Threaded Inserts for 3D printed parts
Stronger Threads for Production-Ready 3D Printed Parts
Need stronger threads in your 3D printed parts? Our threaded insert service adds durable brass or stainless steel inserts to SLS, MJF, SAF and TPU components, delivering reliable fastening, simplified assembly and production-grade performance from just £0.50 per insert.
Stronger Threads for Production-Ready 3D Printed Parts
Printed threads can often lead to assembly failures, wear over time, and increased design complexity. Our threaded insert installation service provides a reliable alternative, delivering strong, repeatable threads in your 3D printed parts while saving you time in both design and assembly.
We use only premium Tappex™ threaded inserts and professional insertion equipment, ensuring you get the highest quality finish, strength, and consistency, every time.
Unlike heat-set inserts, we use screw-in threaded inserts, which offer:
- Comparable strength
- Faster installation at scale
- Improved alignment and accuracy
- Lower overall cost
Why uses treaded inserts?
Stronger Threads
Significantly more durable than printed threads
Easy CAD Design
Simply model a hole - no need for complex thread geometry
Cost Effective
From just £0.50 per insert
Assembly Complete!
Save time and ensure consistent installation
Insert material options
Brass Inserts
Brass inserts are our most versatile and cost-effective option, suitable for the majority of applications.
Benefits:
- Excellent strength and durability
- Good corrosion resistance
- Ideal for general engineering and product applications
Specification:
- Tappex Trisert™ (double-ended, flangeless)
- No flange profile required in CAD
Stainless Steel Inserts
Stainless steel inserts are a premium option designed for demanding environments.
Best for:
- Marine environments
- Chemically aggressive conditions
- High-performance applications
Specification:
- Tappex Trisert 3™ (single-ended, flanged)
- Requires flange profile in CAD
Precision Installation Equipment
We use the Tappex ElecArm insertion machine, a rigid arm system designed for precision and repeatability.
Key benefits:
- Perfectly vertical installation (true to axis)
- Reduced risk of misalignment
- Faster, consistent results at scale
- Superior quality compared to manual or handheld tools
Design Requirements
To ensure optimal performance, please follow these critical design guidelines.
Key dimensions:
Additional Design Considerations
Insert Size Guide
(Custom table to be added in design phase – including D1, D2, B values per size and material)
Need help? If you’re unsure about your design or insert selection, our team can help ensure your parts are optimised for both printability and performance.
Risks & Best Practices
Surface Marking
Installation tools may leave marks around the insert
Least visible on:
- Shot peened finishes
- Polished surfaces
Thin-Walled Parts
- Installation pressure may damage delicate features
- Ensure adequate material around and below insert locations
Stripping
- Caused by incorrect hole sizing
- Always follow the recommended design specifications
Misalignment on Larger Parts
- Printing tolerances (±0.3%) can affect alignment on parts ~300mm+
- Recommended solution:
- Use oversized holes or slots in mating components
Ordering inserts is simple:
Upload your 3D files via our quoting portal
Select:
- Insert material
- Size
- Length
- Quantity per part
Upload a PDF or marked drawing showing insert locations
Other Finishing Options
Finish Options
| Finish | Min Thickness | Cost | SLS PA12 | MJF PA12 | SAF PA11 | SLS TPU | Express | Economy | Trade | Scheduled |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Natural | 1mm | Free | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Vibro Polished | 2mm | +2% | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Shot Peened | 1.5mm | +7% | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Vapour Smoothed | 1.5mm | 30p +10% | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Colour Options
| Colour | Min Thickness | Cost | SLS PA12 | MJF PA12 | SAF PA11 | SLS TPU | Express | Economy | Trade | Scheduled |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Black | 1.5mm | +10% | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Standard Colours | 1.5mm | £10 +10% | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ||||
| Custom Colours | 1.5mm | £60 + 10% | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |