw or bolt that it will host.