Metal threaded inserts for wood allow you to assemble components to each other such as wood to wood and metal. But all inserts are not created equal. Have we found the best inserts yet? We think so, but you be the judge!
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Threaded inserts for wood have grown in popularity over recent years. Like many things that were once reserved for professional use, threaded inserts are now being used in the maker shop and by homeowners to make RTA (ready-to-assemble) or KD (knock-down) furniture, as well as adjustable jigs and fixtures.
These inserts have also become really popular for use with “live edge” slab furniture, where a finished thick slab of natural edge wood is attached to metal legs or supports, or even other wood components.
The inserts are a simple and brilliant invention. They are barrel-shaped, with cutting threads on the outside, and machine screw threading on the inside.
Depending on the size of the insert you are using, a specific diameter drill bit is used to drill a hole. Then the insert is screwed into the hole, and the driver device is extracted, leaving the insert in the wood. Then, a matching machine screw can be screwed into the insert, as the screw is passed through whatever is being affixed together.
While this is a general description of how these devices work, we think that one company (Rampa-Tec) offers a superior insert.
We’ve used and reviewed these types of inserts before - namely the E-Z Lok® brass product. You can see our review and installation guide here:
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Since that review, we’ve encountered inserts and machine bolt sets from Rampa Tec®. The product is German-engineered & manufactured, stocked & shipped across North America from a Toronto area warehouse.
The company has been around for a LONG time - it was founded in 1907, and is very well known in Europe for its quality inserts used both in wood and metal products manufacturing.
While Rampa Tec makes a wide variety of products, in this episode we are taking a look at the patented SKD330 style. This particular line has become very popular with companies and individuals making live-edge furniture. It’s a zinc-plated steel insert, available in both metric and imperial sizes.
So, what makes the SKD330 superior to other inserts?
For starters, it has 3 external threads (instead of the usual 1) that eliminate troublesome installation tilting & twisting. This means the inserts are perfectly straight every time.
Next, there is an internal hex shoulder to drive the insert using standard hex drives - either by hand or chucked in a cordless drill. Driving in the insert is sure with no slippage or damage.
Because there are three external threads all working together, the insert works exceptionally well in a variety of wood-based materials - softwood, hardwood, particle board, plywood, or MDF. With this superior holding power, no adhesive is needed to keep the insert in place. However, should the need arise, the insert can be removed readily using the correct hex driver.
Lastly, these inserts have a sealing collar that not only provides a clean stopping point, but the insert will countersink itself beautifully!
For M6 inserts, pre-drill with a 10-10.5 mm or closest imperial (13/32”) drill bit. For M8 inserts- pre-drill with a 12-12.5mm or closest imperial (1/2”). Make the depth of the hole about 2 mm or 3/32” deeper than the length of the insert. Always do a test in the same material to assure that the density of that material doesn’t affect installation.
Rampa Tec® offers pan, mushroom, and flathead bolts in a variety of finishes as well. If you are using imperial sizes, they offer only ¼-20 bolts at this time.
To get more information on where to buy Rampa's SKD330 fastener, visit:
INSERTS TYPE SKD330 (rampa.com)
There's more information at:
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If you want a great technical info sheet showing specifications of the different inserts, along with drill diameters and such, visit:
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Lastly, Rampa has a great animation video showing the SKD330 in action. It’s worth a watch! See it at:
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While these inserts are only available in bulk sizes, they are worth having a supply in the shop. While more expensive than single-thread brass inserts, they are superior and a very good value.
For 60 days after the premiere of this episode, Rampa will provide you with a 7% discount when you use the coupon code dirtfarmerjay23! The offer expires on March 7th, 2023.
Let us know what you think!
JUST DO IT YOURSELF!
