Thermic & Ultrasonic Installation Inserts
TH Type brass threaded inserts are specifically designed to provide strong, durable metal threads in thermoplastic materials. Installed using either a thermal (heat insertion) or ultrasonic process, these inserts create a highly secure bond within the plastic while minimizing stress on the surrounding material.
Unlike molded-in inserts, TH Type inserts can be installed after the plastic component has been manufactured, offering greater flexibility in production while delivering comparable performance. They are ideal for applications requiring high pull-out resistance, excellent torque performance, and reliable long-term fastening.
How Thermic & Ultrasonic Installation Works
During installation, heat or ultrasonic energy softens the plastic around the insert, allowing the material to flow into the insert's precision-engineered knurls and grooves. Once cooled, the plastic solidifies around the insert, creating an exceptionally strong mechanical bond.
This process provides many of the advantages of overmolded inserts while eliminating the need to place inserts during the molding process.
Installation Methods
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Thermic (Heat) Installation using a heated insertion tool
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Ultrasonic Installation using a sonotrode and ultrasonic equipment
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Overmolding during the plastic injection molding process
Key Benefits
- Creates strong and durable metal threads in thermoplastic materials
- Reduces stress concentrations within the surrounding plastic
- Excellent resistance to pull-out forces
- High torque resistance for repeated assembly and disassembly
- Suitable for post-molding installation
- Compatible with a wide range of thermoplastics
- Precision knurled design for enhanced grip and retention
- Can also be overmolded during production
- Available in metric thread sizes for engineering applications
Material & Finish
Material: Brass (CuZn40Pb3, CuZn39Pb3, or CuZn36Pb3)
Optional finishes available for specialist applications:
- Tin plated
- Nickel plated
- Black zinc plated
- Other custom finishes available on request
Applications
TH Type inserts are widely used in:
- Plastic housings and enclosures
- Consumer electronics
- Automotive components
- Electrical equipment
- Medical devices
- Telecommunications equipment
- Industrial machinery
- 3D printed thermoplastic components
Installation Guidelines
For optimum performance:
- Position the insert in the pre-molded or drilled hole.
- Apply controlled heat or ultrasonic energy.
- Allow the plastic to soften and flow around the insert knurls.
- Apply measured insertion pressure until fully seated.
- Allow the component to cool naturally before handling.
Important Notes
- The plastic should be softened, not fully melted.
- Excessive heat may damage the surrounding material.
- Insertion pressure should be carefully controlled to allow proper material flow.
- Components should not be disturbed immediately after installation.
- A full cooling period of approximately 12 to 20 hours is recommended for many thermoplastic materials to achieve maximum holding performance.
Why Choose TH Type Heat Set Inserts?
TH Type inserts provide a cost-effective and reliable solution for creating reusable threaded connections in thermoplastics. Their optimized knurl pattern and installation flexibility make them ideal for manufacturers seeking strong thread performance, high pull-out resistance, and efficient assembly processes.
Product Summary
TH Type Brass Heat Set Threaded Inserts provide strong, reusable metal threads in thermoplastic materials through thermal or ultrasonic installation. Designed for excellent pull-out and torque resistance, these inserts offer a reliable post-molding fastening solution for plastic components across industrial, automotive, electronic, and consumer applications.
