Threaded Inserts Provide Strong Attachment Points in Plastic Assemblies
Threaded inserts make plastic assemblies strong and reusable.
In many ways threaded metal inserts in plastic provide the best of all possible worlds. On the one hand, you have the ease and flexibility of plastic construction. On the other, parts can be safely and securely fastened using machine screws, which means they can also be easily disassembled.
This can be especially valuable in applications like plastic housings for electrical components. In the event these products require maintenance, the housing can be removed or opened without damaging the housing itself. In contrast, when fastening with screws driven directly into plastic there is the danger of creating crossed or stripped threads every time the parts are rejoined. Because of this utility, threaded inserts can be found in everything from appliances to automobiles and toys, as well as in furniture, computer, aerospace, medical and defense applications.