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Threaded Inserts
Innovative Threaded Inserts
We are proud to offer you a diverse range of innovative threaded inserts here at Metrol. Our range includes key-locking threaded inserts, custom self-tapping threaded inserts and custom wire-threaded insert solutions. All with easy installation; no specialised tools or drills are required.
Our key-locking solutions come with internal insert sizes ranging from M2x0.4 to M24x3 and all are manufactured from stainless steel 1.4305/AISI 303. They are suitable for use in sheet metal, including steel and aluminium, as well as in hardwood and other materials.
Ordering & Support from Metrol
We have a threaded inserts catalogue called Metserts, which is available for download. It has additional information about the threaded insert products and services available at Metrol. We invite you to browse this catalogue and the threaded insert categories on this website so that you may find threaded inserts that match your application.
You can receive free shipping on standard (1 to 2 working days) UK mainland orders over £80. Orders under £80 have a £6.95 delivery fee. We also have express delivery and international delivery options available.
For any assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact our experienced team on 01604 499 332 or fill out our enquiry form.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Threaded Insert?
Composed of an internally and externally threaded cylindrical metal part, threaded inserts are designed to provide a strong threaded connection between two different panels or components. Self-tapping variations do not require a pre-drilled hole for installation whereas key-locking options do, but these threaded inserts have ‘keys’ which lock into the side of the installation hole, making them highly resistant to vibrations and rotational forces. At Metrol, key-locking inserts are available in our thin-wall and heavy duty ranges, offering you threaded insert solutions for a diverse range of applications.
What Are Threaded Inserts Used For?
Threaded inserts are used for a wide range of applications. Some of the common uses are:
- To replace pre-existing inserts or fixings with damaged or striped threads. The inserts provided by Metrol are extremely durable and can withstand numerous loosening and tightening cycles without thread stripping.
- To create strong connection points between panels and/or components.
- To offer a durable threading connection point in a material that would be too soft or otherwise unsuitable for direct threading (plastic sheets for example).
- To reduce the risk of rotational forces on connection integrity, particularly by using key-locking solutions.
How Are Threaded Inserts Installed?
The installation process does vary slightly depending on whether you are installing self-tapping or key-locking threaded inserts. However, both installation methods are easy. Our Metserts threaded-insert catalogue contains both installation and removal instructions that will assist you in your installation process. We are also available to contact, should you need any further assistance at this stage.
Are Specialist Tools Needed for Threaded Insert Installation?
When you install inserts from Metrol, no specialised tools such as drills or pre-winders are needed. Standard tools can fulfil installation and removal processes, however, we do offer key-locking installation tools which may assist with the process and make it a little smoother. They are available for different insert sizes.
Which Industries Require Threaded Inserts?
Threaded inserts are ubiquitous and used across several industries. Day to day they may not be seen but are responsible for secure attachments in buildings, equipment and objects. Some of the industries they are used in are be listed below:
- Mechanical Engineering
- Precision Engineering
- Aerospace
- Automotive
- Electronics
- Furniture
- Industrial
- Construction & Building
- Indoor Climbing Walls
These industries all benefit from the strength and durability that threaded inserts provide when used to fix components and panels together.
What Are the Benefits of Using Threaded Inserts?
When considering the benefits of using threaded inserts, it is useful to compare their functionality to alternative fixing methods. Bolts, screws and nails, on their own if used to secure components or panels, rely on the structural integrity of the surrounding sheet/panel/component material. Over time, if this material is not strong or subject to any degree of forces, the fixing strength will weaken and the threads in the material will wear and become stripped. Having a threaded insert, ensures that the material is strengthened with its presence and not weakened. This is particularly evident when they are used in materials such as plastic or plywood.
Threaded inserts also increase longevity and durability in applications where fixings need to be added and removed frequently. The thread on threaded inserts is much more hardwearing than the thread that would be incurred in the materials being fixed together without using an insert.
Threaded inserts also resist rotational forces particularly well which is important when using industrial screws and bolts which functionally rely on rotational forces being resisted by their housing and mated parts.
