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Top 5 Uses of Tube Inserts
10-11-2017
Tube Inserts are a product that we come across regularly inside thousands of different industries for a vast array of different uses, from traditional ones all the way to some of the more obscure. In most cases these type of inserts can be used without anyone ever knowing thanks to their design and flush fitting. But why use these kind of Inserts over some of the more common solutions that are available, and what are some of their top uses?
Threaded Insert in use
Adjustable Foot screwed into a Threaded Insert
What are Tube Inserts?
Tube inserts are a popular type of insert/fitting that are designed to fit perfectly in to a hollow tube or pipe, they are most commonly ribbed to provide a strong fitting to the inside of the tube and to prevent them from easily falling or being knocked out. Thanks to their ribbed design they are also relatively easy to fit, requiring just a tap by hand or hammer once lined up with the tube/pipe.
They can be found in many different shapes, sizes and materials to suit your specific application. However some of the most popular include plastic inserts which are regularly found in round, square, rectangular and oval variants. Other less common types of insert include threaded, spring threaded, chromed and domed, each having their own unique set of traits such as allowing a threaded component to be screwed straight inside.
What are the main uses of Tube Inserts?
Now we know a bit more about what these inserts are it may be useful to know what it is they can be used for, below we have put together 5 of some of the most frequent uses that we’ve seen them used for over the years.
1. To provide an aesthetic finish to a hollow tube or pipe – One of the top uses for these Inserts is to finish off a tube or pipe as it can often add the finishing touch required to help it blend in or stand out. Thanks to the many different styles available, there are actually many different options when it comes to aesthetically finishing a tube. The most popular including chrome finished and textured which can be found in a number of different shapes (Round, Rectangular, Oval & Square) and sizes.
2. To protect the inside of a tube from weathering and general damage – As well as providing an aesthetic finish, tube inserts are regularly employed as a cost effective solution for the protection of the internal section of the tube, post or pipe. This goes a long way to prevent damage over time from weathering, tampering or general wear and tear.
3. To provide a practical use – As a versatile product these inserts are also widely used as replacement feet for chairs and furniture with tubular legs, providing an excellent level of grip and stability at a low cost. Some of the most commonly found Inserts that are used with chairs are our School Chair feet inserts, these have been specifically designed to fit onto the inside of a chair leg as a long-term solution and are also regularly sought after as replacements to prevent the scratching of floors.
4. To provide a base that can be used to attach external threaded components – This is another common, yet overlooked use of tube inserts as there are multiple variants that are specifically designed to allow for the attachment of external components to the tube or pipe. External components can include anything with a male thread, a popular pairing with these inserts are our adjustable feet as they simply screw into place once fitted. These are regularly referred to as Threaded inserts and can be found in a range of materials (Metal & Plastic) and shapes to suit your specific use.
5. To add structural integrity to a tube or pipe – Adding structural integrity to a tube or pipe can be essential for a long-term solution as these inserts can help to fortify the end, preventing it from easily becoming damaged or broken. Although a bit less common than most of the other uses listed here, it is still an excellent use for them as a cost effective component.
Variations of Tube InsertsPlastic tube inserts category image
Now that you have a better idea of the top uses for tube inserts it is important to know what there is on offer, enabling you to choose the best fit for your specific project or use. These types of inserts come mainly in the following types:
Plastic – Round, Square, Oval & Rect. – Chromed, Domed, Thin head
Metal – Round, Square & Rectangular
Threaded – Round, Square & Rect. – Heavy Duty, Standard, Metal
Spring Threaded – Round & Square – Tube ConnectorsThreaded Spring inserts cat
Alternatively, why not check out our full range of Tube Inserts and get an idea of the full scope of products that we have to offer.
For all quick quotes or questions regarding compatibility/uses please feel free to speak to one of our advisors here on 01233 713581.
For more information on Top 5 Uses of Tube Inserts talk to Vital Parts Ltd
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