Installing Heli-Coil Screw Thread Inserts with a Power Tool – Blog | Mountz Torque Tips & Solutions

heli-coil insert installation power tool

Heli-Coil screw thread inserts are common component used for a variety of automotive, military, communication, industrial and aerospace assembly applications. When installed into a heli-coil tapped hole, a heli-coil insert provides permanent conventional internal screw threads that accommodate any standard fastener or bolt.

Using heli-coil inserts for parts that may require frequent maintenance is beneficial for maintaining the internal screw threads integrity. The inserts reduce the chances of stripping out the internal threads. Performing routine maintenance and repairing parts for automobiles, aircrafts, appliances, lamps or printing presses is tedious work. Often it requires screws or bolts to be untightened and retightened. Overtime, the repetition of the maintenance process can easily cause the threads to be worn out making it difficult to fasten parts back together. Installing heli-coil screw thread inserts will help make this process easier. There is a variety of insert types available to meet any threaded fastening needs and often available in both inch and metric options.

Installing a heli-coil insert into part can be done manually or with a power tool. For high volume production applications, using a power tool is essential. It cannot be any power tool either. A tool that provides precision torque control should be used for installing the heli-coil inserts.

Mountz offers a couple of power tool options for installing heli-coil screw thread inserts. The BFT and NFT power tool models are built for installing these inserts and designed for precision torque control. The tools feature the Swiss Maxon brushless motor technology and engineered for high production environments. These brushless screwdrivers ensure product quality, cost savings and a reduction in overall installation failures.

Screwdrivers with a brushless motor have an extremely long operating life and provide consistent reliable performance. The screwdriver requires less maintenance with no need for replacement of expendable parts (carbon brushes, rotor, switches and other contact points). Heat generated by the motor is reduced and the screwdriver performance is always at the maximum level. With almost no expendable parts and simple design, the brushless screwdriver life cycle is extended and it maintains a clean working environment.

The BFT and NFT electric screwdriver models feature an automatic shut-off clutch once the preset torque is achieved, which ensures accuracy and precision torque control. These installation tools feature the ability to set and adjust the speed, the rotation (number of turns), as well as program an auto reverse function. Mountz offers various models covering a torque range of 0.9 to 39 inch-pounds. The BFT and NFT models can also be used for light tapping and gauging applications.

The key benefits of using a power tool are for increasing production and improving accuracy and repeatability. Using the assembly tool in conjunction with a torque arm enhances the installation process.  The EZ-Glider torque arm is designed to improve production and quality control during the installation process. The effortless handling of the ergo arm provides comfortable tool operation and increased production. The Mountz torque arm prevents side load and cross threading, by securely clasping the electric screwdriver and keeping the tool in proper alignment. The torque arm helps ensure the heli-coil is inserted correctly every time.

Daily, weekly, monthly, an assembly operator performs hundreds and thousands of repetitive heli-coil  insert installations. After a while, the daily process will expose your operators to repetitive stress injuries, which can impact him or her anywhere from the neck down to the fingers. The results of work related injuries effect productivity, employee absenteeism, as well as costly workers’ compensation claims and litigation expenses. Making the workstation more ergonomic and protecting employees is a vital objective for any manufacturing organization.

Using a quality heli-coil insert installation power tool makes a safer world through accuracy and precision. Controlling torque is essential for companies to ensure their product’s quality, safety and reliability isn’t compromised. The failure of a three-cent fastener that isn’t properly tightened can lead to catastrophic or latent failures. Fasteners that are insufficiently fastened can vibrate loose and excessive torque can strip threaded fasteners.

Improve your installation process with a quality power tool.  Contact us with any questions you may have. We can help you make the right choice, every time.

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