What Are Helical Inserts?

Helical inserts, also known as helicoil inserts or thread inserts, are a type of fastener used to create strong, wear-resistant threads in materials that might otherwise not sufficiently hold a screw or bolt due to being too soft or prone to damage. These inserts are typically made from coiled wire of a hard, durable material such as stainless steel, and they feature a helically coiled design.

As one of the leading Fastener suppliers in China, Xinchi is glad to introduce helical inserts, hoping it would be helpful.

Typical Use and Some Key Characteristics of Helical Inserts:

Reinforcing Threads: Helical inserts are primarily used to reinforce threads in softer materials like aluminum or magnesium. This allows these materials to handle high loads and stress without stripping the threads.

Repairing Stripped Threads: They are also frequently employed for repairing stripped or damaged threads in a hole. Once the damaged threads are removed or the hole is re-tapped, a helical insert can be installed to restore the threaded hole to a usable condition.

Creating Durable Threaded Holes: In aerospace, automotive, and manufacturing industries, helical inserts are used to ensure that threaded holes can withstand repeated assembly and disassembly without thread wear.

Types of Helical Inserts:

Free Running Inserts: These provide a smooth free-running thread.

Screw Lock Inserts: These have one or more convolutions in the coils that are designed to lock the screw in place, preventing it from loosening due to vibration or other forces.

Installation of Helical Inserts:

Drilling and Tapping: The existing material is first drilled and tapped according to the specifications of the insert.

Insert Installation: The helical insert is then screwed into the tapped hole using a specialized tool. The external threads of the insert mesh with the threads of the hole, and the internal threads provide a durable, threaded interface for the actual fastener (screw or bolt).

Finishing: In some cases, especially in permanent installations, the end of the insert is “staked” or otherwise secured to prevent it from turning or unwinding.

Materials of Helical Inserts:

It is commonly made from stainless steel, which provides strength and corrosion resistance. However, other materials can be used depending on the specific application requirements, such as reducing magnetic interference or enhancing electrical conductivity.

Advantages of Helical Inserts:

Increases load-bearing surface.

Highly effective in reducing wear and tear on threads.

Provides reliable and durable threads in materials that are otherwise unsuitable for threading.

Effective in high-temperature and high-pressure applications.

Helical inserts are versatile and extremely useful in extending the life of mechanical components, making them a critical tool in many industrial, automotive, and aerospace applications.

Xinchi is a trustworthy fastener company, especially in furniture nuts. We have a factory,  founded in 2007(Factory Video). And we are the designated fastener supplier to“STAPLE”. As a trusted fastener supplier,  Xinchi can offer a wide range of high-quality fasteners, including T nuts, screws, bolts, rivets, washers, etc. If you want to know more about fasteners or want to wholesale fasteners, please feel free to contact us. And then our experienced and expert service team will reply to you as soon as possible.