E-Z LOK Guide To Helical Inserts For Metal
In order to repair a stripped fitting, companies rely on helical inserts. Stripped and corroded threads can ruin your equipment and create unsafe operating conditions. The problem is only exacerbated in softer metals such as aluminum. Typically made of stainless steel, helical thread inserts are inexpensive and highly effective ways to repair a fastener connection.
Table of Contents
How Does A Helical Insert Work?
Helical thread inserts have many different names. They can be called everything from HeliCoil inserts and screw thread inserts (STIs) to helix coils or helical coil springs. A helical insert is a coiled wire that is used as a thread repair insert. The helical coil is placed inside of a threaded hole that has been damaged, corroded or stripped of its threads. The width of the coil is wider than the tapped hole and after insertion the outward pressure is used to lock them in place, creating a firm fastener for you.
How Do You Install A Helical Thread?
Installation of E-Z Coil™ helical inserts is simple and easy. Use one of our E-Z Coil™ kits to have everything you need for your helical inserts. The installation process follows a few basic steps:
1. Drill out the hole
Drill out the hole that your helical insert will be placed into. Make sure the area is free of debris before moving on.
2. Tap the hole
Create guide threads for your helical coil by tapping the hole with an STI tap. Take care to confirm that the thread width and pitch of the tap match the bolt you intend to use.
3. Insert the E-Z Coil™
Using the installation tool, place the E-Z Coil™ helical thread with the tang centered over the hole. Apply slight downward pressure and wind the helical coil insert into the hole. Turn until the helical thread insert is just below the surface (usually 1/4 to 1/2 turn).
4. Remove the tang
Place the tang break tool into the helical insert on top of the tang. Strike it firmly with a hammer. Note that some helical thread inserts are tangless and do not require this step.
Helical Thread Applications
Because helical coil inserts like the E-Z Coil™ provide an easy and convenient way to repair corroded or stripped threads, they are used in a number of diverse industries and applications. Thread reinforcement from helical coils makes them ideal when secure, strong connections are needed. You can find threaded inserts for metal being utilized by dozens of industries and sectors including:
- Automotive
- Medical
- Telecommunications
- Data Centers
- Electrical Engineering
- Aerospace
- Metal Fabrication
- Housing
This list is by no means exhaustive. Helical threads are used in everything from engine repair to furniture construction and home appliance manufacturing.
The Advantages Of Using Helical Inserts
Companies gain several advantages from using helical thread inserts. As we have discussed, helix coils are a cost-effective way to repair complex components and fix fastenings that have been stripped. Here are a few more advantages:
Protection From Wear
Helical thread inserts are wear-resistant and have high tensile strength. By reinforcing connection sites, helical coils lead to decreased torsion stress on bolts and reduce torque friction. This puts less stress on the threads themselves, leading to longer service lives.
Stronger Bonds
With proper installation, helical coil springs create permanent bonds between the bolt and the original fastening that are stronger than ever. Helical inserts make high-strength connection points in relatively low-strength materials like softer metals.
Corrosion Resistance
In many instances, the helical insert is more resistant to corrosion than the surrounding material. Stainless steel coils are resistant to corrosion and won't deteriorate from the environment. They are great at maintaining spring force under high temperatures and will not warp or wear from contact.
Shop E-Z LOK For Helical Thread Inserts
E-Z LOK is a leading supplier of helical inserts. Our solid wall threaded inserts are strong, easy to install and create tight seals once secured. Combined with our threaded insert tools, you can speed up your installation process and keep your projects moving. Find out how E-Z LOK helical thread inserts can improve your business by contacting us or visiting our knowledge base.
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