Wire Threaded Inserts

Free Running Inserts

Our standard free running wire thread inserts are produced from Austenitic Stainless Steel wire, which is cold drawn (profiled) to form a diamond-shaped wire. This wire is then helically coiled to produce the wire thread insert.

Larger in diameter than the tapped hole, the insert is compressed during installation to ensure maximum surface contact between the flanks of the wire insert and tapped threads. Once fitted, the action of the radial pressure between the insert's coils and flanks of the tapped hole holds them in place securely.

The flexibility of our inserts enhances load bearing capacity by deflecting the residual forces into a helical direction, which is dispersed into the wall of the tapped hole.

Screw Locking Inserts

These screw locking inserts have all of the advantages of a free running type plus the additional benefit of prevailing locking torque, which makes them a valuable and reliable choice for use in applications subject to cyclic vibration or impact.

The locking torque is achieved by the action of a polygonal grip coil in the insert that exerts radial pressure on the male thread, with each grip coil consisting of a number of tangential locking chords that protrude inside the minor diameter of the normal free running coils. As the male thread passes through these grip coils, the locking flats are displaced, thereby exerting radial pressure and prevailing locking torque on the male thread.

On removal of the male thread, the locking coil relaxes to its original form, allowing for repeated assembly whilst retaining a measurable level of prevailing torque.

Note: It is recommended that only close fit plated or lubricated bolts and screws are used with screw locking inserts. Pre-wind tools must be used to install locking inserts.

Wire Thread Inserts

Sometimes referred to by the brand names of Helicoil® or Recoil®, helically-coiled wire thread inserts are a thread strengthening fastening device used to create high strength fastenings in softer core materials. The high performance internal thread provided by our wire inserts is far stronger than most parent materials, and is also heat, corrosion, and wear resistant too.

Available in a huge variety

Manufactured wire inserts in free running and screw locking types in a huge range of sizes and lengths in Metric, Unified, and British Standard thread forms. Made from aircraft quality 304/A2 stainless steel wire, we can also offer stock and supply inserts in a range of alternative materials and finishes, each of which have their own unique benefits. We can also apply colouring to inserts too, which is often requested by customers for identification purposes.

If you can't find what you are looking for, or if you need a quote for a special item to be manufactured please contact us - we'll be happy to help.