3D Plastic Inserts: How to Create Strong Threads in Soft Materials

In the sector of 3d printing and processing of plastic materials, one of the most common problems concerns the creation of threads resistant and long-lasting. Plastic, although a versatile and lightweight material, has a low mechanical resistance compared to metals. This means that threads made directly on plastic tend to wear out quickly, risking losing effectiveness after just a few uses.

A reliable solution to this problem is represented by the 3D plastic inserts, brass components designed to improve the stability and durability of threaded connections in plastic materials. These inserts allow for stronger joints, making it possible to use standard screws without compromising the strength of the plastic.

The use of threaded inserts It is particularly advantageous in printed components in 3D, where the mechanical properties of the material may be insufficient to support repeated fastenings. Thanks to their metal structure, the inserts improve tensile and torsional resistance, increasing the duration and quality of the threads.

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In this article we will analyze the main ones types of inserts, the methods of installation, advantages that they offer and their uses in various industrial sectors.

Types of 3D Plastic Inserts

- 3D plastic inserts are available in different variants, designed to adapt to different plastic materials and specific installation methods. The choice of the most suitable type depends on factors such as the mechanical strength request, fixing method and use environment.

Press-in inserts

- pressure inserts are designed to be inserted directly into the plastic without the need for heat or specialized tools. They are mounted by applying pressure to the piece, ensuring a good mechanical fixing. They are ideal for soft plastics such as ABS and polypropylene.

Self-tapping inserts

- self-tapping inserts, also known as self-tapping, are designed to be screwed directly into the plastic material, creating its own thread. They offer a increased tensile strength and can be installed with a simple screwdriver.

Inserts for co-molding

These inserts are embedded in the plastic during the manufacturing process. injection molding. Being incorporated into the structure of the material, they offer a level of resistance superior to torsion and traction.

Helical inserts (Helicoil®)

- helical inserts, spiral, are used to repair damaged threads or to create new, strong threads within plastic components. They offer excellent wear resistance and can be easily removed and replaced.

3D Plastic Insert Installation Methods

The durability and effectiveness of an insert also depends on the installation method used. There are different techniques for fixing the 3D plastic inserts, each with specific advantages.

Hot installation

This technique involves heating the insert to a temperature sufficient to to laminate the surrounding plastic. Once inserted, the plastic cools and solidifies around the insert, creating a permanent blocking.

Ultrasonic installation

With the use of high frequency vibrations, the insert is inserted into the plastic material without the need for external heat. The heat generated by friction allows the plastic to melt and adapt perfectly to the shape of the insert.

Pressure installation

The push-fit inserts are pushed into a pre-formed hole in the plastic material. This method is quick and cheap, but offers less resistance than other techniques.

Self-tapping installation

Self-tapping inserts screw directly into plastic, creating a strong, durable thread. This method is ideal for plastic materials. thermosets and rigid thermoplastics.

Advantages of using 3D plastic inserts

The use of 3D plastic inserts offers a series of advantages compared to threads made directly in the plastic material:

• Greater resistance: the metal structure of the inserts improves tensile and torsional resistance.
• Durability over time: Reinforced threads withstand repeated stress without wearing out.
• Precision in threads: they guarantee a better coupling with the screws and reduce the risk of accidental loosening.
• Possibility of disassembly and maintenance: the joints can be opened and closed without damaging the plastic support.
• Ease of installation: the inserts are applied with different techniques, adapting to various production processes.

Applications of 3D plastic inserts

- threaded inserts are used in various industrial sectors to improve the resistance of plastic components. Among the most common applications we find:

• Electronics: used in electronic device casings to ensure secure fastenings.
• The automotive sector: used in dashboards, supports and plastic components of automobiles.
• 3D PRINTING: improve the quality and mechanical resistance of prototypes and functional parts.
• Medical: found in plastic tools and devices to ensure long-lasting connections.
• Design and furniture: used to assemble plastic furniture with solid fixings.

The integration of 3D plastic inserts in printed components not only improves the thread strength, but also ensures greater quality and reliability of the final products. Thanks to their versatility, these inserts represent an effective solution for various industrial applications, allowing to overcome the mechanical limits of plastic materials.