Automotive To Aerospace: The Diverse Applications Of Helicoil Inserts

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Stripped threads are one of the most annoying and frustrating occurrences in any engineering or manufacturing project. Whether it’s caused by rushing to get things done, using the wrong tool, or simply due to material failure, once it happens it can lead to a whole range of further problems that need solving before you can progress. While male threads are usually easy enough to replace, female threads in some machine parts, such as cylinder heads or crank cases, can pose much more of a challenge. This can mean reaching for the welder or re-machining certain parts. But there is an alternative: the Helicoil insert.

You may be asking yourself the question: what is a Helicoil insert? They are helically wound, precision-formed coils of wire with a diamond-shaped cross-section. They are used in a wide range of applications and industries such as automotive, aerospace, electronics and industrial machinery.

Advantages Of A HeliCoil

There are several advantages of using a Helicoil, including providing high-strength threads in softer materials, extending the lifespan of threaded assemblies, and allowing for thread repair instead of replacing entire components.

There are also a number of different Helicoil options available, designed for specific fixes and purposes, such as the Helicoil free running and screw lock options. All variants are designed to provide exceptional wear resistance with reduced friction torque. In fact, torsion stress is significantly reduced when compared to tapped threads. Here are several instances showcasing the diverse applications where Helicoil can bring significant benefits to different industries…

Enhanced Thread Strength in Soft Materials

Helicoil inserts are particularly beneficial in materials that are inherently soft or weak, such as aluminium or plastic. They enable these materials to accommodate high-stress loads that would otherwise strip the original threads. For example, in automotive applications, Helicoils are often used in aluminium engine blocks where the strength of the thread is crucial for the vehicle's performance and safety.

Durability And Longevity

By redistributing the load across the entire length of the insert, Helicoils significantly extend the life of threaded assemblies. This is crucial in aerospace applications, where the longevity and reliability of components are paramount, and any failure can have dire consequences.

Resistance To Corrosion And Heat

Helicoils made from materials like stainless steel are inherently resistant to corrosion, which is essential in environments exposed to chemicals or saltwater, such as in marine engineering. Additionally, their ability to maintain integrity in fluctuating temperatures makes them ideal for electronic and aerospace industries where thermal expansion could be a concern.

Reduced Wear And Tear

The smooth surface and precise design of Helicoils lead to less friction and therefore less wear and tear. This is especially important in high-vibration environments such as heavy machinery, where constant movement can quickly degrade traditional threads.

Wondering how a Helicoil insert works? Well, it's actually quite simple. First, you screw in the coil using a special tool and tap-wrench. Once it's securely in place, you can unscrew the tool. Now, there's a tang left at the bottom of the insert, which you can easily remove by giving it a quick tap with a punch. This tang is designed with a small nick, ensuring a clean snap-off. And voila! The hole is now refreshed and ready for drilling.

As well as rivets, we also stock a range of other fasteners and repair options, such as the Helicoil and more. Don’t let worn-out or weak threads compromise your project – explore the enduring power of Helicoil inserts at Rivetwise today!