Even stronger Heat-Set Brass inserting method for 3D prints? Let's test it!

Summary

This video explores different methods for inserting and testing the strength of threaded inserts in 3D prints. The host compares three techniques: pressing the insert against a desk, using a bolt to press it further in, and pressing below the surface with a soldering iron. Each method is tested for pull-out force, with results showing all methods are strong, with the soldering iron method being the most effective. The video also discusses torque testing and the implications of insert strength for various applications. The host concludes with an exploration of thread-cutting methods for single-use scenarios.

Takeaways

• 😀 The video explores methods for inserting threaded inserts into materials like plastic or wood and compares their effectiveness in creating strong connections.
• 😀 M6 bolts were used in the experiment, and the test involves different insertion methods, including pressing inserts against a desk, using a special bolt tool, and pressing with a soldering iron.
• 😀 The goal is to evaluate the strength of the insert-bolt connection by measuring pull-out loads and determining the most effective method for insertion.
• 😀 Three methods were tested: 1) pressing the insert against a desk, 2) pressing with a special bolt tool, and 3) using a soldering iron to press the insert below the surface.
• 😀 The results show that all three methods provide strong connections, with pull-out loads ranging from 140-150 kg for M3 bolts.
• 😀 For applications where the insert is aligned with the attached object, the pull-out load will be the primary point of failure, regardless of insertion method.
• 😀 The torque required to pull out an insert can be lower than expected, with the standard torque for M3 bolts being around 1 Nm, which can pull out the insert in certain conditions.
• 😀 The test highlights that while the pull-out force is high, the torque needed to remove the insert is quite low, which could pose a risk in applications where torque is applied to the connection.
• 😀 The video also includes bonus tests using a tap tool to cut threads into printed holes, but this method can only be used once, as the threads are damaged upon removal.
• 😀 Everson, the collaborator in the video, emphasizes the importance of testing and iterating on these methods, suggesting that further tests are needed to explore different insert sizes and their pull-out torques.

Q & A

What is the main purpose of this video?

The video focuses on testing different methods for inserting threaded inserts into 3D printed objects, comparing the strength and reliability of each method based on pull-out load and torque.

What are the three methods tested for inserting threaded inserts?

The three methods tested are: 1) Pressing the insert against the desk, 2) Using a secret tool (pressing the insert with a bolt), and 3) Pressing with a soldering iron to slightly below the surface.

Which method was found to be the strongest in terms of pull-out load?

The method that involved pressing the insert with the soldering iron slightly below the surface resulted in the strongest pull-out load, averaging around 147 kg.

What role does the M5 bolt play in the experiment?

The M5 bolt is used to modify the M6 bolt by sanding the head to ensure it fits the test setup and to measure the forces required to pull out the threaded insert.

What material is used for the 3D printed test objects?

The test objects are printed with Polymaker PLA Pro in red color and Bambu Lab's marble PLA.

What was the initial outcome when testing the M3 eyebolt for pull-out strength?

The M3 eyebolt deformed at approximately 30-35 kg of force, which was deemed too weak for the intended application.

How does the application of torque affect the strength of the threaded inserts?

The application of torque can cause the threaded insert to be pulled out if there is a gap between the insert and the attached object. The tests measured the torque required to pull out the insert, revealing that even small torques (around 0.8-1.0 Nm) can cause the insert to pull out if the object isn't aligned directly above the surface.

What conclusion can be drawn about the strength of the threaded insert methods tested?

All three methods resulted in strong connections with pulling loads between 140-150 kg, which is significantly strong for M3 bolts. However, the torque required to pull out the insert was surprisingly low, highlighting potential concerns when torque is applied without an object above the insert.

Why is the method of pressing the insert against the desk considered important?

Pressing the insert against the desk helps flatten the insert flush with the surface, ensuring better alignment and reducing the chance of pull-out when torque is applied, especially when there is an object above the insert.

What was the issue with using the method of cutting threads into the printed hole with a tap tool?

While using a tap tool to cut threads into a printed hole resulted in a torque of around 1 Nm, this method can only be used once. Repeated use would damage the threads, weakening the connection.