New press-in inserts for casting and soft metals 16 February 2024

The PEM® 300 series stainless steel CastSert™ inserts, a labour saving solution to create strong, durable metal threads for manufacturers working with soft metals and die-cast alloys – has been launched by PEM®, a leading brand of PennEngineering®. 

According to the company, its new inserts are designed for quick, reliable and cost-effective installations – offering a simple ‘press-in’ technique to transform the fixing durable threads into casted materials. “Unlike helical inserts, which require panel preparation, CastSert™ inserts are installed by simply pressing into an ‘as-cast’, or drilled hole, including with low draft angles,” reports PEM®.

Other key features of the new solution, include the inserts being engineered for flush installation using a flat punch and anvil, whether in blind holes or thru-holes, with this rapid installation method outpacing traditional methods by approximately 80%, according to PEM®.

The inserts have a pilot for rapid seating and self-alignment, ensuring accuracy and reliability, and their symmetric design enables an auto-feed capability – streamlining any production processes. “By using the new inserts substantial cost savings compared to helical inserts or thread tapping methods can be realised.”

Jay McKenna, global technical marketing manager at PennEngineering®, reiterated the new inserts’ benefits – creating robust threads in soft metals and die-cast alloys and added: “With their quick and efficient installation process, these inserts provide a significant advantage in terms of both time and cost savings.”  

Will Lowry Content Director t: +44 (0) 1727 743 888

Will joined Fastener + Fixing Magazine in 2007 and over the last 12 years has experienced every facet of the fastener sector – interviewing key figures within the industry and visiting leading companies and exhibitions around the globe. Will manages the content strategy across all platforms and is the guardian for the high editorial standards that the brand is renowned.