Threading and inserts
Twist(ed) well.
A ready-to-use product. That is what we make at Parts On Demand. Sometimes we print a part assembled, sometimes it is better to place an insert. We are happy to advise the best and most reliable solution for you.
Day in and day out, our clever engineers develop smart solutions. Parts that are fitted with a nipple, a bus or a wire. You don’t have to wrap your mind around that anymore, you can be assured of a high-quality product. That’s what we do!
Starting from size M8, you can print threads in certain orientations. But yes, of course there are plenty smaller thread sizes. You know that, we know that. In those cases, it is better to tap them. Or use an insert.
Tapping is an excellent solution for limited use or use in Carbon 11. We cut the thread using a special tapping implement. Resulting in a neat and straight thread.
If you have a very complex part, we may have to make a special tool for it. No worries, this does not scare off our engineers. Guess what? They can print that out for you in no time.
Connections that have to be loosened and fastened very frequently? In that case it is wiser to use inserts. Inserts are threaded metal bushings that we insert into your part. This way you don’t have to worry about accidentally ‘stripping’ the thread. Should you or your colleagues with their big muscles tighten the bolts too tightly once again. You know.
Muscles. We have the experience.
Need to knows for your design:
| Pay attention to | Wall thicknesses! Make sure you have enough ‘meat’ to thread or insert. At least 2 mm on the radius is our advice. |
| Production time | Minimum of five additional working days |
| POD’s tips | Contact one of our engineers to discuss your application. You ask, we thread! |
Do you have any burning questions?
It may be true that 3D printing hasn’t been used as long for production as turning, milling or injection molding. As an engineer, maybe you don’t really have that ‘feel’ with printed parts yet. And you are not confident about how 3D printed products hold up in your machines. We fully understand that! And we will help ease your mind.
So: do you have a 3D printed application in mind? Use a 3D printed part and taste the pudding? See if it will hold up? Then contact Neil for a free sample. On the house!