Helicoil

Description

Helicoil is a coiled-wire thread insert made typically from stainless steel or other high-tensile materials. The insert has a diamond-shaped cross-section and is helically wound, which allows it to compress and expand when installed into a tapped hole. The outer coil of the helicoil grips the threads of the tapped hole (generally tapped with a special STI – Screw Thread Insert – tap), while the inner threads of the insert accept standard-sized fasteners.

Helicoils are designed to match the internal thread size of standard screws and bolts (e.g., M6, M8, M10) while requiring a larger tapped hole to accommodate the outer coil diameter.

Key Features of Helicoil

1. Material Strength: Most helicoils are made of stainless steel, although other materials like Inconel, phosphor bronze, or titanium can be used depending on the application.

2. Corrosion Resistance: Stainless steel helicoils provide excellent resistance to corrosion, especially in marine or chemical environments.

3. Thread Protection: Helicoils protect threads in aluminum or magnesium castings by reducing wear, stripping, and galling.

4. Versatility: They are available in metric and imperial sizes, coarse or fine threads, and in various lengths (typically 1D, 1.5D, 2D, and 3D where D is the diameter).

5. High Precision: Helicoils ensure the internal thread maintains tight tolerances and a consistent load distribution.

Advantages of Using Helicoils

1. Improved Thread Strength: Especially in soft base materials like aluminum, brass, or plastic, helicoils provide significantly higher strength and durability.

2. Wear Resistance: Repeated insertion and removal of bolts do not damage the original threads.

3. Corrosion Resistance: Especially when used in environments exposed to moisture, chemicals, or saltwater.

4. Cost-Effective Repairs: Stripped or damaged threads in expensive parts or castings can be quickly repaired using helicoils.

5. Vibration Resistance: Screw-locking helicoils prevent loosening due to dynamic stresses and vibration.

6. Lightweight Assembly: They allow the use of lightweight materials without sacrificing mechanical strength.

7. Heat Resistance: Suitable for high-temperature applications due to stainless steel construction.

Common Applications of  Helicoil

• Aerospace: Helicoils are crucial in aircraft frames, engine components, and turbine assemblies due to their strength and reliability.

• Automotive: Used in engine blocks, transmission cases, and spark plug threads to repair or reinforce threads.

• Defense and Military: In weapons systems, defense electronics, and military-grade vehicles.

• Electronics: Used in compact, lightweight devices where reliable fastener retention is required.

• Industrial Machinery: In pumps, valves, compressors, and gearboxes where threaded holes experience high stress.

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