Thread Repair Inserts Repair Stainless Steel Wire Thread Insert for Aluminum

Description

What Are Thread Repair Inserts?

Thread repair inserts are precision helical coils or solid sleeves designed to restore damaged threads in metal, plastic, or composite materials. They provide a permanent, wear-resistant threaded interface that often exceeds the strength of the original thread, enabling the reuse of critical components instead of costly replacements.

Thread Repair Inserts: Specifications

1. Material

• Stainless Steel (304/316): Corrosion-resistant for marine/chemical applications

• Carbon Steel (Grade 8): High tensile strength for industrial machinery

• Phosphor Bronze: Anti-galling for aluminum housings

• Nylon/PEEK: Non-conductive, lightweight alternatives

2. Surface Treatment

• Zinc-Nickel Plating: 1,000+ hrs salt spray resistance (ASTM B117)

• PTFE Impregnation: Self-lubricating for dynamic loads

• Passivation (Stainless): Enhanced oxide layer for medical devices

• Black Oxide: Reduced glare for military optics

3. Common Specifications

• Thread Standards: Metric (M2-M48), UNC/UNF (#0-1″), BSP/NPT

• Installation Types:

  • Helical Coil (e.g., Helicoil®): For light/medium duty

  • Solid Bushings (e.g., Timesert®): For high-torque applications

  • Key-Locking: Vibration-resistant (e.g., Keensert®)

• Standards: NASM 33537, DIN 8140

4. Applications

• Aerospace: Engine case thread repairs

• Automotive: Cylinder head spark plug threads

• Medical: Implant instrument threading

• Energy: Wind turbine gearbox housing

Excellent Case: Heavy-Duty Mining Excavator Swing Bearing

Challenge:
A 200-ton hydraulic excavator developed stripped M36x4 threads in its swing bearing housing after 15,000 operating hours. Replacement would cost $85,000 with 3-week downtime.

Solution:

• Installed grade 8 carbon steel key-locking inserts (Timesert® style):

  • Torque Capacity: 1,200 N·m (vs original 800 N·m)

  • Installation Time: 8 hours vs 5 days for housing replacement

  • Corrosion Protection: Zinc-nickel plating resisted acidic mine slurry

Results:

• Restored equipment to 100% load capacity

• Extended housing lifespan by 7+ years

• Saved $78,000 vs full replacement

Key Advantages

✔ Cost Savings – 90% less than component replacement
✔ Enhanced Strength – Thread strength improved up to 200%
✔ Versatile – Repair cast iron, aluminum, even plastics