When plastic needs metal!
An essential component in injection molding, threaded inserts offer a robust solution for creating durable and reliable threads in molded plastic parts.
These threaded inserts are typically made of metal such as brass or stainless steel and are embedded into plastic parts to provide strong, wear-resistant threaded holes. This is crucial because plastic alone, while versatile and lightweight, lacks the mechanical strength needed for repeated assembly and disassembly of threaded fasteners.
By integrating threaded inserts, manufacturers such as ADIS Tachov s.r.o. ensure that the plastic components can endure higher torque and tensile loads without stripping or deforming, significantly enhancing the overall longevity and performance of the product.
The process of actually incorporating them into the parts can be achieved through several methods, such as ultrasonic insertion, heat staking, or most commonly during the molding process itself.
Ultrasonic insertion uses ultrasonic vibrations to generate heat through friction, allowing the insert to be embedded into the plastic as it softens. Heat staking involves heating the insert and pressing it into the plastic, where it cools and solidifies, locking the insert in place. Insert molding integrates the inserts into the plastic during the actual molding process and therefore ensures a seamless bond as the plastic cools and hardens around the insert. Each method has specific applications and benefits, and is typically chosen based on factors like production volume, material compatibility, and required strength.
The importance of threaded inserts in plastic injection molding extends beyond just the mechanical benefits however. They also contribute to the versatility and functionality of the final product. In applications where assembly and maintenance are frequent, such as in automotive components, threaded inserts provide superbly reliable and secure fastening points. This reliability reduces the risk of product failure and enhances user safety.
If you’re designing a part that may require easy disassembly and reassembly of parts, frequent repairs, or just a longer product lifespan, get in touch with the team at ADIS Tachov s.r.o. who can guide you through the best approach to obtain the perfect integrity and usability of your products.
