Thread inserts may be tiny, but they make a huge difference when you are working with aluminum materials. There are a lot of aluminum-containing things, such as airplanes, cars, and even some of our toys. But aluminum can be a bit finicky in some cases, especially if you are trying to screw things deeply into it. That’s where threaded inserts come in really handy!
When we screw things into and out of aluminum several times over, the threads can wear away or even rip out. This can be very difficult when working to keep things in place or have them hold secure. And here’s where thread inserts come in handy! Thread inserts are sort of small reinforcements that can make threads in aluminum stronger and longer-lasting. They distribute the screw’s force more thinly so the screw is less likely to strip the aluminum. This could be key to ensuring our toys, cars and other aluminum products have longer life spans!
In the same way that the soles of our shoes wear down over time, so the threads on aluminum tend to wear down. This can also make it difficult for screws to remain where you want them, and even cause them to fall out. With thread inserts, however, we can preserve those threads from wearing much too quickly. Thread inserts are the equivalent of little side plates that absorb the blow of the force from screws and protect the threads of the aluminum. This is great news for us, because it means that we can continue playing with our toys and other aluminum stuff for much longer without fearing they will crumble!
We have several types of thread inserts we can use with aluminum. Some are metallic, such as stainless steel, and some are made of special materials such as nylon or even plastic. Different types of thread insert come with their own strengths and weaknesses, so it’s important to choose the one that’s right for the job. Some thread inserts work best if you’re assembling something heavy duty, and others are best for more lightweight things, like toys or electronics. Whatever it is we’re trying to thread, there’s a thread insert that’s ready and willing to help us do the job properly!
Occasionally our aluminum threads get messed up. Could be we inadvertently cross-threaded a screw, or just that the threads went bad after a while. Whatever the reason, stripped screws can make it very difficult to screw anything in correctly. But thanks to thread inserts, there is a way for damaged threads to be repaired! One of our best threaded insert system we offer inserts which can be screwed into the damaged threads, while repairing them at the same time to form a new, stronger threaded insert. Which is great, because it means we don’t have to worry about screws falling out or stuff getting loose. It's like our aluminum parts get a 2nd life to perform like new!
