German manufacturer norelem is offering a range of self tapping threaded inserts in sizes M3 to M16
norelem says that whereas other threaded inserts may need a pre-moulded thread, its range of self-tapping threaded inserts can cut their own mating thread when screwing into light metals and plastics. The company claims that that they provide a secure anchor in the base material and that they provide a high pull-out performance.
Manufactured either from case-hardened steel (trivalent yellow passivated) or stainless-steel, norelem states that its range of threaded inserts are suitable for use with a variety of materials including aluminium, brass, bronze, cast iron, thermoset and thermoplastics.
They also are said to cater for materials with lower hardness and shear strength and are corrosion-resistant to withstand harsh operating environments. The conical-shaped threaded inserts with cutting slot tend to constrict slightly at the top when screwed in, allowing scrap material to be distributed evenly - depending on the dimension of the pilot hole and the hardness of the base material.
norelem says that its self-tapping threaded inserts can be installed through pre-drilled locating holes. Hand installation tools are available for small volumes, with machine installation tools available for mass production.