Slotted self-tapPing Screw inserts are internal and external Threaded Inserts with axial slots. They can be screwed into pre-drilled holes to form high-strength internal threads through self-tapping. They combine the ease of screwing in "Slotted Cylindrical Head Screws" with the versatility of "Slotted Screws". No pre-tapping is required. They can quickly repair stripped threads or directly create wear-resistant threads in aluminum, plastic, and wood. They are widely used in automotive plastic parts, electronic housings, and ski bindings.

Wuxi Feisheng Hardware Products Co., Ltd. is located in the beautiful city of Wuxi, on the shores of Lake Taihu, within the Meicun Industrial Park of Wuxi Xinwu District.  It's just a 5-minute drive from the Wuxi East Expressway exit, situated in the heart of the Yangtze River Delta economic zone, a region blessed with exceptional natural and cultural resources. The company specializes in the research, development, production, sales, and service of Wire thread inserts, Self-tapping thread inserts, and related tools, and is currently one of the few manufacturers with three thread insert production lines.

Since its establishment, the company has been committed to meeting customers' actual needs and providing them with the highest quality thread inserts.  We adhere to a quality policy of continuous improvement, strictly following national, military, and aerospace standards, and have developed our own product testing standards and procedures.

To further improve product quality and ensure stability, the company continuously introduces advanced domestic and international technologies and equipment, achieving fully automated production processes. Throughout the entire production process, at predetermined intervals, multi-level testing is conducted using advanced high-precision measuring instruments. We firmly believe that a good product requires meticulous attention to detail at every stage, ensuring the performance and quality of each batch of thread inserts with a craftsman's spirit, providing customers with first-class products and continuously exceeding their expectations.

Through the continuous efforts of the Feisheng team, Feisheng thread inserts have been widely used in aerospace, high-speed rail, automobile manufacturing, power generation, machinery, 5G, and general machinery die casting. In particular, our company stands out in the new energy vehicle industry; our thread inserts are used in many electric vehicles on the road today. Our goal in the thread insert field is to become the leader in the Asian thread insert industry, a professional thread insert manufacturer, and an industry leader. We welcome new and old customers and friends to visit our factory for guidance and cooperation!

In 2003, it passed ISO9001:2000 international quality system certification

In 2018, it passed the ISO/TS16949 quality management system certification

Aviation system certification in 2021

Add:FengEr Road 38# Meichun Street XinWu District WuXi city  JiangSu Province

Fax: +86-510-83796863

Brand domestic sales: Ms. Yang  +86-13815109735

International Trade: Mr. Liu  +86-15961756595

Fastening system solution: Mr. Li  +86-13771186996

Website: www.wxfslt.com

Email: wxlikenai@163.com

Wechate：15961756595

In the world of assembly and manufacturing, the need to create durable, reusable threads in soft or fragile materials has long been a challenge. Threaded inserts have emerged as a solution, and among them, the Slotted Self-Tapping Screw Insert stands out for its ease of use, versatility, and ability to enhance the structural integrity of countless products. From automotive interiors to consumer electronics and furniture, these inserts play a critical role in ensuring that screws remain securely fastened, even in materials that would otherwise fail under repeated stress.  

At its core, a slotted Self-Tapping Screw Insert is a cylindrical component designed to be installed into a pre-drilled pilot hole in a host material (such as plastic, wood, or thin metal) to create a strong, permanent internal thread. Unlike traditional press-fit or heat-set inserts, this type features two key design elements: external self-tapping threads and longitudinal slots along its body.  

The external self-tapping threads are engineered to cut into the host material as the insert is driven in, eliminating the need for pre-tapping the hole. This simplifies the installation process and reduces assembly time. The longitudinal slots—usually 2 to 4 in number, running from the top of the insert to near the bottom—allow the insert to compress slightly during installation. This flexibility is crucial: it reduces the risk of cracking the host material (especially in soft plastics or brittle woods) and ensures a tight, secure fit that resists loosening under vibration or load.  

Internally, the insert features a standard thread (metric or imperial) that accepts a screw, and often a drive feature (like a slotted head or Hex Socket) to facilitate installation with a tool such as a screwdriver or Allen wrench.  

To understand why slotted self-tapping inserts are so effective, let’s break down their key design features and how they contribute to performance:  

1. Slotted Body  

The slots are not just a cosmetic detail—they are integral to the insert’s functionality. When the insert is driven into the pilot hole, the slots allow the external threads to bite into the host material while the insert’s body flexes. This flexibility distributes stress evenly across the host material, preventing localized cracking. For example, in a plastic dashboard component, the slots help the insert adapt to the plastic’s natural elasticity, ensuring a secure fit without damaging the part.  

2. Self-Tapping External Threads  

These threads are sharp and aggressive, designed to cut through the host material rather than relying on pre-formed threads. This feature is particularly useful in materials where pre-tapping is difficult or impossible (like thin metal sheets or composite materials). The self-tapping action creates a mechanical lock between the insert and the host, which is far stronger than a press-fit connection.  

3. Material Options  

Slotted self-tapping inserts are available in a range of materials to suit different applications:  

Steel: Zinc-plated steel is a common choice for general-purpose applications, offering strength and corrosion resistance.  

Stainless Steel: Ideal for outdoor or wet environments (like marine equipment or garden furniture) due to its superior rust resistance.  

Brass: Used in electrical applications (brass is a good conductor) and for its non-magnetic properties, as well as corrosion resistance.  

Aluminum: Lightweight and corrosion-resistant, making it suitable for aerospace or automotive applications where weight reduction is a priority.  

4. Headed vs. Headless Designs  

Headed inserts have a flange at one end that acts as a stop, preventing the insert from being driven too deep into the host material. This is useful for applications where a flush surface is not required, or where the flange provides additional stability. Headless inserts, on the other hand, are designed to sit flush with the host material’s surface, making them ideal for aesthetic applications (like furniture or consumer electronics) where a clean look is important.  

Installing a slotted self-tapping insert is straightforward, but following the correct steps is essential to ensure optimal performance:  

Step 1: Select the Right Insert and Pilot Hole Size  

First, choose an insert that matches the internal thread size of the screw you plan to use, and the host material’s properties. Manufacturers provide detailed specifications, including the recommended pilot hole diameter. Using the wrong pilot hole size is a common mistake—too small, and you risk cracking the host material; too large, and the insert will not grip securely.  

Step 2: Drill the Pilot Hole  

Using a drill bit of the specified diameter, drill a pilot hole to a depth slightly greater than the insert’s length. This prevents the insert from bottoming out during installation, which could damage the host material or the insert.  

Step 3: Drive the Insert  

Using a tool that fits the insert’s drive feature (e.g., a slotted screwdriver for a slotted insert), align the insert with the pilot hole and apply steady, even torque. The self-tapping threads will cut into the host material, and the slots will allow the insert to flex and create a tight fit. Be careful not to over-torque—this can damage the host material or strip the insert’s threads.  

Step 4: Verify the Installation  

After installation, check that the insert is seated correctly (flush for headless inserts, or the flange is in contact with the surface for headed inserts). Test the internal thread by screwing in the desired fastener to ensure it fits smoothly and securely.  

Slotted self-tapping inserts are used in almost every industry where strong, reusable threads are needed. Here are some key applications:  

In automotive manufacturing, these inserts are widely used in plastic components like interior panels, door handles, and dashboard parts. For example, a plastic door panel might use an insert to mount a speaker—this ensures that the speaker’s screws do not strip the plastic threads over time, even with repeated removal for maintenance.  

In devices like laptops, smartphones, and printers, slotted self-tapping inserts are used to secure components like batteries, motherboards, and casings. For instance, a laptop’s plastic base might use these inserts to hold the screws that attach the hard drive—this prevents the screws from pulling out when the hard drive is replaced.  

Wooden furniture often relies on these inserts to create durable threads. For example, a wooden cabinet door might use a brass insert to attach the hinge—this ensures that the hinge remains securely fastened, even with frequent opening and closing.  

In aerospace applications, lightweight materials like aluminum and composites require inserts that can handle high loads without adding weight. Slotted self-tapping inserts made from aluminum or titanium are ideal here—they provide strong threads while keeping the overall weight of the component low.  

In medical equipment like surgical tools and diagnostic devices, these inserts are used in plastic or metal housings. For example, a plastic casing for a blood glucose monitor might use stainless steel inserts to hold the screws that keep the device closed—this ensures the device remains sterile and secure.  

Slotted self-tapping inserts offer several advantages over other types of inserts:  

1. Ease of Installation: No pre-tapping required, which saves time and reduces assembly costs.  

2. Versatility: Can be used in a wide range of materials (plastic, wood, metal, composites).  

3. Strong Grip: The self-tapping threads and slotted design create a tight, vibration-resistant fit.  

4. Reusability: The internal thread can be used repeatedly without stripping, making it ideal for components that require frequent disassembly.  

5. Cost-Effective: Compared to heat-set or press-fit inserts, these are often cheaper and easier to install, making them a popular choice for mass production.  

The future of slotted self-tapping inserts is focused on miniaturization, sustainability, and smart technology:  

Miniaturization: As devices become smaller (like wearables and micro-electronics), inserts are being designed in tiny sizes to fit into compact components.  

Sustainability: Manufacturers are developing inserts made from recycled materials (e.g., recycled steel) to reduce environmental impact.  

Smart Inserts: Inserts with integrated sensors are being developed to monitor thread tightness and detect damage, which is useful in critical applications like aerospace and automotive.  

Slotted self-Tapping screw inserts are a small but essential component in modern manufacturing. Their unique design—combining self-tapping threads and slotted bodies—solves the problem of weak threads in soft or fragile materials, enhancing the durability and reliability of countless products. Whether in a car’s dashboard, a laptop’s casing, or a wooden cabinet, these inserts play a crucial role in ensuring that components remain securely fastened, even under repeated stress. As technology advances, we can expect to see even more innovative uses for these versatile inserts, making them an integral part of manufacturing for years to come.