Helicoils or coil threads are one of the most commonly used fasteners in the engineering industry. They are basically a series of tightly wound coils that form a threaded insert that is capable of providing a snug fit with the mating part. In its simplest form, a helical coil is a system of helical grooves that are machined into a helix shape around a solid-state material. They can be made of a variety of materials such as stainless steel, bronze, brass, aluminum, and plastic.
Helicoils provide a higher level of threaded engagement than other fasteners, making them an ideal choice for high-load applications. They are often used to provide a robust, reliable connection between two components that must interact in an extremely high load, for example between a threaded rod and a threaded plate. They are also often used to provide an anchor point for a bolted assembly, for example between a plate and a threaded hole.
The main advantage of using helicoil fasteners is their resilience. Helicoils are able to withstand a much higher level of tension and torque than other fasteners, making them highly reliable and less prone to loosening over time. This makes them ideal for use in applications that require long-term reliability. Additionally, they provide a secure, vibration-resistant connection between two parts and are often used to reduce the number of bolts required in a connection point.
Helicoils are also relatively easy to install. Most of the time, they can be installed using a ratchet or drill, however special tools may be required in some cases. Installation takes a relatively short amount of time, and with proper tools, it can even be accomplished with a single worker. Furthermore, the threaded inserts come in a variety of sizes, making them highly “scalable” so they can be used in large or small projects.
While helicoils are undoubtedly a very versatile and reliable fastening option, they do have a few drawbacks. They can sometimes be expensive due to their customised nature and the materials used, and also require specialised tools for installation. Additionally, they can sometimes be difficult to remove, so careful attention must be paid when installing them in order to prevent the need for costly repairs in the future.
In conclusion, helicoils are one of the most reliable and versatile fastening solutions available, and are highly recommended for use in high-load applications. They offer a secure and vibration-resistant connection, require little installation time, and provide a tighter fit than conventional threaded fasteners. However, they can be expensive and require specialist tools, so care should be taken when planning and executing an assembly with helicoils.
